TOP 12 REASONS TO VISIT LEADVILLE-TWIN LAKES IN 2025

This year, be sure to visit Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado! Here at the top of the Rockies, you’ll find a wide breadth of things to do outdoors and in our genuine and historic downtowns. While the list of possibilities is nearly endless, here are our top 12 reasons to visit in 2025!

Woman on horse pulling skier down Leadville main street by @lilympecor

Photo: @lilympecor


1) WATCH HORSES PULL SKIERS DOWN MAIN STREET

Leadville Ski Joring weekend is the first full weekend of March each year. Come see horses and riders barreling down Leadville’s snow-covered avenue, with skiers flying behind and soaring over giant jumps. It’s a sight you’ll never forget! Make a weekend of it and stay for fat bike races, Nordic sprints, music and dancing, and much more. Book your trip now for Feb. 28 - March 2, 2025!


Woman looking at golden aspen, Twin Lakes and Mt. Elbert by @thismomentarylightaffliction

Photo: @thismomentarylightaffliction


2) SEE FALL COLORS YOU WON’T BELIEVE

Leaves change early in Leadville, which at 10,152’ is North America’s highest-elevation city. Views of golden aspen are spectacular along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway between Twin Lakes and Independence Pass. The byway also glows yellow leading into Leadville. Find first gold with us!


Downtown Leadville by @gasperwasthere

Photo: @gasperwasthere


3) ENJOY TODAY’S HISTORY IN COOL MOUNTAIN TOWNS

Leadville and Twin Lakes are genuine, historic mountain towns that are lived in—and loved—today. You’ll enjoy modern locally owned shops, delicious restaurants, and cozy lodging in unique historic buildings, for a cool vibe.


Photo: Diana Lange


4) SKI OR RIDE UNCROWDED SLOPES

Tired of waiting for the lift at pricey resorts? Get plenty of skiing and riding time at Cooper, where short lift lines are short, affordable tickets, and a laid-back vibe. Family friendly Cooper has a variety of terrain from easy to expert, making it great for skiers and riders of all levels. Don’t miss this hidden gem!


Photo: Jon Resnick


5) EXPLORE THE NEW CAMP HALE – CONTINENTAL DIVIDE NATIONAL MONUMENT

The Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, established in 2022, is on the doorstep of Leadville-Twin Lakes. Stay with us and explore the beautiful and historical lands of Camp Hale by biking, hiking, snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing. You can also camp and fish in this quiet valley. Fall is a jaw-dropping time to visit the large aspen groves that turn the hillsides bright yellow.


Photo: @runjennjenn


6) ROLL THOUGH A FAT BIKING MECCA

Leadville-Twin Lakes offers a plethora of fat bike trails, making this fun sport accessible to riders year 'round. Our winter fat biking trails are so great that Leadville even hosted the 2024 Fat Bike Worlds. Sign up for one or all five of the Leadville Winter Mountain Bike Series, and enjoy excellent riding and camaraderie on these group rides. Come experience the trails of champions! 


Photo: @traceanngoodie


7) DISCOVER YESTERDAY’S HISTORY ON FOOT OR WHEELS

The area is full of fascinating late 1800’s Silver Rush history. Dig into the stories by strolling our museums and taking historic walking tours in downtown Leadville and Twin Lakes village. Visit our new memorial, the Leadville Irish Miners’ Memorial.


Hike, bike, cross-country ski, fat bike, or snowmobile past original mining structures in Leadville's East Side Mining District. Bike, hike, or float to Interlaken ghost resort at Twin Lakes. See a show at the Tabor Opera House, built by a wealthy miner and the part of the Colorado Historic Opera Houses Circuit.


We also encourage you to learn more about the area’s Native American history.


8) VISIT A PLACE WHERE LOCALS CARE ABOUT THE NATURAL WORLD.

Locals love the peaks, forests, valleys, and waters of this area. Please join in to protect this stunning natural beauty! Volunteer on a stewardship project with the Friends of Lake County. Make sure this is the year you “doo” Colorado right. Join us in celebrating a new nature preserve on the Arkansas River. And please follow these 7 tips to keep Leadville and Twin Lakes beautiful!


Photo: Diana Lange


9) CHEER BURRO RACES AND PARADES

For more fun sights, join us for Leadville Boom Days and burro races from August 1-3, 2025! Runners and their burros travel up to 21 miles through the mountains in this annual race. The Boom Days mining heritage festival kicks off with a large parade. You’ll find a big July 4th parade and a small but fun St. Patrick’s Day parade. You’ll also want to catch the St. Patrick’s Day Practice Parade in September, a small gathering during weather that’s much warmer than Leadville’s March snows.


Photo: @alex23cb


10) CLIMB TO NEW HEIGHTS

Leadville-Twin Lakes is at the foot of Colorado’s two highest peaks, Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. The views from the top are incredible! Even though most nearby 14ers are not technical, they are big mountains that require respect. Learn how to prepare for your first 14er for a fun and safe trip! For a shorter hike, check out the many beautiful local hiking trails. Here at the Top of the Rockies, we can always help you reach new heights!


Photo: @Chasing.Luminance

11) REACH FOR THE STARS UNDER DARK SKIES

Missing the stars under city lights? Visit Leadville-Twin Lakes for dark skies. At Mt. Bump, across from the village, you can peer into the depths of the universe. Overnights at the 10th Mountain Division Huts, mountain yurts, or local campsites can also let you truly see the stars.


Photo: @roadhousetwinlakes


12) EXPERIENCE A REAL WINTER AND PEACEFUL HOLIDAYS

If you love snow, add a trip to Leadville-Twin Lakes to your 2025 list. Here you’ll find all kinds of skiing and other winter sports, as well as the chance to warm up in great restaurants and saloons. Plan your 2025 year-end holidays in our quiet, peaceful mountain towns!


PLAN YOUR TRIP

Now is the time to make your travel plans! Explore even more about Leadville and Twin Lakes, and plan your trip today!

One Perfect Spring Day on Harrison Avenue

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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. 

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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 .

For the Love of Winter

February 5, 2025
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.

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).
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