Journey to a now-abandoned resort on the shores of Twin Lakes, called Interlaken, that you can only reach by trail or boat.
At this National Historic Site maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, you can roam around the original buildings, set amidst pine trees and sage, including the two-story Interlaken Hotel built in 1879 and a state-of-the-art octagonal outhouse. You can wander into Dexter Cabin at any time, admire the intricate doorknobs and the wood-paneled tub, and climb to the cupola for a birds-eye view of the lakes and surrounding peaks.
Interlaken Trail
The trail to Interlaken leads to a turn-of-the-century ghost resort on the shores of Twin Lakes. Along the way, you’ll pass through pine forests, aspen groves, and revel in views across a large blue glacial lake and out to some of the state’s highest peaks.
When you reach Interlaken, you can wander around the buildings, tour through James Dexter’s cupola-topped cabin, and imagine Interlaken’s days as a bustling resort.
Distance: Approximately 5 miles round trip
Sports: Biking, hiking, running, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing
Directions to Trailhead: From downtown Leadville, follow Highway 24 south for approximately 16 miles. Turn right (west) on Highway 82 toward Independence Pass. Drive .8 mile and turn left on County Road 25, a dirt road across from a log cabin. At the dam, turn left and then take the next right to the Colorado Trail.
Interlaken’s History
Wealthy miner James V. Dexter, of Leadville’s Dexter Cabin, expanded the single Interlaken Hotel into one of Colorado’s premier mountain resorts. Between 1883 and 1890, he commissioned the construction of a 16-horse stable, servants’ quarters, and dance pavilion. In the summer, guests strolled on blue grass lawns dotted with fountains and floated the lakes on boats. In the winter, they ice skated, skied, and rode in sleighs.
The resort closed in 1950 when the lakes were enlarged, leaving the unique experience Interlaken is today.
