What’s the latest in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado? Read our blog to find out!
Summer's biggest events have returned to Leadville and Twin Lakes! Here are five ways to find summer fun and genuine mountain culture at the Top of the Rockies. 1) Experience Mining Heritage at Leadville Boom Days Leadville Boom Days, Aug. 5-7, is a three-day celebration of this mining town’s 1880s silver rush heritage. The festival celebrates the Old West with burro ...
In Leadville and Twin Lakes, most summer is in full swing! Here are a few of the many fun things to do. 📷: @shel8y 1) Visit Twin Lakes Check out cool local businesses in Twin Lakes village. Stop by the Red Rooster Visitor Center for ideas of things to do. The scenic byway to Independence Pass, Hwy. 82 from Twin Lakes ...
Love Leadville and Twin Lakes? You can help preserve its majestic natural beauty for years to come! We’ve shared our favorite "top of the Rockies" sustainable travel tips here, because the actions that are good for our lakes and forests can also give you a more rewarding time in the great outdoors! Follow these tips for a fun and safe visit—and ...
Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, are known for their late 1800s Silver Rush riches and colorful characters. Did you know that many women played a role in the stories? You can visit local sites and connect with their stories. Today, you can also find many local women running unique, thriving businesses and holding local leadership roles. Let's meet them! Women Making ...
If you’re looking for St. Patrick’s Day fun in Leadville, Colorado, check out these happenings: St. Patrick's Day, Thursday, March 17 Ski Cooper: Spend the day skiing or riding Cooper’s slopes. Take a run through family friendly Leprechaun Lane, new this season! Can you find all six of the wooden shamrocks? They were made by Leadville local and Cooper board member ...
The backcountry near Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, is amazing in winter. But it's best if you're prepared. Because 74% of the land in Lake County is U.S. Forest Service land, here is some insight from the people who know it best—friendly rangers with the Leadville Ranger District. Their tips will help you make the most of your trip and ...
There's plenty of romantic fun in winter in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! Check out these ideas for snowy fun, yurt adventures, sweet treats and flowers, and cozy places to dine and stay. Thinking long term? You can even hold your wedding here! 📷: Cover photo, @freightleadville 📷: @lavidaadventures Play in the Snow Together Play in fresh winter snow at Leadville ...
From biking on snow to Nordic skiing to cheering ski joring, you’ll find fantastic winter events in Leadville, Colorado. Mark your 2022 calendar for these winter favorites! 📸: Mark LaRowe Photography Leadville Ski Joring & Winter Sports Leadville Ski Joring and Crystal Carnival Weekend March 4-6, 2022 Downtown Leadville Cost: Free for Leadville Ski Joring; registration for some additional events Cheer ...
Looking for a last-minute holiday escape? Head to Leadville and Twin Lakes, the top of the Rockies! Here are seven ideas for spectacular holidays. 📷: Fat biking by @skc1025 1) Hop Aboard the Holiday Express This year for the first time, the Leadville Railroad is extending its season into winter and offering a holiday lights train ride. Travel through the snowy ...
This 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, 14,433’ Mt. Elbert, towers overhead. And you’ll get a true small-town feel in Twin Lakes, which claims only 23 full-time residents—counting dogs. Weather is often a bit warmer in Twin Lakes than in nearby Leadville, which ...
For Native American Heritage Month in November, we'd like to take you a step in time back from the Silver Rush history for which Leadville and Twin Lakes is known, to honor the original inhabitants of the land. The Leadville Herald Democrat has written a thought-provoking series on Colorado’s Indigenous people, the effect that European settlers and mining had on them, ...
Experience winter on another level at the top of the Rockies in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. This itinerary is for people who love to get outside and try new things. Find outdoor adventure on uncrowded, groomed winter trails where the snow comes early and stays late. You'll find a variety of lodging options and affordable family-friendly activities including skiing, snowmobile ...
