Location: Leadville
Top Things to do in Leadville
10 Nature & Parks in Leadville That You Shouldn't Miss
Leadville is the statutory city that is the county seat and only incorporated municipality in Lake County, Colorado, United States. The city population was 2,602 at the 2010 United States Census. Situated at an elevation of 10,152 feet (3,094 m), Leadville is the highest incorporated city and the second highest incorporated municipality in the United States. A former silver mining town that lies near the headwaters of the Arkansas River in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Leadville Historic District contains many historic structures and sites from its dynamic mining era. In the late 19th century, Leadville was the second most populous city in Colorado, after Denver.
Restaurants in Leadville
1. Mayflower Gulch
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 54 reviews
Reviewed By 2gonesomewhere - Marathon, United States
A nice short hike, moderate. You can go 5 miles or so, out and back. Climb a ridge to look out across scenery, examine scattered remnants of Boston Mine/town area. Wildflowers abound in season.
2. Hagerman Tunnel
3. Mount Elbert
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 144 reviews
Reviewed By Tri_Girl22
We did this on Saturday, Sept 5, 2020. We did the south trail and specifically rented a Jeep four wheel drive to access the upper trailhead. We scouted the trailhead a couple of days in advance and found it was no problem for the Jeep. The trailhead area is small but it does fit about 8 vehicles. We got to the trailhead about 4am and starting hiking 4:15am. People were camped at the trailhead. Using headlamps we worked our way well above the treeline for the sunrise (took about 90 min to get above the trees). They was construction going on and that part was a bit rough with loose rocks, otherwise the trail is hard packed dirt almost all the way up. Many rocks and tree roots in parts, but not a lot of loose scree. I used my Salomon trail runners and they worked great. Used hiking poles, very helpful on the way down, had a day pack with 2 litres of water (husband had 3 litres) and we used 4 litres total of water. Temps were in the high 30's when we left, but since the trails takes you up right away, staying warm wasn't an issue until we got above the trees, where I ended up using my goretex rain coat for wind protection. We saw 3 dogs and a baby on the summit, along with MANY other dogs on the way down. Also many mountain bikers hauling their bikes up when we were descending. Distance was 11.6 miles from south trailhead, elevation gain 4,124 ft and our total time was 7 1/2 hours. it was pretty crowded going down, so I would recommend getting above the trees before sunrise.
4. Mineral Belt Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By pamt464 - Houston, United States
While 12 miles sounds rather short, starting at 10k+' and riding up the mountain can be a challenge for flatlanders. We were happy to find Cycles of Life bicycle rentals in downtown Leadville. Even happier that they had several e-bikes. While my husband chose a traditional bicycle, I wasn't too proud to select an e-bike given the elevation. All of the bicycles were top notch in quality. And, Cycles of Life included a bike helmet with the rental at no additional charge. Their courteous and helpful staff--provided guidance on how to easily access the Mineral Belt Trail. The ride was beautiful and offered informative placards along the route which served to explain the mining history of Leadville while giving us an excuse to stop for a short break along the way. TIP #1: If you are interested in renting an e-bike from Cycles of Life, call ahead to reserve since they have a limited number. TIP #2: The Tennessee Pass Cafe located across the street from the bike shop offers well-prepared, fresh food and local beers. Well worth a stop after bicycling.
5. Colorado Midland Centennial Trail
6. Mt. Massive
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By chelslynne - Pensacola, United States
I hiked Massive solo on June 20, 2020. Being from Florida and only in Colorado for 3 days prior to my hike it was pretty difficult. I knew it would be difficult so I took diamox prior to the climb. The climb took me 10 hours! I took plenty of water 3.75 L and snacks because I knew it would take me all day to complete the 14 mile hike. It was beautiful and the scramble along the ridge was fun. There was snow to wade through and slide in. I wouldn’t make this your first fourteener. I did Elbert last year and I think they are pretty comparable. Elbert is less mileage but same elevation gain so in some ways it was more difficult. Get an early start just before sunrise and be prepared to have to walk a little bit from the overflow trailhead parking. The sense of accomplishment is worth the struggle to the top.
7. Twin Lakes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 169 reviews
Formed by a dam, Twin Lakes is surrounded by biking trails and is also enjoyed by fishermen.
Reviewed By 718teresag - Alamosa, United States
We've stopped here several times on our way to/from Aspen to have a picnic lunch beside the lakes. The area is beautiful, especially in fall. There are several primitive camping areas along the lakes.
8. Ski Cooper
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 249 reviews
Ski Cooper is a family-friendly, affordable Colorado ski resort located just outside of historic Leadville, known for short its lift lines, soft snow, and an authentic skiing atmosphere. Base area amenities include a day lodge, cafeteria, Irish pub, rental shop, retail store, adult and children's ski school, and ski patrol. Additionally, a mountain-top Yurt provides on-mountain food and beverage. Cooper is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a quality Colorado skiing experience without having to fight crowds and spend a fortune. Discover why Cooper is truly "The Heart of Skiing in the Heart of the Rockies".
Reviewed By beastie3 - Branson, United States
I say don't read this review because we should look to keep this place secret. This is the perfect ski area if you are looking for reasonable prices, quick lift lines, well maintained and groomed runs, and generally a great ski experience. No Summit County Ski Cooper is not, but they don't claim to be either. Go enjoy a great day of skiing and help keep our little secret.
9. Leadville National Fish Hatchery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
Reviewed By emilyjodavis - Leadville, United States
The Leadville National Fish Hatchery is great for more than just the historic fish hatchery. They have many great hiking and cross country skiing trails accessible from their parking lot. You can even access the Colorado Trail if you follow the connecting trails to it. At the lakes above the hatchery you can learn about the history of the previous lodge that had hosted tourists many years ago. You can still find remnants of the lodge. There is a playground and picnic area accessible from the nature trail, just a short hike from the parking lot. The fish hatchery is easy to get to, right off a paved road just outside of town. Great stop in Leadville accessible year-round
