The Art of Mud Season
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.
What is Mud Season?
Mud season happens when the snowpack begins to melt but the ground beneath is still thawing. The result? Wet, soft, and muddy trails across many parts of the region. In high-altitude towns like Leadville and Twin Lakes, this can last from late March through May.
The rhythm of warm days and cold nights creates a freeze-thaw cycle that saturates the ground, making both trails and dirt roads especially vulnerable to damage. That’s why mud season is not just about hiking differently—it’s about hiking thoughtfully.
Why It Matters: The Impact of a Single Step
It might feel harmless to step around a puddle, but that one footprint can cause lasting harm. Trampling on fragile soil destroys more than just grass—it can damage tree saplings, cryptobiotic soils, insect habitats, and the fungi that help plants regrow. Erosion can continue long after your boots are gone, and what takes a year to recover in one place could take 25 years or more in a high-alpine environment like ours.
That’s why practicing good stewardship isn’t just about doing the right thing today—it’s about protecting our trails for decades to come.
Mud Season Trail Etiquette: How to Leave No Trace
Here’s how to enjoy spring responsibly in Leadville and Twin Lakes while helping our landscape stay healthy:
Hike Through the Mud, Not Around It
Walking around muddy sections of trail may seem like a simple solution, but it causes trail widening and erosion. Instead, walk right through the mud—with waterproof boots and gaiters if you have them. Your gear will dry overnight; the trail won’t recover so easily.
Choose Trails Wisely
Stick to south-facing trails, which tend to dry out faster. If a trail looks particularly muddy or flooded, turn around and opt for a different hike. South-facing sections of the paved Mineral Belt Trail or paved roads like Turquoise Lake Road are great spring alternatives near Leadville. At a lower elevation, Twin Lakes can offer drier trails, like the Interlaken Resort Trail or the Colorado/Continental Divide Trail sections around the lakes. A more advanced uphill paved option includes Independence Pass Road before it's opening date.
Time Your Adventure
Plan your hike or run in the early morning or late afternoon. Cooler temperatures mean firmer ground, reducing the chances of slipping and trail damage.
Dress for the Conditions
Weather in spring is unpredictable. Check the forecast and trail conditions before heading out. Bring warm layers, waterproof footwear, and rain gear—and don’t forget those gaiters!
Respect Trail Closures
If a trail or road is closed, it’s for a reason. Seasonal closures protect sensitive areas during thaw and reduce long-term damage. Please respect these signs—they help us keep access open in the long run.
Plan Ahead & Start Small
Spring is also a time to ease back into outdoor activity after winter. Choose shorter hikes, assess your group’s fitness and skill level, and be ready to turn back if conditions worsen. Conditions can vary dramatically with elevation, so research your route in advance.
Embrace the Art of Mud Season
Mud season may not always have bluebird skies or dry trails, but it does offer its own kind of magic. Wildlife reappears, mountains are still snow capped, landscapes shift daily, and Leadville slows down just enough for you to catch your breath. It’s a time for cozy coffee shop visits, relaxing museum afternoons, and quiet moments on local paths that are drying by the day.
By hiking responsibly, dressing for the season, and honoring trail conditions, you’re not just taking care of yourself, you’re taking care of the place you love.
Let’s enjoy spring without leaving a trace. Learn more about planning your visit and finding spring-friendly activities at www.LeadvilleTwinLakes.com.