Open through April 17, 2022! For a ski “resort” without the crowds and pretense, visit Ski Cooper! Enjoy authentic Colorado skiing without lift lines, high prices, high-rise condos, or hard man-made “snow.” Cooper boasts wide-open spaces in a family-friendly and affordable environment. Buy your pass today! What’s New at Ski Cooper in 2022 Welcome these new amenities for the 2021-22 ...
If you head into the Colorado backcountry this winter, please be sure you’re prepared. Did you know that search and rescue calls at Leadville and Twin Lakes have risen sharply in the past two years? And that many are from visitors? Check out the resources below before you enter the backcountry. Take the Colorado Backcountry Winter Safety Pledge. And have a ...
Help Leadville win 2021 Best Historic Small Town. We've been nominated for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Award! Please vote daily until Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. The 10 towns with the most votes will win. Discover Our History It's no surprise Leadville was included as a candidate. Leadville, a Victorian-era mining town and home of the unsinkable Molly Brown, offers ...
If you’re seeking winter adventures, you’ll find treasures at Leadville and Twin Lakes. Discover 10 ways to have fun at the top of the Rockies! If you're headed into the wilderness, be sure to check our Colorado Backcountry Winter Safety page, and know before you go! (📷: @speters86 / Instagram) 1) Dogsled Go dogsledding! Let happy huskies pull you past ...
With many new businesses opening in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, local entrepreneurs are showing their grit. Despite the pandemic, new shops and services have launched and new owners have put new twists on long-standing local businesses. Originally published in the spring, this list continues to grow. See what’s new in town since your last visit! You’ll get a warm welcome ...
We are truly glad that visitors are excited about our historic mining structures—we are too! We welcome you to visit and marvel at them. But please, take only pictures and leave our last few Wild West structures untouched. Here’s why. Stay Safe These structures are approximately 140 years old, and they can be dangerous. Timbers that old can break unexpectedly, causing ...
Leaves are changing color in Leadville, Colorado, with gold on the mountains. Make sure you catch the fall colors in the mountains this year! Here are 7 sweet spots where you can see them: 1) Scenic Drive 1: Twin Lakes and Independence Pass Bright yellow aspen light up the mountainsides behind Twin Lakes, large blue glacial lakes. Mt. Elbert and Mt. ...
In honor of National Dog Day, we'd like to share these photos of pups enjoying their time in Leadville & Twin Lakes, Colorado. Come see us and bring your furry friend! Take your doggo on a hike, to Twin Lakes or Turquoise Lake, on a Leadville Railroad ride, and much more! (Pup on train: 📷: @best.buddy.photography ...
Leaves change first in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. At elevations around 10,000’, the aspen usually peak mid- to late September, surrounding scenic drives, hikes, bike rides, and train rides with golden leaves. Here are some of our favorite reasons to visit Leadville and Twin Lakes this fall! 📷: @browneyedgirlsnaps 1. National Scenic and Historic Byway – Autumn Roads All roads ...
Have a great end-of-summer experience at Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. Everything is reopened in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! Here's a quick roundup of things you may have missed last year--and can still catch this summer--here at the top of the Rockies. Museums To round out your vacation, or catch some culture on a rainy afternoon, check out Leadville’s many ...
Come to Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, and discover two genuine and historic mountain towns. Off the beaten path and full of rich history, they give a glimpse into the Colorado of days gone by. Explore the many things to do! Visit the Museums Tour these museums to learn more about mining and Leadville's intriguing history: Healy House Museum and Dexter ...
This summer, discover the many outdoor adventures waiting in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. Enjoy the highest outdoors fun at the top of the Rockies! Zipline Soar high above the Arkansas River valley with views of Colorado’s highest peaks. It’s the only place in the world you can zipline across a train! Bike Go biking! Explore the family-friendly Mineral Belt Trail, a ...
