Twin Lakes General Forest Area

Copyright: Zander Higbie-Interactive Outdoors, Inc. Entering historic Twin Lakes

A few individuals took advantage of this route and created a community that catered to the traveler. The Denver and Rio Grande Railroad also made Twin Lakes one of its stops. Many of the historic charms of this small community remain.

Directions from Leadville: From Leadville travel south on Highway 24 to the junction of Highway 82. Travel west approximately 6 miles to the townsite.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Accessible: May through September (NOTE: Snow may obstruct trails and roads at high elevations.) .

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.

Echo Canyon Trail - This is a short but steep trail. Excellent opportunities for viewing high alpine scenery and wildlife.

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.

Interlaken Interpretive Site - This trail offers an easy walk to the historic resort cabins of Interlaken. Hikers and history buffs can visit the historic Interlaken by following the Colorado Trail along the south side of the lake.

Lakeview Campground - Lakeview Campground is located in the Twin Lakes area, but not immediately on the reservoir. Lakeview is the closest developed campground to the South Mt. Elbert Trailhead.

Parry Peak Campground - Perry Peak Campground is located west of Twin Lakes Reservoir on Highway 82. Many recreation opportunities are accessible from this campground including fishing, canoeing, hiking, motorcycle riding, four-wheel driving and mountain biking.

South Fork Lake Creek Road - South Fork Lake Creek (Forest Road 391) begins at Highway 82 about 8 miles west of Twin Lakes Village and ends at the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness boundary.

Twin Lakes Historic Park - Interpretive panels and historic structures await those interested in the history of the west at this rest area. The surrounding terrain provides endless recreation opportunities.

Twin Peaks Campground - There are five Forest Service Campgrounds in the Twin Lakes area: Dexter, Lakeview, Parry Peak, Twin Peaks and White Star. Thirty-nine sites are available at Twin Peaks Campground on a first come, first serve basis,

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.

Willis Gulch Trail - This is a moderate hike with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. The end destination is Willis Lake and a mine just beyond the lake .