Skijoring weekend in Leadville is high-energy, high-altitude, and packed with Old West spirit. A little planning goes a long way in making your experience smooth and unforgettable.
Remember this beloved tradition is powered entirely by volunteers who generously give their time and energy to make it all happen, so please treat them, our town, and one another with kindness and respect; share your viewing spot, don’t push into the crowd, smile, laugh, and let the little things roll off your back. We’re all here to have a good time, and in Leadville we believe in respecting our place at our pace – things move a little slower here, and that’s just how we like it.
Ski Joring weekend often brings more visitors than the entire population of the County, so please keep that in mind when visiting our local businesses and help us keep this incredible community celebration thriving for years to come.
Here are our top tips to help you make the most of it:
Arrive Early & Park Smart
The earlier you arrive, the closer you’ll likely park to the action on Harrison Avenue. Once you’re in town, grab a bite to eat, browse local shops, or even visit a museum while you wait for the races to begin. Skijoring weekend draws big crowds, and streets fill quickly. There is no dedicated event parking, so please plan to use street parking or nearby public parking lots.
Scout Your Perfect Viewing Spot
Take a few minutes to walk the course and pick a viewing location that fits your style:
The road is closed from 8th street (start) to 4th street (finish)
- East Side of Harrison Avenue:
The afternoon sun shines directly on this side. There’s an elevated sidewalk, making it easier to see the avenue and catch all the action, it can be warmer but you’ll be looking toward the sun. - West Side of Harrison Avenue:
Sidewalks are often wider here, and the sun will be at your back. It can get shady and colder later in the day, but visibility is glare-free. (between west 5th & 6th street is the county courthouse with a larger lawn, a great spot for families who have kids that want space to run around).
Choose what works best for your comfort and viewing preference.
Plan for a Crowd
Saturday is typically busier than Sunday. The streets get packed, and movement can be slow.
- Bring your patience.
- Have a meet-up plan with your group in case you get separated.
- Avoid large backpacks, oversized strollers, or wagons, they make navigating through spectators difficult for you and everyone around you.
Take a Break When You Need One
Need to warm up or sit down for a bit?
- The Leadville Visitor Center (460 Harrison Avenue) offers a comfortable place to relax. Water and bathrooms available, a few stair steps to reach them.
- ADA-accessible restrooms are available at Zaitz Park (between East 6th & 7th Streets on Harrison) and in the parking lot of Iris Moon Emporium (between West 8th & 9th Streets on Harrison Ave).
- Tabor Opera House (308 Harrison Ave) will have a warming station and film Ice Cowboys playing in the theater on Saturday from 11am to 4pm.
- Temple Israel, The National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum, Healy House Museum and Tabor Home Museums will be open for visitors, step away from the busy energy of the avenue to learn a little bit more about Leadville’s history & heritage.
Come Ready for Fun
Bring a positive attitude, dress in layers for changing mountain weather, and prepare for high-energy excitement. With a little planning and a lot of enthusiasm, your skijoring weekend will be one to remember.
Daylight Savings
The time change might make for a slightly sluggish start to your day, but you can bet our competitors at the Leadville Ski Joring event will be charging out of the gate as strong as ever. Be sure to set your clocks ahead, get a good night’s sleep, and come prepared for the time change.
Experience More Than the Races
Skijoring weekend is more than just horses and skiers flying down the street. Embrace the Wild West spirit of Leadville. Explore the town’s rich mining history, pop into local businesses, and soak up the vibrant, high-altitude energy that makes this weekend so special.
Arrive Early or Stay Late: Explore Leadville’s Historic Side
Make time between the festivities to discover the rich history and vibrant charm that make Leadville so special.
Discover Local History
National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum
Open Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm (last entry 3:15pm) and Sunday from 10:00am to 3:00pm (last entry 2:15pm), this fascinating museum celebrates the pioneers and innovations that shaped America’s mining legacy. Explore engaging exhibits, impressive mineral displays, and stories of the people who built the West.
Temple Israel
This beautifully restored synagogue-turned-museum is a must-see. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm on both Saturday and Sunday, Temple Israel offers free admission and a glimpse into Leadville’s diverse cultural heritage. Its architecture alone is worth the visit.
The home of silver king Horace Tabor and his first wife, Augusta, was built around 1877, the couple lived in this home until 1881, when Horace left Augusta for his mistress, Baby Doe. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm.
Leadville’s historic Tabor Opera House was once billed as the finest theatre between St. Louis and San Francisco. Silver baron Horace Tabor, who made his fortune in Leadville, built this opulent building in 1879 in a mere 100 days. Open Saturday only from 11am to 4pm with a warming station serving hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. The theater will be playing the film Ice Cowboys.
Step Inside History
Delaware Hotel
Stop by to admire the newly renovated lobby and bar inside this iconic historic hotel. While you’re there, be sure to ask about their famously haunted rooms—if you dare.
Silver Dollar Saloon
One of the oldest bars in Colorado, the Silver Dollar Saloon is rich with Old West character. Step inside for a drink, soak in the historic atmosphere, and imagine the stories these walls could tell.
Stay for the Weekend and Do It All
Looking for more ways to enjoy the snow? At 10,152′, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in the U.S., offering endless winter adventure opportunities.
- Downhill Skiing: Ski Cooper offers all-natural snow, short lift lines, and affordable full-day lift tickets for a fun, family-friendly experience.
- Fatbiking, Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Snowmobiling: With miles of groomed winter trails, you can explore the stunning landscape around Leadville and at the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center, White Mountain Snowmobilesand Leadville Offroad Adventures.
- Winter Ziplining catch that wind in your hair while zooming through the trees at Top of the Rockies Zipline. Use code skijoring15 for 15% zipline tours on March 6th, 7th and 8th 2026.
- Leadville Railroad cozy up in their comfortable lounge cars while taking in views of the Arkansas River Headwaters.
- Winter ATV Tours is another great way to stay warm while experiencing views as you tour through the historic east side mining district in an enclosed side by side vehicle, hot chocolate included!
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