Twin Lakes , Colorado

"At the Foot of Colorado's Highest Fourteener. "

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Twin Lakes, Colorado

The aptly named town of Twin Lakes, Colorado lies adjacent two natural lakes at the foot of Colorado's highest Fourteener, Mt. Elbert. Twin Lakes was once a transportation hub for the mining centers of Leadville, Colorado and Aspen. Today, it is simply one of the most beautiful spots in the world for mountain recreation and relaxation. Twin Lakes is an obvious destination spot for fishermen. But it is also an ideal jumping off spot for hiking and climbing. Photographers will find countless scenes on which to focus their lenses.

Twin Lakes is a beautiful gem nestled amoung 14,000 foot peaks. Only a two and a half hour drive from the front range, this historic small village offers a great base for exploring out-of-doors, scenery and shopping from Leadville to Aspen (after Memorial Day when the beautiful Independence Pass between Twin Lakes & Aspen opens for the season.) There are delightful accommodations in and around Twin Lakes where a visitor can center their weekend get-away.

Surrounding the lakes are two historical areas, Twin Lake Village and Interlaken. Twin Lakes Village is located two miles west of the lakes. Prospectors first settled in this area in 1865, naming it Dayton. Then in 1879, a combination of events brought new life to the area. Silver had been discovered in Leadville and Aspen, and the need for a route between the two districts became urgent. Lake Creek Valley (Twin Lakes Village) was the most logical route. At the same time, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad completed its rails into Leadville, with stops at Granite and the Twin Lakes Station, allowing visitors to discover the beauty of the Lake Creek Valley.

By 1885 tourism was thriving. Interlaken, a famous resort on the southern shore of the lower lake, was in full operation, catering to the rich and famous. James V. Dexter, a Denver-Leadville mining magnate, who had purchased the original hotel on the lakeshore, along with 2,000 acres of prime real estate, owned it. The area became a favorite boating, fishing and hunting area. People came from all over to experience the beauty and splendor of the Lake Creek Valley. Today, hikers and history buffs can visit the historic Interlaken by following the Colorado Trail along the south side of the lake, beginning at the dam.

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