A colorful mountain with the words deadville on the bottom

Winter Adventures 101: Trails, Avalanche Safety, and Yes…Your Poop Plan

Hello outdoor adventurers! Winter fun in Leadville and Twin Lakes starts with knowledge and preparation—let’s make your adventures safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

Photo: @leadvillehome


1) PLAN AHEAD


Let’s start with the question on everyone’s mind: what’s your poop plan?  Snow doesn’t break down your poo, so keep it out of sight and away from water sources! Follow these tips to keep the outdoors clean and pristine. 


  • Plan ahead: Take care of business before you hit the trail! 


  • Pack it out: No bathroom in sight? No worries! Use WAG bags (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) to pack out your poop safely. The special powder turns it into a gel – no need to worry about "liquid" problems!
  • WAG bags are available for sale from many retailers, and locally at the Leadville Visitor Center and Leadville Outdoors 


  • Back-up method: Forgot your WAG bag? Well, bag it like a responsible pet owner! But remember, don't toss it in the trash – give it a proper toilet send-off at home.


  • Last resort: If you're in a real pickle, get 200 feet away from water, trails, and campsites, and bury it in deep snow.


Photo: @silverroseleadville


“Going” outside isn’t the only activity that requires planning. Because winter weekends and holidays can get busy, please plan for crowded trailheads. Always have a Plan B in case your first choice is full. Check out the Leadville Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map or download local maps on Avenza to explore less popular spots.


These trailheads are especially likely to be busy:


  • Chalk Creek
  • On Highway 91 between Fremont Pass and Leadville 
  • Popular with snowmobilers and backcountry skiers


  • Tennessee Pass
  • On Highway 24 across from the entrance to Ski Cooper 
  • Popular with Nordic skiers and snowshoers


  • Upper Arkansas
  • On Highway 91 just south of Fremont Pass 
  • Popular with backcountry skiers


These areas may have fewer visitors:


  • Half Moon Road
  • Follow Highway 24 a few miles south of Leadville, turn right on County Road 300 just past Saturday’s Market/Gas Station. The next road on the left is County Road 11. After about a mile, County Road 11 turns right, then dead-ends at a parking area. 
  • Used for snowmobiling, backcountry and cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing


  • Hayden Meadows
  • Non-motorized use only
  • Approximately 10 miles south of Leadville, the Hayden Reservoir recreation area is on the left immediately after crossing a bridge over the Arkansas River
  • Stay on the trail leading away from the parking area directly south to avoid elk wintering grounds; do not cross the pedestrian bridge


  • Turquoise Lake Road
  • Off County Road 4 just 5 miles west of Leadville, parking area in front of dam
  • Groomed trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing 


Photo: @aspenchristy


2) BE AVALANCHE AWARE


Exploring the backcountry in winter can be exhilarating—but it comes with serious risks. Every year avalanches injure and kill backcountry visitors in Colorado, consistently making us the state with the most avalanche fatalities. To stay safe, preparation is key. Before you head out, make sure you know how to identify and avoid avalanche terrain, or better yet, have formal training and the right gear to handle it. Not quite there yet? Stick to safer trails or team up with someone experienced.


Here’s how to get started:



  • Take an avalanche course: Sign up with CAIC or another trusted organization to learn essential skills, from terrain assessment to rescue techniques.


COTREX now contains daily avalanche forecasts from CAIC! Simply turn on the avalanche feature on the COTREX website or free app and quickly see the current avalanche conditions at your trail. 



3) RESPECT OTHERS AND WILDLIFE


Our trails are popular – and for good reason! You might meet people on snowshoes, snowmobiles, skis, or bikes. Please be respectful. Here are some tips to help everyone enjoy the trails:


  • Leash Dogs. Please keep your pup on a leash at all times, for their safety and to respect others. Doing so also protects wildlife trying to survive the cold winter.


  • Share the Trail. If you’re on a snowmobile or snow bike, slow down when passing skiers, snowshoers, or bikers and give them plenty of space. On skis, snowshoes, or bikes? Step aside when motorized users approach.


  • Stay Sober. Driving a snowmobile under the influence isn’t just dangerous—it’s illegal.


Avoid Ski Tracks. If you spot ski tracks along the trail, please don’t snowshoe, walk, or bike on them. Your skier friends will thank you!


Photo: @shelleysamone


MORE WINTER BACKCOUNTRY SAFETY TIPS

See more winter safety tips here and check out how to be backcountry smart from the Colorado Tourism Office.


FIND LOCAL GUIDES & OUTFITTERS

New to the backcountry or need an experienced guide? Find local winter outfitters in Leadville-Twin Lakes. You can also learn to ski and snowboard, Nordic ski, and snowshoe in Leadville-Twin Lakes.



GIVE BACK

You can also support backcountry safety by donating to Lake County Search & Rescue! Please help these dedicated local volunteers, who willingly brave dangerous conditions to save lives.


Thanks for reading—now get out there and have a safe, fun-filled adventure!


Featured photo: @galenamountainprojects

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 !

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).

Ski Cooper: Affordable, Family-Friendly, and Close to Denver

January 2, 2025
Fun in the Snow at Ski Cooper If you're searching for an authentic mountain experience filled with fun in the snow, Ski Cooper near Leadville, Colorado, is your perfect winter destination. Here's why this hidden gem stands out among Colorado's ski areas.

The Rise of Fat Biking in Leadville: Fun in the Snow

January 2, 2025
Fat biking has surged in popularity over the past decade, and nowhere is this more evident than in Leadville. With stunning mountain landscapes and groomed winter trails, Leadville has become a premier destination for fat biking enthusiasts. Its growing reputation helped bring the Fat Bike World Championships back to Colorado in 2024. This year, the event is staying in Colorado for a second year in a row, returning to Crested Butte (where it all started), marking its 10th anniversary. 

10 Unique Ways to Warm Up this Winter

December 23, 2024
While Leadville-Twin Lakes, Colorado, is known for abundant winter activities, it also offers plenty of great things to do inside. When you need a winter warmup, explore these off-the-beaten-path indoors options!
More Posts
Share by: