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Leadville Ranger District

Quick Facts

Interlaken Interpretive Site

Beginning Elevation:	9,200 Feet (2867.8 Meters)
Difficulty:	Easy
Elevation:	9,600 Feet (2992.5 Meters)
Ending Elevation:	9,200 Feet (2867.8 Meters)
Length, One-way:	3 Miles (5.0 Kilometers)
Other Maps:	Trails Illustrated 110 Leadville, Fairplay
Trail Number:	1,776

General Description

This building and a few others stand as the remains of the mountain resort community of Twin Lakes

Copyright: Loretta McEllhiney-USDA Forest Service
This building and a few others stand as the remains of the mountain resort community of Twin Lakes

By 1885 tourism was thriving in and around Twin Lakes, due to the traffic between the silver mining towns of Leadville and Aspen. Interlaken, a famous resort on the southern shore of the lower lake, was in full operation, catering to the rich and famous. James V. Dexter, a Denver-Leadville mining magnate, who had purchased the original hotel on the lakeshore, along with 2,000 acres of prime real estate, owned it. The area became a favorite boating, fishing and hunting area. People came from all over to experience the beauty and splendor of the Lake Creek Valley.

Today, hikers and history buffs can visit the historic Interlaken by following the Colorado Trail along the south side of the lake, beginning at the dam. This trail offers an easy walk to the historic resort cabins of Interlaken. From the southeast side of the dam follow this trail along the lakeside or continue up to Hope Pass. Excellent views and fishing opportunities.

Directions from Leadville: To reach Twin Lakes from Leadville, drive south on Highway 24 approximately 20 miles. Take a right on Highway 82 toward Independence Pass. Travel about one mile to a road to the left. That will take you to the Colorado Trail, which follows the southern shore of the lakes.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Accessible: April through September (NOTE: Snow and mud may obstruct the trail.) .

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

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Recreation Opportunities

Activity		Remarks	On Site
	Backpacking	Colorado Trail	No
	Boating	Twin Lakes	No
	History	Interlaken Interpretive Site	Yes
	Cold Water Fishing	Twin Lakes	No
	Horseback Riding	Colorado Trail	Yes
	Canoeing	Twin Lakes	No
	Viewing Interpretive Signs	Interlaken Interpretive Site	Yes

Related Activities

Colorado Trail (Twin Lakes to Clear Creek Rd.) - This segment of the Colorado Trail leads from Twin Lakes Reservoir to Clear Creek Road. It is a popular segment that is used by many runners training for the long-distance foot race the Leadville 100.

Dexter Campground - There are five Forest Service Campgrounds in the Twin Lakes area: Dexter, Lakeview, Parry Peak, Twin Peaks and White Star. Dexter Campground has 24 sites that are filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Hope Pass Trail - Hope Pass is also the Colorado Trail that leads to Clear Creek Road. There is about 3,200 feet elevation gain up to 12,500 feet at the pass.

Mt. Elbert Family Picnic Ground - Mt. Elbert Family Picnic Ground is located on the northern shore of Twin Lakes Reservoir east of the Mt. Elbert Power Plant. Visitors who use this facility will have access to the lakes as well as the surrounding terrain.

Whitestar Campground - Whitestar Family Campground is one of five campgrounds surrounding Twin Lakes Reservoir. Reservation status of the 68 campsites at Whitestar vary between first come, first serve and reservations accepted.