For the Love of Winter

In Leadville and Twin Lakes, we want to help you fall head over heels (hopefully not literally) with winter in the mountains. Whether you’re exploring solo, surrounded by family and friends, or with your special someone, come to Leadville-Twin Lakes to spark or rekindle your love of winter.

Photo: @lavidaadventures


PLAY IN THE SNOW TOGETHER

Who says winter has to be spent indoors? Here you can dive into the snow, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and rediscover the magic of the season. 


  • Fat Biking: Explore the fat bike trails and join the Leadville Winter Mountain Bike Series!
  • Ice Skating: Ice skate under the stars, or below the peaks, at Leadville’s outdoor rink.
  • Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing: Tour Leadville’s scenic Mineral Belt Trail. Ski the Leadville Loppet Nordic ski race, happening Saturday, Feb. 24! For more romantic views, check out the exquisitely groomed trails at the Mount Massive Ski and Snowshoe Trails. These skate and classic trails look out to the Mosquito and Sawatch ranges, one of the best views in town.
  • Skiing: At Ski Cooper, you and your honey can ski or snowboard on wide-open slopes that meet every skill level. It is also a great place to bring the whole family. To make your heart beat faster, try Cooper’s double black diamond terrain, Tennessee Creek Basin!
  • Sledding: Be kids again and go sledding down Leadville’s high, fast run.
  • Snowmobiling: Zoom along with breathtaking views! Take a guided snowmobile tour or explore our groomed winter trails on your own.
  • Snow Zipping: Talk about breathless. Hold hands as you fly together on a zip line, surrounded by a winter wonderland.


Photo: @tennpassco


SLOW DOWN AND RECONNECT

In the mood for a more relaxing adventure? Gaze at the stars, stay in a yurt, or treat yourself to a spa day.


STARGAZING

There’s nothing quite like the night sky in Leadville and Twin Lakes. At 10,000 feet, the air is crisp and clear, and the stars seem close enough to touch. Bundle up and venture outside for a front-row seat to the Milky Way, constellations, and maybe even a shooting star or two. Winter stargazing is a uniquely serene experience—the snow muffles the world, and the stars shine all the brighter against the cold, inky sky. Experience it for yourself. Discover popular viewing locations here. 


YURT TRIPS

Take in the winter calm as you ski or snowshoe to a backcountry yurt. 


Is it date night? Fill up on a four-course dinner at Tennessee Pass Cookhouse! Trek one mile through a snowy forest, lit by the moon and stars or sparkled by falling snow. You’ll arrive at an off-grid candlelit yurt and a gourmet dinner. Don’t forget to book ahead - advance reservations are required.

If your sitter can only stay for the day, ski or snowshoe to lunch at the Cookhouse—a delicious break from exploring the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center trails. Advance reservations are required here as well!


If the Cookhouse yurt is full, don’t fear, you can have a tasty lunch at the Nordic Center—soups and sandwiches, hot mulled cider, and more. Sit by the toasty wood stove or on the sunny deck. No reservations are needed. You can rent skis, snowshoes, or fat bikes for these adventures at the Nordic Center.


STAY OVERNIGHT

Extend the magic of your snowy trek by staying in a Tennessee Pass luxury sleep yurt. Equipped with wood stoves, down comforters, and even room service, these yurts redefine cozy mountain living.


For those seeking solitude and a true wilderness experience, the Leadville Backcountry Yurts offer unmatched privacy and jaw-dropping views at 12,000 feet. These rustic yurts are a dream for experienced backcountry skiers and snowshoers looking to fully immerse themselves in the alpine beauty.



SPA TREATMENTS

Pamper yourself with a massage, salt scrub or body wrap, foot soak or other treatment at Nourish Day Spa, or give their sweet-smelling salts and scrubs. Book a calming massage at Blue Earth Yoga & Salon or Active Kneads, or try therapeutic yoga at Prajna. Learn more about Leadville’s spa day options.



Photo: @beforeandafterleadville

DRINKS & SWEET TREATS

Take a break from the cold and warm up with scrumptious desserts, inventive drinks, and more. Here are some of the many highlights, and you can find the full list of offerings here. 


  • Spend a cozy afternoon or evening at Before & After Leadville. Savor scrumptious desserts, inventive cocktails and mocktails, and light fare. 
  • In keeping with the theme, be sure to order honey wine, from the new Cloud City Mead!
  • Relax with a cup of coffee and baked goods at City on a Hill, Zero Day Coffee, the Golden Burro Cafe.
  • Delight in a Cuban coffee with raw sugar at Buchi Cafe.
  • In love with ice cream? Pay a visit to D’Love Gourmet Coffee and Ice Cream.
  • Find creamy boutique candies and healthy treats at Blueflower Candies & Provisions. 
  • Surprise your sweetie with cookies, cakes, and fudge, as well as delicious meals, from the Silver Llama Market & Eatery. 
  • Head to the new Tenderfoot Twin Lakes for scrumptious jams and jellies, teas and coffee, and more delicious treats.


Photo: @twinlakesinn


ROMANTIC DINNERS

Do you find romance in a candlelit dinner, takeout pizza by the fire, a spicy Mexican plate perhaps? Leadville-Twin Lakes has all of that!


  • For ambiance, have drinks by the patio firepit before dinner at Treeline Kitchen.
  • Enjoy elegant historic charm at Mineral 1886 or a steak dinner at Quincy’s. 
  • Head to the historic Twin Lakes Inn & Saloon, open in winter! 
  • Explore all area restaurants for special meals.


Photo: Diana Lange


STAY AND SNUGGLE

Escape to comfortable lodging just made for snuggling. A base camp at one of our B&Bs, motels and hotels or hostels with private rooms lets you start each day by watching sunrises and sunsets over the high peaks. If you’re looking for more space, rent a mountain cabin or vacation home.


Photo: @jon_kohlwey


WINTER WEDDINGS IN THE MOUNTAINS

All this talk of love have you thinking of the future? Leadville and Twin Lakes offer the perfect blend of beauty and simplicity for a unique and wonderful day. The area’s historical roots and stunning views make it a magical place to bring together family and friends for an unforgettable event. Learn how you can have the perfect wedding in Leadville-Twin Lakes.



As you can see, winter in Leadville and Twin Lakes is less about surviving and more about thriving. Join us this winter!

One Perfect Spring Day on Harrison Avenue

April 1, 2025
Shops, Snacks & Small-Town Charm in the Heart of Leadville

The Art of Mud Season

April 1, 2025
IT'S MUD SEASON Spring in Leadville and Twin Lakes means longer days, melting snow, and the start of a new adventure season. But before wildflowers bloom and alpine trails open, we enter a unique time of year locals affectionately call mud season . While this in-between season may be quieter, it’s also a critical time for caring for our trails and outdoor spaces. 

Goggle Tans & Goodbye Runs

April 1, 2025
Saying Farewell to Ski Season in Leadville

LEADVILLE’S IRISH MINERS’ MEMORIAL AND EXHIBIT: THE STORY OF IMMIGRANTS

March 1, 2025
You can now visit the Leadville Irish Miners’ Memorial , which speaks to the hopes and dreams of immigrants across the world. This new memorial honors Leadville residents whose names had been lost to time. 

Spring Has Not Sprung: Cozy Up by the Fire in Leadville, Colorado

February 25, 2025
While much of Colorado welcomes the budding warmth of spring, here in North America’s highest city, winter likes to linger a little (or a lot) longer. At 10,152 feet, Leadville isn’t quite ready to trade snowflakes for sunshine just yet. But that’s part of the magic—our long winters mean more time to enjoy roaring fireplaces, warm drinks, and cozy mountain vibes. So, whether you’re fresh off the ski trails, wrapping up a day of exploring, or just looking for a snug spot to soak in Leadville’s charm, here are the best places in town to warm up by the fire.