Ready for a night under the stars? This guide to camping in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, can help you make the most of your trip. Where to Camp >>Campgrounds: Explore the campgrounds near Leadville and Twin Lakes, Some are by reservation only, and some are first-come, first served. >>Huts: Book a hut for your family. While huts usually allow you ...
Spring is coming soon to the top of the Rockies. Plan your own adventure sampler for a late spring or early summer getaway to Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. Choose from these great options, for a trip you'll treasure forever! (📷: Bike Leadville by @gilly.swimbikerun) Go Fishing Catch the fish you wish in Gold Medal Trout Waters. Just outside ...
If you haven’t been to Twin Lakes, Colorado, add it to your bucket list. These large glacial lakes lie at the foot of Colorado’s highest peaks and offer a wealth of recreation. In addition, the mountain hamlet of Twin Lakes offers intriguing history, delicious food, and charming places to lay your weary head. Whether your taste for adventure is wild or ...
Leadville, Colorado, was one of the West’s wildest silver boomtowns in the late 1800s, and many reminders of its history can still be seen today. Check out these fascinating history tours in Leadville and nearby Twin Lakes, Colorado. 1) Downtown Museums Plan a full day to explore Leadville’s many museums—all within walking distance of each other—and learn the area’s intriguing history. ...
Planning a wedding in Colorado? Leadville and Twin Lakes offer the perfect blend of beauty and simplicity for a unique and special day. The area’s historical roots and stunning views make it a magical place to bring together family and friends for an unforgettable event. And several new small businesses have made it easier, more cost effective and environmentally friendly than ...
This winter, you can still participate in two iconic Leadville Nordic ski and fat bike races! They offer a fun way to get outside and enjoy the fresh winter air. If you can't come to Leadville, you can still participate from home. When you join the races, you’ll be helping build and maintain area trails. Help support the Leadville trails you ...
If you'd like to learn more about Colorado's past, explore Leadville and Twin Lakes history this winter! Here, links to the past abound. From museums to winter trails to Victorian architecture, you’ll find unique character in our genuine and historic mountain towns. If you're on a ski vacation and need a break from the slopes, or your family members don't ski, ...
[Updated March 14, 2022] Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, are excited to welcome you, safely! Please see what's open: Lodging Lodging is open. You can spend the night in hotels and motels, vacation rentals, B&Bs, and more. Or camp! Please check directly with lodging to make a reservation. Restaurants & Bars Restaurants are open for dine-in at 100% capacity. Many local ...
This year, you can shop from your favorite Leadville and Twin Lakes stores from the comfort of your home! The Share the Love Online Holiday Marketplace is open now until noon on Dec. 23, 2020. Shop goods and gift certificates from local artists, shops, attractions, and nonprofits. You are sure to find unique gifts that your friends and family will love. Pick ...
[Updated Jan. 5 2020] Snow and real winter have come to Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! At 10,152’, North America’s highest-elevation city offers snow from early season through late spring. Check out our outdoor activities—all naturally socially distanced. Plus great museums and restaurants to warm you up! Ski Cooper's Wide-Open Spaces Ski Cooper, a ski “resort” without the pretense, is open ...
Did you know that Leadville, Colorado, is home to a national museum? The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is perched in North America's highest-elevation town. Visitors often say they are surprised by the depth of this unsung museum, which tells the past, present, and future of the nation's mining. There, you can learn about mining through geology, science, historic ...
[Updated May 2022] Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, is open for business. We are taking precautions to ensure you have a safe and healthy trip. Please use this Travel Guide to know what to expect. Then plan your visit! 📷: Twin Lakes by @shel8y on Instagram What’s Open Indoors Lodging, shops, and many fun things to do are open. Restaurants are ...
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 1880s Victorian buildings and abandoned mines. Read these tales with a shiver. Then make plans to visit the sites where spine-chilling events took place. Mineral Belt Trail Bike, walk, or cross-country ...
