The brilliant yellow leaves on Colorado's aspens are truly starting to pop, and many drivers are headed west this weekend in search of more gold.
The Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding both residents and visitors that mountain roads and passes will likely see more traffic over the next few weekends. In some places, drivers can pull off on the sides of the road to take pictures, so anybody passing through those areas is asked to keep an extra sharp eye out for people along the roadway and to watch out for each other. Anybody who pulls off the side of the road is encouraged to find a safe and designated place to park.
In addition, drivers should be prepared to slow down in areas that are heavily visited during this time of year, including popular spots such as Guanella Pass and Kenosha Pass.
State health guidelines still apply in the mountains, CDOT said. This includes staying six feet away from other people, unless it's unsafe to do so, and wearing a face mask when around others. If possible, travelers should fill up on water, food and gas around their home so they do not have to stop along the way, CDOT said.
To read all the guidelines for outdoor recreation, click here.
In addition to the extra precautions with COVID-19, CDOT is cautioning drivers that many construction zones are set up around the state. While most of these projects shut down over the weekends, some contractors may take advantage of favorable weather to continue the work on Saturdays.
Check out Denver7's full guide of the best places to see the changing aspens from the trail, road or train. You'll also find Denver7 viewer's photos and destination recommendations in the story.