2 MILES HIGH, 2 METERS DEEP

February 20, 2025
No matter when you visit Leadville and Twin Lakes, you’ll find yourself two miles above sea level (ok, technically 1.9 miles, but who’s counting?). When you visit in March, you’ll be even closer to the glorious Colorado sun because by this time of year, Leadville and Twin Lakes have typically received around two meters of snow! Yes, meters. Here are some great ways you can enjoy the abundant snow and sun! 1) HIT THE SLOPES AT SKI COOPER Like to ski or ride? Check out Ski Cooper for affordable access to uncrowded slopes. Cooper is open seven days a week through Sunday, April 13, 2025. To learn to ski or board or to improve your skills, sign up for lessons for the whole family. 2) RIDE THE TRAIN Hop aboard the Leadville Railroad Winter Express for a 2-hour train ride through some of the area’s most spectacular scenery. The Winter Express runs until April 13th, departing Thursdays through Saturdays at 1:00 p.m plus daily at 1:00pm during spring break from March 9th through March 29th. This is a popular attraction and reservations are required! Book your seats here . 3) GO SNOWMOBILING Snowmobile and ATV tours are a great way to explore Leadville’s historic East Side Mining District, Turquoise Lake Recreation Area and the surrounding hills. A variety of tour styles are available with options for experienced adventure seekers to beginners and families. Vroom, vroom! Local outfitters include: Leadville ATV , Leadville Offroad Adventures and White Mountain Snowmobiles 4) GO DOGSLEDDING Want a spring break story that’ll make your friends jealous? Hop on a sled and let a team of energetic, tail-wagging huskies whisk you across the snow! You'll glide through stunning mountain scenery with your new four-legged crew leading the way. Dogsledding is a thrilling, unforgettable adventure—and fun for the whole family! 5) GO SNOW ZIPPING Have you ever wanted to zipline in the winter? Now’s your chance! Experience the thrill of our 2-hour Winter Mountain Zip Line Tour , where you’ll descend not one but six exhilarating zip lines, spanning over 8,000 feet of fun. Extend your adventure with the Zip Line and Snowmobile Combo Tour . Get the full scoop on rates, reservations, and restrictions here !
A woman wearing a helmet and goggles is taking a selfie in the snow.

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

February 20, 2025
If you love deep snow, bluebird skies, and zero lift lines, then March in Leadville and Twin Lakes are calling your name. While other Colorado ski towns are packed this time of year, this high-altitude haven stays refreshingly quiet—meaning more powder, more solitude, and more space to explore safely. Whether you’re carving fresh turns at Ski Cooper, venturing into the pristine backcountry, or enjoying a peaceful après-ski with no wait at the bar, this is your chance to experience winter without the chaos. But with all that extra room comes extra responsibility—so before you head into the untouched snow, let’s talk backcountry safety tips.

Experience the Thrill of Leadville Ski Joring

February 5, 2025
GIDDY UP! March 1-2, 2025 Every winter, Leadville transforms into a high-octane winter wonderland with the annual Leadville Ski Joring & Crystal Carnival Weekend . This two-day event is packed with adrenaline-pumping sports, winter races, and community fun. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a unique winter experience, Leadville is the place to be! This weekend always draws a crowd! Book a place to stay today .

February is the Worst... Not Here

February 5, 2025
Ah, February. That special time of year when you can’t remember what it feels like to be warm outdoors and spring is still oh so far away. It’s the worst, right?  At Leadville and Twin Lakes, we invite you to turn that February frown upside down and experience how amazing winter in Colorado can be (yes, even in February).

Ski Cooper: Affordable, Family-Friendly, and Close to Denver

January 2, 2025
Fun in the Snow at Ski Cooper If you're searching for an authentic mountain experience filled with fun in the snow, Ski Cooper near Leadville, Colorado, is your perfect winter destination. Here's why this hidden gem stands out among Colorado's ski areas.
More Posts