Located off of U.S. Highway 91 and just past Copper Mountain is Leadville. Leadville is a hidden gem in central Colorado. This old mining town is an easy drive from Denver and Colorado Springs.
Leadville was a major mining town in the late 1800s and was almost named the state capital. Leadville is one of the last authentic old west mining towns left in America. It is a charming place and the people are fabulous.
At a very high elevation this town is a hub for extreme sports. In fact, Leadville is located in a high mountain valley surrounded by snow peaks making it the highest incorporated town in North America at a registered elevation of 10,430 feet. With sunshine more than 300 days a year and summer temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees, Leadville has been a mountain town destination for tons of out of state visitiors.
Being a legendary mining town, there are 20 square miles of preserved mining district and over 70 square blocks of Victorian style houses and buildings to add to the historic charm. Historic restaurants and saloons line the main street.
If you really want to obtain a little piece of history you need to visit Pastime Bar on 2nd Street off of Harrison Avenue. Established in 1878, this place used to be a brothel and a saloon that catered to old west figures such as Doc Holliday, Jesse James, Texas Jack, and many others. Be sure to visit the National Mining Hall Of Fame and Museum if you’re interested in how this powerful industry helped shape the state of Colorado. If you’re looking to soak in some views of this high elevation region, take a scenic train ride with Leadville, Colorado and Southern Railroad Company.
Being located just 20 minutes from AVA’s Rafting outpost in Granite, this is a great destination to stop by, stay in, or simply drive through on your way to the Arkansas River.
