Trail Overview
This route is mostly one vehicle wide, with plenty of wider areas available for passing. The surface consists primarily of packed dirt and gravel with scattered loose and embedded rocks. Much of the route travels through open high-elevation meadows and rolling hillsides dotted with small evergreens before passing through areas of denser pine and spruce forest. Several sections provide expansive views across the surrounding mountains and valleys. While much of the road appears maintained, a short section is prone to water erosion and washouts, creating uneven terrain that may require some suspension flex. Rocks up to approximately 8 inches in diameter are also present in this section, making high clearance recommended. Remnants of old mining structures can be found along the route, reflecting the area's extensive mining history.
Difficulty
The route is primarily packed dirt and gravel with scattered loose and embedded rocks. A short section is prone to washouts and water erosion, creating uneven terrain that may require some suspension flex, with rocks up to approximately 8 inches in diameter. High clearance is recommended, but there are no major obstacles.
History
Leadville's surrounding mountains are heavily connected to Colorado's mining history. Mining booms beginning in the 1860s transformed the area, with gold, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum, and other minerals driving development over different periods. Many roads and routes throughout the mountains originated as access to mines, claims, settlements, and other industrial sites. Remnants of this history can still be found throughout the area, including mine workings, foundations, structures, and old transportation corridors. Leadville was also once home to the Unsinkable Molly Brown, who lived in the city during its mining boom and met and married J.J. Brown there. Doc Holliday also called Leadville home during the 1880s, spending time in the city's saloons and gambling halls during one of its most colorful periods. Leadville itself is recognized as a National Historic Landmark District.
