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Things to Do in Leadville, Colorado in the Winter

Writer's picture: Whitney ClarksonWhitney Clarkson

A skier in deep snow alpine skiing at Ski Cooper from the Chicago Basin snowcat

Experience winter in North America's highest incorporated city. At 10,152 feet, Leadville transforms from a historical mining town into a snow-covered playground from November through April. The combination of Victorian-era architecture and snow-capped peaks creates a unique winter destination with adventure and historical charm. The town's heritage is visible everywhere, from the preserved 1800s buildings to the historic ski slopes once used by 10th Mountain Division soldiers.


Skiing & Snowboarding


The Ski Cooper snowcat dropping off skiers and snowboarders
Ski Cooper - Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours


  • Home to over 480 acres of skiable terrain across 60 named trails

  • Rich in history as a training ground for 10th Mountain Division troops during WWII

  • Authentic Colorado skiing experience without the crowds or high prices of mega-resorts

  • Natural snow skiing with an average annual snowfall of 260 inches

  • Wide, groomed runs and minimal lift lines are perfect for families

  • Excellent ski school programs for beginners

  • Ski Cooper is 11.0 miles from The Silver Rose Leadville



  • Access to 2,600 acres of untouched powder in the San Isabel and White River National Forests

  • Professional guides lead small groups through backcountry terrain

  • Full-day adventures in a heated snowcat

  • Multiple bowls, glades, and chutes ranging from 11,400 to 12,600 feet

  • Average run length of 1,000-2,000 vertical feet

  • Suitable for strong intermediate to expert skiers


Nordic & Cross-Country Adventures


Young woman cross country skiing in Leadville Colorado at the Mount Massive golf course groomed trails with beautiful mountain views in the background
Mt. Massive Golf Course

Tennessee Pass Nordic Center - https://www.tennesseepass.com/nordic-center/

  • Over 27 kilometers of groomed trails for all ability levels

  • Equipment rentals including classic skis, skate skis, and snowshoes

  • Professional instruction is available for beginners to advanced skiers

  • Unique dinner yurt experiences

  • Heated lodge with restaurant and bar

  • Shares the Ski Cooper parking lot


  • Historic 11.6-mile groomed loop circling Leadville

  • Passes through mining district with interpretive signs about local history

  • Spectacular views of Colorado's highest peaks

  • Regularly groomed for both classic and skate skiing

  • Lit for night skiing through winter months on a 3-mile section

  • Free access and pet-friendly

  • Less than a mile from the Silver Rose


  • Transforms into a groomed Nordic center during winter months

  • Over 10 kilometers of groomed trails across rolling terrain

  • Affordable trail fees (typically under $10)

  • Great for beginners due to the gentle terrain

  • Dog-friendly when on a leash

  • Perfect for both classic and skate skiing techniques

  • Only 3 miles from The Silver Rose


Winter Family Adventures


Wintertime on the Leadville Colorado Railroad
Leadville Railraod

Leadville Colorado Railroad Winter Experiences - https://leadvillerailroad.com/winter/

  • Vintage narrow-gauge railroad operating winter excursions

  • Spectacular mountain views of the Sawatch and Mosquito Mountain ranges

  • Heated passenger cars with large viewing windows

  • Trips range from 1-2 hours in length

  • Covers historic mining routes through snow-covered landscapes

  • Hot cocoa and blankets are provided on most winter trips

  • The train station is 0.8 miles from the Silver Rose


  • Dutch Henry Hill offers free sledding with stunning mountain views

  • Rental equipment is available, or The Silver Rose has two sleds for use

  • Two miles from the Silver Rose



Colorado Dog Sledding Experiences


Young woman on a dog sled mushing with Alpine Adventures in Leadville Colorado
Alpine Adventures Dog Sledding

Alpine Adventures Dog Sledding - https://www.alpineadventuresdogsledding.com/Alpine based near Tennessee Pass


  • Professional mushers with decades of experience

  • Multiple tour options from 1-hour to full-day experiences

  • Teams of Alaskan and Siberian huskies

  • Hands-on mushing lessons

  • See the Silver Rose blog article on our dog sledding adventure



Winter Events & Festivals


Ski joring on Harrison Avenue main street in Leadville Colorado
Ski Joring in Leadville, Colorado
  • An annual event that takes place the first weekend of March and combines horses, riders, and skiers

  • Skiers pulled through an obstacle course down Harrison Avenue at high speeds

  • Downtown festival with food vendors and live music

  • Historic tradition dating back to Leadville's mining days

  • A short walk downtown from the Silver Rose



  • Fat bike races throughout the winter season

  • Multiple categories for different skill levels

  • Groomed courses through scenic terrain

  • Night racing events with lights

  • Post-race celebrations at local establishments


Motorized Winter Adventures


Snowmobiling


  • Winter Razor tours on groomed trails

  • Heated cab options are available

  • 2, 4, and 6-seat vehicles available


The Silver Rose of Leadville provides a cozy yet elegant mountain home where you can unwind by the fire after an exhilarating day of winter adventures. Whether you've spent your day carving through fresh powder at Ski Cooper, exploring backcountry trails, or snowmobiling in the surrounding mountains, returning to this spacious home that combines mountain luxury with authentic Old West heritage will make your vacation unforgettable.




 

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