A colorful mountain with the words deadville on the bottom

JOIN OUR GROUP & PROTECT LEADVILLE-TWIN LAKES

Next year when you enjoy a new Mt. Elbert trailhead area or a clean campsite at Halfmoon, you can thank a brand-new local group! Friends of Lake County, started in summer 2023, is helping to protect natural areas near Leadville and Twin Lakes, Colorado. You can also join the group! This work is critical for all of us that love Leadville-Twin Lakes and want to help

#LeaveItBetterThanYouFoundIt

WHAT IS FRIENDS OF LAKE COUNTY?

Local land managers like the U.S. Forest Service are facing a long wish list of stewardship projects due to years of limited staffing and budgets. Friends of Lake County is stepping in with literal boots on the ground, with volunteers ready to support essential projects.


For example, this summer the group created a new kiosk and upgraded the parking area at Mt. Elbert’s Black Cloud trailhead. Volunteers also removed fire rings at campsites along Halfmoon Road, removed fences at May Queen, installed needed signage at Twin Lakes, stained a deck at Crystal Lakes, and conducted road and trail monitoring. At the season’s seven projects, 52 volunteers gave 172 hours of service.

In addition to offering the chance to support local forests and trails, the group gives volunteers the chance to connect with others who have shared values.



Additional partners include Lake County, Friends of Twin Lakes, and Colorado Mountain College – Leadville.

JOIN US NEXT YEAR

Friends of Lake County will be back next summer. Come join us! Even if you are only in Lake County for the weekend, you to can be apart of protecting this wonderful place. Please keep an eye out for a schedule of fun volunteer projects on FriendsOfLakeCounty.com. Or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. If you come out to volunteer, don’t forget to use the hashtag

#LeaveItBetterThanYouFoundIt on your social posts.


Come ready to meet friendly locals and to leave Leadville-Twin Lakes better than you found it!

April 1, 2025
Shops, Snacks & Small-Town Charm in the Heart of Leadville
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. 
April 1, 2025
Saying Farewell to Ski Season in Leadville
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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 .
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 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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