Experiences
Leadville and the Upper Arkansas River Valley offer a multitude of some of Colorado’s best fun and rewarding experiences for the whole family.
Hike the two highest “Fourteeners” in the state
Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert trailheads are just a few miles away from The Rolling J – these are 6-8 hour hikes and are not for beginners.
Ride The Copper Triangle
At almost 10,000 feet above sea level any athletic endeavor is that much harder. The Copper Triangle road bike route makes a circle from Leadville over Tennessee Pass, down to Vail, then up Vail pass, down to Copper Mountain, then up Fremont pass and finally back down into Leadville.
Visit The National Mining Hall of Fame
In the late 1800’s, Leadville was once the richest city in America, due to its gold and silver riches.
Drive, Hike, Mountain Bike the Route of The Silver Kings
Follow this 8 mile route (much of it dirt roads) through the adjacent hills to the remains of some of the most prolific gold and silver mines in American History.
Hike, Run, Mountain Bike The Mineral Belt Trail
Enjoy this almost 12-mile paved loop through aspen groves, wildflower meadows and the historic mining district.
Drink Hand Crafted Microbrews
Bring in your own food and check out Leadville’s own microbrewery, The Periodic Brewery.
Have a Shot...of Whiskey at the Legendary Silver Dollar Saloon
Doc Holiday, Oscar Wilde and The Unsinkable Molly Brown were just a few of the regulars that frequented this historic saloon.
Grab some Grub
Good Food Abounds. Some of Brice and Mike’s Favs include: Tennessee Pass Cafe, High Mountain Pies, Qunicy’s, Leadville Grill & Bar and for something a little fancier check out The Treeline Kitchen.
Take a Tour of The Matchless Mine
Purchased in 1879 by Silver King H.A.W. Tabor, the Matchless Mine was one of the richest silver mines of the era, with production rates surpassing the Comstock Lode of Nevada. Learn more about the rags to riches to rags again fate of Tabor’s.
Live Music at The Tabor Opera House
Built in 1879, The Tabor Opera House offers live music throughout the Summer.
Enjoy An Afternoon On The Leadville RailRoad
Originating in “the highest incorporated city in North America,” the LC&S takes passengers along the old Denver, South Park & Pacific, and Colorado & Southern lines to the Continental Divide.
More Information at The Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad
Make Powder Turns
Within 45 Minutes, one can be on a chairlift at Vail, Beaver Creek and Copper Mountain. Within 60 minutes, one can reach Breckenridge and Keystone. Within 90 minutes, Loveland, Arapahoe Basin and Monarch are options. For a more mellow experience, yet still fun and challenging, check out Ski Cooper 20 minutes away just outside of Leadville.
Learn And See How Trout Are Grown
Leadville National Fish Hatchery (NFH), established in 1889, is the second oldest Federally operated fish hatchery in existence today. It’s one of only a few places in the world where the native Greenback Cutthroat can be seen.
