Hiking in Leadville: Hope Pass

Description: Out & Back

Difficulty: Advanced

Length: 9 miles

Notes: Views of Twin Lakes and the upper Arkansas River Drainage. This is the crux of the famed Leadville Trail 100. The trail goes above treeline, dangerous afternoon lightning storms are common. Get an early start and turn back at the first sign of approaching storms. It is especially important that you carry a topographical map of this area. Expect snowfields late in the season.

Getting there: From the traffic light at 6th St. and Harrison Avenue, follow Highway 24 south for approximately 16 miles. Turn right (west) on Highway 82 toward Independence Pass. Follow Highway 82 for 8.3 miles. The trailhead is located on the left (south) side of Highway 82. Keep your eyes open, the Willis Gulch Trailhead will sneak up on you. If you do miss the trailhead entrance, continue west to the entrance for Parry Peak Campground; this is a safe turnaround location.  
 
Hiking Leadville: Please click here and scroll down the page to read important safety information about hiking in remote, high-altitude locations. This information is a cooperative effort of the U.S. Forest Service, San Isabel National Forest, Leadville Ranger District and the Lake County Marketing Action Committee. 

About the Area: Leadville and Twin Lakes are criss-crossed with an incredible network of trails. With an average of 310 days of sunshine a year, more than 35,000 acres within four nationally designated Wilderness Areas, and the state’s highest mountains, Lake County, Colorado, features abundant opportunities for year-round, high-country fun. Plan your trip now! 
 
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