Colorado's fall colors could be duller this year. Here's why.

Colorado's annual burst of brilliant fall color may look a little different this year, and ongoing drought conditions are largely to blame. While scattered storms brought some much-needed rainfall to parts of the state this past week, it hasn't been enough to significantly ease the overall drought. According to the latest data, just over 7% of Colorado remains in exceptional drought -- the most severe classification -- with Garfield, Rio Blanco, Mesa, Moffat, and Delta counties experiencing the worst conditions.

Experts say drought-stressed trees often shift their energy away from producing vibrant pigments and toward basic survival. That means leaves may change earlier, drop faster, or turn more brown than gold -- especially in areas hit hardest by prolonged dry conditions.  

"Drought puts trees under significant stress," said Dan West, a forest entomologist with the Colorado State Forest Service. "When that happens, trees may shut down earlier than usual, leading to a shorter, less colorful fall season."  

Planning a Fall Foliage Trip? 

If you're hoping to catch some color this fall, West recommends:

• Heading higher into the mountains, where trees may be less stressed by drought.

• Going earlier in the season, as some trees may peak sooner than usual.

"If you are looking for Aspens, I  think the Front Range will be your best bet because as you go further west and further south the drought conditions are worse," said West.