This fall, be sure to visit the museums in Leadville, Colorado! They offer a great way to learn more about Leadville, named a Best Historic Small Town by USA Today in 2020, and the mining that built it. Imagine yourself living in a fancy home during the Silver Rush days. Or crawling through narrow passageways underground. Or attending a pioneer synagogue. ...
If you're looking for a version of Switzerland without the flight, visit the other Interlaken. No passport is needed when you travel to Twin Lakes, Colorado, and nearby Leadville! Colorado's Lake County has glacial lakes, trains, boats, and immense peaks like the Swiss Interlaken, plus a taste of the wild west. You can hike, bike, fish, snowshoe, nordic ski, camp, and ...
Fall is a quiet season in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, after the summer vacationers and before the snow-lovers. Trails and restaurants are calm, and lodging rates are lower for shoulder season. If you need more reasons to visit, here are seven things you can do on a fun fall mountain escape: 1) Explore Uncrowded Trails In the fall, the trails ...
[Updated Oct. 16, 2020] Leadville is honored to be a winner in the 2020 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Award Contest for “Best Historic Small Town”! Leadville was the only city in Colorado to win in this specific category. How Winners Were Chosen Twenty nominees were chosen by a panel of relevant experts, which included a combination of editors from ...
Stay at Grand West Village Resort or the S.L.umber Yard, and play golf at North America's highest and most-scenic course for less! The Stay and Play package includes reserved tee times and a 20% discount on all golf green fees, cart and other rentals at Mt. Massive Golf Course. Set at the foot of Colorado's two highest peaks, this ...
[Updated Oct. 28, 2020] Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, are open! And we can’t wait to see you again. Here are five reasons this is the perfect place to visit this year. 1) Our elevated beauty brings joy. Spectacular views abound at North America’s highest-elevation city. Refresh your body and soul with our uplifting, wide open views. All roads into Leadville ...
In response to George Floyd's death and protests, the Lake County Tourism Panel would like to share our thoughts on the way forward. At Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, we join the nation in calling for change. For racial equality and human justice. Yes, Black Lives Matter. Just as travel encourages new experiences and stepping outside comfort zones, we encourage the ...
Summer is kicking off in the high country, and lodging is reopening in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! As of June 1, 2020, lodging properties may reopen if they’ve received approval from Lake County Public Health Agency. This means that when you stay in Lake County, you can do so with confidence that your room meets careful and thoughtful guidelines for ...
[Updated June 2, 2020] This summer, things will look a little different in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. We’d like to tell you what to expect—and how you can enjoy Leadville, Twin Lakes, and our miles of forests, mountains, and sparkling waters. Plan to Come See Us, Safely We continue to reopen slowly, within safety guidelines, and are excited to continue ...
If you love the mining history in Leadville, Colorado, don't miss this new online exhibit from the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. The painting depicts California Gulch, just to the southeast of downtown Leadville, where you can still see remnants of the famous mines. Within this simple painting are stories of colorful characters from Leadville's mining days. Colorful Characters ...
We miss you and are looking forward to when we can safely welcome you back to Leadville and Twin Lakes. For now, though, we ask you to enjoy our area through a virtual visit. Here are some ways you can experience the mountains and lakes from the comfort of your own home. Take a Quick Virtual Tour! Leadville and Twin Lakes ...
Did you know the Statue of Liberty contains more than 62,000 pounds of copper? Or that the average American uses 1,800 pounds of copper in their lifetime? Take a virtual tour of a new exhibit at the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum to learn more about this fascinating metal. This exhibit is bilingual, English and Spanish. For more than ...
From the comfort of your home, you can virtually travel to Nevada and Leadville, Colorado, to view aerial photographs of mining sites. Leadville's National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum presents an online tour of "Perspectives: Aerial Photos of Nevada Mine Sites" by the late F.E. “Bill” Dubois. Bill began flying solo at age 16 and later built a homemade ...
