“These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb.”
-Najwa Zebian
Leadville, Colorado: The Road Less Travelled
We are living in a time of uncertainty. I am sure we can all relate when I say, we have all been feeling a little heavy and stuck at home. With states slowly lifting regulations, there’s no better time than to take a load off and explore your own backyard.
The Destination? Leadville, Colorado.
Have you heard of it? Leadville, Colorado is the highest city in the United States sitting at 10,200 feet. Coming from Denver its a 1.5 hour drive, so while Denver sits at 5,280 feet, I definitely felt the change in elevation.
What to Do? Lots!
While Leadville was once the second most populous city in Colorado, it has dwindled to an intimate city of less than 3,000 residents. This former silver mining town has not lost its charm though. Leadville, Colorado is the road less travelled.
My number one recommendation is to take the Leadville train. This 2.5 hour scenic ride takes you through breathtaking views of the mountains. The friendly train conductor runs you through the rich history of Leadville for the first half of the ride. There are snacks and beers for purchase as well. So the perfect way to take in the sights on a beautiful day with a beverage in hand.
Can’t beat these views right:
The main strip of Leadville is only a few blocks long but there are tons of restaurants to choose from, cute shops and outdoor shops. Leadville is a haven for athletes that come from all over the world to train at 10,000 feet as well as thru hikers passing by along the Colorado trail.
The Outdoors? Let’s go
Mount Massive:
Leadville is the perfect chance to check off a 14er. Mount Massive offers a 14 mile hike with a 4,533 elevation gain. Did I do it? No, not this time. 😉
Turquoise Lake:
Instead, I opted for an afternoon of relaxation at Turquoise Lake. Thanks to the history offered on the Leadville Railroad, I was informed that the lake is not turquoise in color but named for its past of rare turquoise deposits found near the lake.
But don’t worry, it’s still a beautiful lake. This large lake gives you tons of opportunities to swim, kayak, boat, fish or just relax on the sandy shore.
Clinton Gulch Reservoir
Between Frisco and Leadville lies this 2.4 mile reservoir hike around the Clinton Gulch Dam. Bring some snacks, dip your toes in the icy water and soak in the views of the valley.
Colorado offers tons of big name destinations we are all familiar with so take the time to enjoy the road less travelled in Leadville, Colorado. Head on over to the good ole’ city that lies among the source of the Arkansas River in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
The air at 10,200 feet hits different. Try it for yourself!
Recommendations
Accommodation
The Delaware Hotel: 130 year old Victorian style hotel located in the main strip.
Tiny Home Village: 7 tiny homes of various sizes located within walking distance of the main strip.
*Care to camp? Check out my guide to camping nearby at Twin Lakes.
Safety
HEY! We are still amidst a pandemic. Please look out for one another by practicing safe habits and social distancing. Stay updated with the CDC guidelines to keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19.
