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Twin Lakes Recreation Area

 Located nearly in the center of the Leadville Ranger District, the Twin Lakes Recreation Area provides many different opportunites for recreation. Scenic drivers and road cyclists can enjoy the beautiful Independence Pass, and view the aspens in fall, which draw thousands of people every year. Hikers can enjoy the nearby Interlaken trail and Big Willis Gulch trail, while also taking in some of the historic sites, such as the Twin Lakes Historic Village and Interlaken Historic Resort. Twin Lakes also hosts many sites for fishing, camping, and sight-seeing. On either side of Twin Lakes rise fourteeners such as Mt. Elbert and La Plata Peak, and a host of smaller peaks such as Mt. Hope and Twin Peaks. Within driving distance are three wilderness areas; Buffalo Peaks, Collegiate Peaks, and Mt. Massive Wildernesses are located close to the Twin Lakes Recreation area.

Twin Lakes sees a great deal of visitor traffic, especially during the summer months. Reservations for the Lakeview and White Star campgrounds fill up early in the season.

ALERT: The Twin Lakes boat ramp will not open May 17th as planned, and will remain closed until the water level rises. The water level has continued to drop and is well below the minimum operating level for the boat ramp. As spring runoff picks up the water level will rise, but the timing is unpredictable.

 

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