Why Winter in Twin Lakes Is Double the Fun
February 21, 2024This year, come celebrate TWIN-ter in Twin Lakes, Colorado! This tiny historic village has outsized views of Colorado’s largest glacial lakes. The state’s tallest peak, Mt. Elbert, towers overhead. And you’ll get a true small-town feel in Twin Lakes, which claims only 30 full-time residents—counting dogs and cats.
Weather is often a bit warmer in Twin Lakes than in nearby Leadville, which is North America’s highest-elevation city. This 1,000’ difference means that you often can experience both deep snow and warm sunshine, all within half an hour’s drive.
Learn why winter is double the fun in Twin Lakes!
Photo: @ScottAndersonPhoto
Twin Lakes
Two of Colorado’s largest and most picturesque glacial lakes are tucked against some of the Centennial State’s highest peaks. In winter, miles of snowy mountains rise behind frozen lakes. Come for sunset, and catch the rosy glow behind all that snow.
Twin Peaks
While you’re there, admire the view of Twin Peaks, just southwest of the village. It’s just one of many frosted summits that will surround your days in the village.
Twin Lakes Ice Fishing
Twin Lakes is a magnet for ice fishers all winter long. Each year, people catch huge fish there, such as mackinaw weighing nearly 18 pounds!
Forebay Reservoir sometimes has areas of open water for winter fishing. The reservoir is up County Road 24 (different from the main U.S. Highway 24), just northeast of Twin Lakes.
Photo: @ScottAndersonPhoto
Twin Long-Haul Trails
Both the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail wind past Twin Lakes. Twin Lakes is now an official gateway community of the CDT! In most of the area, the two trails run together as a single trail. Depending on recent weather, they can be covered in deep snow perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or fat biking. In warmer spells, portions along the Twin Lakes shore can be dry enough for hiking. Rent snowshoes and bikes at SUP and Cycle in Twin Lakes village!
Looking for an easy excursion? Explore the trail segment that wraps around the eastern end of Twin Lakes. Enjoy open views with sunshine, or head through the forest to the ghost resort of Interlaken.
For a snowier, more-challenging path, head north along the trails from the Twin Lakes area. You’ll pass through aspen groves and pine forests—a true winter wonderland. Occasional views of the surrounding peaks are breathtaking.
Additional trails and backcountry skiing are available west of Twin Lakes on Highway 82, to the closure gate for Independence Pass. The South Fork of Lake Creek is a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing just west of Twin Lakes Village.
Make sure you check the mountain weather forecast and Colorado avalanche forecast, and know how to stay safe, before venturing into the backcountry in winter.
Photo: Twin Lakes Inn
Twin Lakes Inn & Saloon
The historic Twin Lakes Inn & Saloon is open on winter weekends. Come dine and stay at this former stagecoach stop.
The inn’s excellent restaurant will be open for dinner on Friday and Saturday and brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Dinners feature delicious entrees like grilled ribeye with smashed potatoes and grilled asparagus with red-eye cream gravy. Brunch has warm soups, fresh salads, burgers, and breakfast specialties like French toast and eggs Benedict. Rooms are uniquely decorated, and the optional on-site massage is great for a winter’s day.
Photo: @RoadhouseTwinLakes
Roadhouse Twin Lakes
Stop by Roadhouse Twin Lakes for tasty treats–specialty coffees and pastries!
Tenderfoot at Twin Lakes
While you’re in town, be sure to visit Tenderfoot at Twin Lakes, open in the heart of Twin Lakes Village all year long! Find locally raised meats, pastas, veggies and fruits, coffee, tea, salsa, jelly, and more.
Photo: @StayTwinLakes
Cozy Cabins and Lodge
The Mt. Elbert Lodge, which offers B&B rooms in the main lodge as well as cabins, is open all winter. Amenities include an outdoor hot tub, terry robes, fire pits, decks with views of mountains and wildlife, and stargazing. WinMar Cabins and Stay Twin Lakes cabins also offer cozy accommodations for your mountain winter getaway.
Check out great places to stay in Twin Lakes, Colorado. Whether you pick the inn, the lodge, or one of our many vacation homes and cabins, you’ll be doubly glad you chose to experience TWIN-ter this year!
