Twin Lakes is a quick, fun stop for those traveling around Leadville. It’s a semi-ghost town located west of the intersection of Highway 24 and Colorado 82 (Independence Pass).
There are several original buildings, including a once-rowdy saloon, 2 hotels, and some old cabins. The town is named after the two lakes beside it.
Interlaken, a famous hotel from 1890, sits outside the main town on the southern shore of the upper lake. The former Red Rooster Tavern is the Visitor Center. Across the street from the ghost town are a presently operating restaurant, general store/post office, and lodging options.
History
Prospectors founded the first village here, Dayton, in the 1860s. After a bust in mining, the silver rush brought the area back to life and Dayton was named Twin Lakes.
In 1885 a guide to Colorado named it “..the most charming summer resort in Colorado.” It had 3 hotels, several saloons, and many log cabins. There was also mining done in the area and Twin Lakes was a transportation hub between Leadville and Aspen.
Getting There
Head south from Leadville on Hwy 24 and make a right onto CO 82 (in 10-15 minutes). The historic town of Twin Lakes will be a few miles up on the left, while the road continues to Independence Pass.
Details
Address: CO 82, Twin Lakes, CO 81251
Nearby Town: Leadville (21mi)
County: Lake County
Roads: 2WD
Season: Year-round