With little to no rain over the summer and low snowfall last winter, the fall colors in Colorado have started early. Although the Indian Peaks area isn't noted for the aspens changing each fall, the ground color is always beautiful this time of year and the scenery is tough to beat. Plus, with it only being 45 minutes from the house, it's my favorite go-to area for a quick hike. We did about 5-6 miles this morning before the "crowds" showed up, hiking to Mitchell Lake and above it on Audobon Ridge. The air was nice and crisp and it was a great departure from the 80+ degree temps in town.