This Victorian town of 2,612 people is known as “Cloud City” for good reason.

At an elevation of 10,200 feet, Leadville is often shrouded in cloud.

Despite its origins as a mining center, Leadville has turned its attention to restoring many of its fine old Victorian structures, making it more tourist-friendly.

During its heyday, Leadville produced $82 million worth of silver, and its downtown region still shows signs of that bygone prosperity.

The Western Hardware Company and the Silver Dollar Saloon are just some of the buildings that were built during the late nineteenth century. The stately Tabor Grand Hotel and the Tabor Opera House, built by former US senator and Leadville’s first mayor, Horace Tabor, are still the town’s finest.

Visitors can stroll down to the local Chamber of Commerce for a map of the Route of the Silver Kings. This is located east of town and covers the spectrum of mining structures, abandoned shacks, and old mine-shafts. Leadville’s Heritage Museum showcases a wealth of mining artifacts, the most interesting being the replica of its famed Ice Palace. The splendid Healy House and neighboring Dexter Cabin reflect Leadville’s blend of citizens. Operated by the Colorado Historical Society, tours are conducted by costumed guides.

Leadville offers a wealth of recreational opportunities including camping, hiking, and skiing. About 10 miles north of town is Ski Cooper, which was once a training center for the famous 10th Mountain Division troops, who were trained to fight in this type of terrain. The surviving soldiers returned to the region after the war to help establish the new resorts of Aspen and Vail. Ski Cooper’s terrain is perfect for the advanced or intermediate skier.

Leadville is located at the junction of Hwys 24 and 91. Renting a car in Denver is the best way to explore the mining town.