[Updated May 29, 2020] Leadville, Twin Lakes, and Safer-at-Home We miss you all, and we look forward to seeing you this summer and fall! We are now operating under the Lake County Safer-At-Home Public Health Order. For everyone's safety, Lake County Public Health is advising against non-essential travel in May by non-residents, including second homeowners. That way, Lake County can ensure ...
For a great road trip, head to Twin Lakes, Colorado, this spring! Set near the edge of two of Colorado’s largest glacial lakes, this historic village is both picturesque and welcoming. Businesses in Twin Lakes, and the jaw-dropping drive over Independence Pass, re-open by Memorial Day weekend, depending on snow conditions. Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway The Top of the ...
If you like Leadville history and being outside, explore the Mineral Belt Trail! This family-friendly 12-mile trail encircling Leadville showcases the stunning natural beauty in North America's highest city and its rich mining heritage. In winter and early spring, the trail is groomed for fat biking and Nordic skiing. From mid-spring to fall, this trail is a paved, ADA-accessible trail great ...
[Updated Dec. 1, 2020] Ski Cooper opened new double black diamond ski runs in early 2020! Come discover 70 skiable acres of new advanced terrain! New Tennessee Creek Basin Double Black Diamonds Meet some of the new runs: Powder Stache and Solstice: Glades with steep grades Bumpus Rumpus and Swan Song: Two of the area's eight new chutes Maverick and Viper: ...
Experience winter in Leadville, Colorado, for a trip you'll never forget. The highest city in North America has the best snow around, plus tons of ways to enjoy it. Watch our Colorado Public Television series to learn just how much there is to do in winter! In Leadville, City in the Clouds, we'll check out the great skiing at Ski Cooper. Discover ...
It’s snowing in Leadville, Colorado, and it’s time to play outside. There’s nothing better than strapping on snowshoes and tromping through the fluffy stuff! Here in North America’s highest city, at 10,152', the snow's so great that we were chosen to host the 2020 Dion Snowshoes US National Snowshoe Championships! Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoe racer or it’s your first time ...
Start 2020 a little closer to the stars, with fun New Year's celebrations in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! Escape to North America's highest city for outdoor fun this New Year's! Ski Cooper To celebrate the holidays, bring the whole family to Ski Cooper! It's known for its laid-back, family-friendly vibe and affordable prices. Don't miss the 19 new double black ...
History in Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado, is the real deal. And this year five Lake County businesses are celebrating 140 years! Make sure you see these 5 history spots on your next trip to town. Twin Lakes: 1) The Twin Lakes Inn & Saloon Over the years, The Twin Lakes Inn & Saloon has been a stagecoach stop, a hotel, ...
Celebrate Halloween in Leadville, Colorado, for a spooky good time! Its storied history is full of miners and outlaws, who are bound to have left some ghosts. Its National Historic Landmark District has 70 blocks of original Victorian homes and businesses, and stories of spirits abound. Plus, you're up on a remote mountaintop for All Hallow's Eve when you stay at ...
Take a Labor Day getaway to Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! Here are some ideas of ways to spend a fun-filled holiday weekend. Things to Do Celebrate the lakes. Eke out another weekend of summer on big blue Twin Lakes and Turquoise Lake. Float in a boat, fish from the shore, walk or relax on the beach, or rent a kayak, ...
This year marks the 70th running of the burro races at Leadville Boom Days, a three-day festival to celebrate mining heritage in Leadville, Colorado. And this long-standing festival truly has something for everyone! Themed "70 Years of Haulin' Ass," the event kicks off Friday, Aug. 2 and goes through Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019. In addition to the best-known events—the burro races, ...
Spring snow is still deep and rideable in Leadville, Colorado. And we're often still topped with a layer of freshies! If you'd like to play in fresh snow and warm sunshine, Leadville is just the place. Here are six great ways to play in our abundant spring snow. 1) Snowmobile: Take a snowmobile tour or bring your own sled! Zoom around ...
