Fly Colorado :: Leadville

Leadville, CO

At its peak, Leadville could lay claim to being the largest, richest, rowdiest and longest-producing Western mining town of all times. At 10,200 feet, it is the highest incorporated city in North America. Located in an alpine valley along the Sawatch Range, Leadville is filled with Victorian charm and outdoor adventure. The friendly and accommodating staff at the airport makes every trip a memorable experience whether it’s a quick stop for some of the cheapest avgas in the state or a trip in to town to take in the sights.

Leadville’s colorful history is evidenced as you pass by the collection of buildings to the abandoned mines. Mining began in Leadville in 1860 and continued until the closure of the Asarco Black Cloud Mine in 1999. During the Silver Boom from the mid 1870’s through the 1880’s, the population grew to over 30,000 residents and was served by three railroads, an opera house and over 100 saloons, brothels and dance halls. However, the mineral that gave Leadville its’ long-term prosperity was molybdenum. The Climax Mine, established in 1914, would become the largest underground mine in the world. The molybdenum market collapsed in 1981 and Climax suspended production soon after.

With more museums per capita than any town in Colorado, Leadville is a designated National Historic Landmark District with 50 buildings dating back to the 1800’s. 67 mines east of the city are also part of the Historic Landmark District. Some of the note-worthy sites to explore are the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, Healy House Museum and Dexter Cabin, Heritage Museum, Tabor Opera House, Matchless Mine and Tabor House. The Mineral Belt Trail, an 11.6 mile all-season trail, provides a great opportunity to see significant historic sites while offering scenic views of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges.

Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Leadville offers year-round recreation with more than 35,000 acres within four nationally designated wilderness areas. In the summer, you can climb the second tallest mountain, Mt. Massive, mountain bike, hike or camp and fish at Colorado’s largest glacier lake, Twin Lakes. Board the Leadville Colorado and Southern Railroad for a 2 ½ hour scenic journey through the Arkansas River Valley. For the elite athlete, Leadville hosts two high elevation competitions: the Leadville 100 Ultra Marathon and the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race. There are cold weather activities for everyone including alpine and telemark skiing, Nordic and cross country, sledding and snowmobiling. Ski Cooper is one of the best values in Colorado and has historic roots as the WWII training site for the 10^th Mountain Division soldiers.

With its unparalleled alpine scenery and storied mining history, Leadville preserves the human tenacity that defines the area and welcomes others to enjoy the breath-taking natural elements.

Airport Info

FAA ID:	LXV
Location	N39º13.22' W106 º19.00'
Elevation:	9927’ MSL
Airport Manager:	Michael Huemann
Airport Phone:	719-486-0307
After-Hours Phone:	719-293-5110
CTAF:	122.8
ASOS:	118.375
ASOS Phone:	719-486-2735
Fuel:	100LL-(24hrs w/ CC) /JetA
Courtesy Car:	Yes - Multiple
Attendance:	0800L-1700L Daily