Winter Activities

What do you get when you combine over 200 inches of annual snowfall with 300 plus days of sunshine? Quite simply the finest winter playground in all of Colorado. Lake County is a backcountry paradise for skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers. Our 12 mile groomed Mineral Belt Trail winds its way through the solitude of the historic mining district and provides an exceptional cross country skiing and snowshoeing experience. Ski Cooper remains the most family friendly ski area in all of Colorado, with an abundance of all-natural snow, absence of crowds and a rich history as the birthplace of the Tenth Mountain Division. Ice fishermen delight in the long seasons at Turquoise Lake, Twin Lakes, and the Mt. Elbert Forebay. In short, Lake County offers an inexhaustible mix of wintertime activities. As the highest county in Rocky Mountains, you'd expect nothing less. Check out the Leadville Cross Country Ski Council website for up to date grooming information and maps.

Dutch Henry Tubing Hill

Operating from December through April The Dutch Henry Tubing hill has high speed fun for all ages! Tubes are rented by the hour and 4 lanes offer the ability to choose your own adventure. Learn more by visiting the Dutch Henry facility page.

Huck Finn Ice Rink

Skating fun can be had at the Huck Finn Ice Rink from December through February (weather permitting). The highest, man-made ice rink in Colorado offers outdoor fun as well as warm indoor seating for those just wanting to watch. Learn more by visiting the Huck Finn facility page.

Downhill Skiing

Visit Ski Cooper online or call 719-486-2277 for information, including rates and reservations for backcountry skiing with Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours.

Nordic Skiing

Visit the Leadville Cross Country Ski Council page for all things Nordic including local grooming reports, maps and ways to support groomed trails.

Snowmobiling, Ice Fishing, Fat Biking & Snowshoeing

For information on local business to support all of your outdoor fun including gear and guided activities, visit the Leadville-Twin Lakes Visitors Site. For information about approved activities, trails and maps, contact the Leadville Ranger District.

Skijoring

What do you get when you combine cowboys, horses and skiers and send them careening down one of Colorado's most picturesque Victorian avenues? You get one of Lake County's most celebrated winter festivals - Crystal Carnival and Skijoring Weekend. Don't miss the fun this winter from March 4 to 5, 2023. Learn more about Ski Joring by visiting their website.