Get a taste of winter activities in Leadville, Colorado, with special new videos from the Colorado Public Television (Channel 12) Street Level series. In the first episode of this intriguing two-part series, host Juliana Broste will explore the “City in the Clouds,” honor the famed heroes of the 10th Mountain Division, hop on a snowcat for an exciting tour on Chicago ...
If you’re looking for a cool new space to hold a wedding or meeting in Leadville, Colorado, check out FREIGHT, a lovingly restored railroad depot just blocks from the historic downtown that opened this fall. You might get to visit if you attend an event in town, as FREIGHT is quickly becoming a popular venue in the community. An appealing blend ...
Ready for a vacation, but need to keep in touch with the office? Two new amenities in Leadville, Colorado, make a working vacation a little easier. Enjoy a scenic new co-working space and access reliable Internet. When you're off the clock, unplug with a full array of outdoor adventure, historical sites, and jaw-dropping scenery. Work with a View Now you can work ...
Brave the Highway of Frozen Death Leadville, Colorado, is known for extremes, and the four-wheel-drive (4WD) road over Mosquito Pass is no exception. With a high point of 13,185’, it’s the fourth-highest road in Colorado—with mountain weather to boot. Known as "The Highway of Frozen Death," it is open from July through September each year, depending on snowfall. The route requires ...
In North America’s highest city, we’re embracing the in-between season, when winter hasn’t quite left and summer hasn’t quite arrived. Come see for yourself why this playful season is a great time to visit Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. 1. You can enjoy winter or summer sports—on the same day. Spring is the best of both worlds. Winter still sparkles just ...
For the ultimate summer kickoff, spend Memorial Day weekend a little closer to the sun. Leadville, the highest city in North America, fully opens for the season on this special holiday weekend. Revel in these just-opened-for-summer activities. 1. Camp out. Campgrounds open May 25 for your tent camping and RV fun. Come see the stars in the Rockies. 2. Fish or ...
To wrap up Leadville History Month, let’s share some fun facts about this 1880s silver mining boomtown. Did you know that a popular Harrison Avenue jewelry store once offered one of Queen Isabella’s diamonds for $10,000, way back in 1880? (In that location, you can now buy or rent two-wheeled human-powered machines that let you access the gems of Leadville trails, ...
The 2017-2018 season marked the 75th birthday of Ski Cooper and the winter of 1942-1943, when Cooper Hill first was used for ski training. Ski Cooper’s Younger Days So what happened in Cooper’s first year? The area played an important role in World War II—it served as a training ground for ski troopers who ultimately helped turn the tide of the war. ...
For some Leadville locals, it wouldn’t be the holidays without a journey into the forest to choose and cut their own Christmas tree. You, too, can share in this time-honored tradition. For the low, low cost of $10, you can buy a permit to enter National Forest land in Lake County. Trek in old school—shouldering a saw or ax—and engage your ...
On Veterans Day, you can honor those who served our country by exploring Camp Hale. Did you know this picturesque valley is where World War II soldiers learned to fight on skis—and where the CIA secretly trained Tibetan fighters? That Camp Hale may soon have a first-of-its-kind historic designation? And that it’s a great place to hike and bike (and soon, snowmobile)? Read ...
For a unique Thanksgiving, head to the hills! Local favorite Tennessee Pass Cookhouse and its luxury sleep yurts open for the season on Thanksgiving day. For a unique holiday experience, Nordic ski, or snowshoe a mile through the pines to a candlelit yurt for a gourmet dinner of turkey and the traditional fixings, or elk, trout, or more tasty entrees. Spend ...
Summer is underway in North America's highest-elevation town. Explore these top 12 reasons to visit Leadville, and plan your trip today. Cultural Events at the Tabor Opera House: Concerts, plays, comedy, ballet, and more in the Tabor Opera House's first season under Leadville ownership, plus revamped tours six days a week. See the 2017 schedule. Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad: Special ...