As leaf-peeping kicks into high gear, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds residents to “peep responsibly” and remember trail etiquette while exploring the state’s scenic trails.

“It’s one of the busiest times of year at our park, as we head into peak ‘Peeping Season,’” said Todd Farrow, park manager at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.

“We ask that people plan ahead, be patient and understand that some parking areas will fill up quickly and that you may need to find another spot to explore.”

Colorado Parks and Wildlife offered the following tips for those seeking autumn’s gold rush:

• Know before you go: Do some research before heading out to the the trails to avoid potential disappointment. If a parking lot is full, move on. Have an alternate route in mind.
• Stick to trails: Help natural areas stay natural by staying on designated trails. Taking shortcuts or walking on trails closed for maintenance, vegetation projects or wildlife reasons will cause harm.
• Trash your trash: Throw away litter, dog waste, peels and cores in a garbage or recycling bin — or pack it out until you can find one.
• Leave it as you find it: Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them. Carving or hacking plants and trees might kill or disfigure them.
• Keep wildlife wild: Never feed wild animals. Feeding them human food alters natural behaviors and can make them sick or dependent. Harassing wild animals can increase the chance of an animal attacking or charging a person.
• Share our trails and parks: Be considerate when passing others on trails and yield to the uphill hiker and biker. Remember to bring face coverings and hand sanitizer and try to move to single file or take time to leave six feet of space between hikers, if possible. Use new or lesser-known trails to avoid crowds.

“We want everyone to have a great time experiencing the colors and the natural resources our whole state has to offer,” Farrow said.

“No matter where you plan to peep, be respectful of those resources, the staff helping you have a great experience, and your fellow recreationists out searching for Colorado gold.”