Leadville has been hosting a ski joring race for 73 years now. The snow is packed down on the street and then horse-and-riders pull skiers behind them while going off jumps.
Yep, you read that right. Ski Cooper has 59 trails served by 5 lifts that span 470 lift-served acres. SkiCooper is the closest ski mountain to Leadville (10 minute drive). Because of its base elevation and an average of 260" of snow every year, the snow stays dry and fluffy.
"Soak in spectacular scenery as we climb along the Continental Divide with dozens of Colorado’s highest peaks in view. Enjoy remarkable runs with small groups and a guide" just on the other side of SkiCooper.
20 miles away from Leadville is Copper Mountain Ski Resort, another great place for skiing or snowboarding. World class resort and part of the Ikon Pass.
Nordic skiing is a great way to explore miles and miles of the area. If skiing isn't really for you then don't worry! Rent a pair of snowshoes to adventure on foot.
Biking is a year-round event here in Colorado. After you rent your bike in town, take it to Mineral Belt Trail, the Historic Mining District, or Turquoise Lake -- some of Leadville's most popular trail for fat tire biking.
Go on a guided trail tour (roughly 2 hours in duration and self-driven) or a High Adventure "for the more experienced rider seeking a personal experience on ungroomed terrain on the most sophisticated equipment".
Covered and heated UTVs that seat 4 people. "It’s a great option for families and groups with mixed skills." Drive alone or tag along with a guide to explore the Rockies.
Huck Finn Ice Rink is the largest man-made ice skating rink in Colorado and it's right here in Leadville! Bring your own skates or rent them from rink!
Go out to Turquoise Lake, Twin Lakes, or Clear Creek Reservoir for the best ice fishing in Leadville. For a more secluded experience, try Hayden meadows or Crystal Lakes which are just south of Leadville.
Visit this award-winning frozen attraction that is only a 40-minute drive from Leadville. There are ice mazes, slides, and plenty of caverns to explore here. It is the perfect excursion for kids and adults. They even have private alcoves you can book perfect for a special occasion.
Experience Colorado's natural heated pools this winter in Buena Vista. Cottonwood Hot Springs and Mount Princeton Hot Springs are both located here, just an hour south of Leadville.
