Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Top of the Rockies
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Mileage: 115 miles
Why Go?
You'll cross three mountain passes, drop into four watersheds and glimpse Colorado's
tallest peaks, as well as the headwaters of the Arkansas River. Not bad for a day's drive.
Historic Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the US, which made its name and plenty
of cash in the silver boom, is the hub of this drive, which can be done in two phases.
The Route
Start in Leadville. After a wander through the National Historic District (check out the
Delaware Hotel), grab a slice at High Mountain Pies - the local favorite is usually packed.
Head north from town on Hwy 91 over Fremont Pass before meeting up with I-70 west of
Frisco.
Take the interstate past Vail to Hwy 24, where if you time it right you can have a stroll
through a terrific farmers market in downtown Minturn, drive through tiny Red Cliff, pay
homage to the 10th Mountain Division, and perhaps get some stellar rock climbing in at
Camp Hale, before swerving up and over Tennessee Pass where Mt Massive looms su-
preme as you drive south through Leadville.
Further south, Mt Elbert dominates the horizon. Hang a right on Hwy 82 and head up to
Twin Lakes, a historic mining town with some ruins on the lake shore, three inns, spectacu-
lar mountain and lake views and countless stars. Bed down here or drive up and over
Independence Pass and into Aspen (summer only).
When to Go
Roads are open year-round, with the least advantageous time being 'mud season' (April to
June), when ski resorts and some of their infrastructure closes and weather hovers between
winter and warmth.
