More Snow, Fewer People: Your Guide to a Peaceful (and Safe) Backcountry Visit to Leadville & Twin Lakes

November 12, 2024

If you head into the Colorado backcountry this winter, please be sure you’re prepared. Check out the resources below before you enter the backcountry. And have a fun and safe trip!

STAYING SAFE IN THE BACKCOUNTRY IN WINTER

If you venture into the backcountry this winter, please do so safely. We can help! The Colorado Tourism Office has put together an extensive Colorado Backcountry Winter Safety Toolkit. Check it out to:

1) BE BACKCOUNTRY SMART

Before you hit the trails, check out this overview of how to be backcountry smart.

2) FIND GUIDES, OUTFITTERS & TRAINING

Find winter outfitters in Leadville/Twin Lakes for tours and equipment rentals. You can also learn to ski and snowboard, Nordic ski, and snowshoe at Leadville-Twin Lakes.

3) PREPARE FOR TRAVEL IN AVALANCHE COUNTRY

Before you head out, pull up the daily avalanche forecast from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Please keep in mind that these forecasts cover a large area, and Colorado has many microclimates. Please watch carefully for avalanche conditions as you travel your route.

4) TAKE A WINTER BACKCOUNTRY SAFETY CLASS.

Learn about avalanches and how to mitigate risk with these winter safety courses and resources:

Basic Info

Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) Basic Avalanche Safety Info

Colorado Mountain School Free Avalanche Awareness Online

Avalanche Safety Courses

American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Avalanche Courses

CAIC Avalanche Courses

Colorado Mountain Club Courses

Colorado Adventure Guides Avalanche Courses and Education

Silverton Avalanche School

Courses in Colorado and Other States

American Avalanche Association-endorsed Trainers, by State

5) FIND RESOURCES BY SPORT

Find how-to and safety resources by sport, from snowshoeing and skinning to winter wildlife viewing.

Photo: @vntrbirds

6) LEAVE NO TRACE IN WINTER

Learn how you can leave no trace while enjoying backcountry snowsports.

7) DONATE TO COLORADO SEARCH & RESCUE

When you donate to Lake County Search & Rescue, you help those who help others.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

We want you to have an amazing trip! Please be sure you know how to play it safe in Colorado’s backcountry. Approach our majestic mountains with respect. And have a safe and unforgettable time!

Featured photo: @bvmountainadventures

10 Winter Adventures

DISCOVER 10 WAYS TO HAVE FUN AT THE TOP OF THE ROCKIES! Enter a winter wonderland with adventures for all ages and ability levels. Offering guaranteed snow, a charming historic […]

Cozy on Another Level: Winter Adventures in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado

Looking for a winter that feels like winter? Something straight out of a Hallmark movie? At 10,152 feet, Leadville and Twin Lakes deliver just that, guaranteed snow, charming historic towns, […]

Winter Driving Safety: Getting to Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado

Winter transforms Leadville and Twin Lakes into a snow-covered wonderland – perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy mountain getaways. While our roads are open and maintained year-round, winter weather can […]

Holiday Shopping From A-Z In Leadville And Twin Lakes

Discover the magic of holiday shopping in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! From locally made art and cozy clothing to outdoor gear, gifts, and delicious treats, you’ll find something special […]

Your Guide to Keep Running Strong All Winter Long in Leadville

The first hint of winter in Leadville usually appears in September, but that doesn’t mean the end of the running season. As Leadville runners often say, “there’s no bad weather, […]

Altitude Safety Tips for Visiting Leadville & Twin Lakes

At 10,152 feet above sea level, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America. Surrounded by stunning 14,000-foot peaks and the crystal-clear waters of Twin Lakes, the beauty here […]

The JOMO in Leadville and Twin Lakes: Slow Down and Savor the Simple Joys

As more travelers embrace the art of slow travel, Leadville and Twin Lakes deliver the essence of JOMO—the Joy of Missing Out. Here, it’s not about what you skip, but […]

Ghosts Of Leadville, Colorado

In the ghostly spirit of Halloween, check out these stories of past Leadville souls. Many still make their presence known in this Colorado mining town. They float and creak in […]

Beyond the Leaves – A Rainbow of Colors Along the Colorado Trail

September in Leadville and Twin Lakes offers one of nature’s most spectacular palettes. As summer showers give way to morning frosts, the mountains transform into a vibrant display that draws […]