Tennessee Pass: A Historic Crossroads
Explore a scenic Colorado mountain pass with a rich history in mining, railroading, and World War II training, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
Tennessee Pass, a 10,424-foot mountain pass in the Colorado Rockies, offers scenic beauty and historical significance. It's known for its role in mining, rail transport, and as a training ground for the 10th Mountain Division during World War II.
A brief summary to Tennessee Pass
- 1527 US-24, Leadville, Colorado, 80461, US
Local tips
- Visit the 10th Mountain Division Memorial to learn about the area's WWII history.
- Hike a portion of the Continental Divide Trail for spectacular views.
- Check road conditions before traveling, especially during winter.
- Consider visiting Ski Cooper for family-friendly skiing.
- Explore nearby Camp Hale, where the 10th Mountain Division trained.
Getting There
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Driving
Tennessee Pass is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 24. From Leadville, travel north on US-24 for approximately 9 miles. From Vail/Minturn, take exit 171 from I-70 and continue on Highway 24-E for about 29 miles. Parking is available at the summit near the 10th Mountain Division Memorial and Ski Cooper. Be aware that road closures may occur during severe winter weather. There are no fees for accessing the pass itself.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the summit of Tennessee Pass, you can take a Bustang bus to Leadville. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to cover the remaining 9 miles to the pass. A taxi or rideshare from Leadville to Tennessee Pass would likely cost between $25 and $40. Be sure to arrange your return trip in advance, as services may be limited.
Discover more about Tennessee Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Camp Hale National Monument
8.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Camp Hale National Monument, a tribute to the 10th Mountain Division’s legacy amidst the stunning Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Silver King Inn & Suites
11.4 km
Experience the cozy charm of Silver King Inn & Suites in Leadville, Colorado, your perfect base for mountain adventures and scenic getaways.
Arkansas River Headwaters
11.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Arkansas River Headwaters in Leadville, Colorado, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Rockies.
S.L.umber Yard
12.2 km
Discover the charm and comfort of S.L.umber Yard in Leadville, Colorado, your perfect base for Rocky Mountain adventures and relaxation.
Mineral Belt trail
12.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Mineral Belt Trail in Leadville, Colorado, where scenic views and rich mining history come together for a perfect outdoor adventure.
Leadville Historic Lofts
12.2 km
Discover the unique blend of history and modern comfort at Leadville Historic Lofts, your perfect retreat in the heart of Colorado's stunning Rocky Mountains.
FREIGHT
12.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of history and modern luxury at FREIGHT, your ideal hotel in Leadville, Colorado for adventures and special events.
Evergreen Cemetery
12.4 km
Explore Evergreen Cemetery in Leadville, CO, a serene historical site offering stunning views and rich stories of the past.
Leadville Visitors Center
12.5 km
Explore the heart of Colorado at the Leadville Visitors Center, your essential resource for adventure and history in the Rocky Mountains.
Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn
12.5 km
Discover the charm of Leadville, CO, at Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn, your cozy base for mountain adventures and cultural exploration.
Leadville Railroad
12.5 km
Discover the breathtaking scenery of Colorado aboard the historic Leadville Railroad, a unique travel experience through the Rockies.
Melanzana Outdoor Clothing
12.5 km
Discover high-quality outdoor clothing at Melanzana in Leadville, Colorado, your go-to shop for adventure gear crafted with sustainability in mind.
Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge
12.6 km
Experience the heart of Leadville at Golden Burro Cafe & Lounge, where comfort food meets a vibrant atmosphere in the Colorado Rockies.
Governor's Mansion Vacation Rentals
12.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of history and comfort at Governor's Mansion Vacation Rentals in Leadville, Colorado, your gateway to outdoor adventure.
The Abbey
12.6 km
Discover The Abbey, your cozy inn in Leadville, Colorado, blending rustic charm with modern amenities for an unforgettable stay.
Unmissable attractions to see
Camp Hale Memorial Campground
6.5 km
Discover history and nature at Camp Hale Memorial Campground, where the 10th Mountain Division trained during WWII. Hike, fish, and explore the Rockies.
Matchless Mine
12.3 km
Explore a legendary silver mine and the poignant story of Baby Doe Tabor in Leadville, Colorado's historic mining district.
Ice Palace Park
12.3 km
Visit Ice Palace Park in Leadville, CO: a peaceful park commemorating the site of the historic, short-lived Leadville Ice Palace from 1896.
Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin
12.4 km
Explore Victorian life in a booming silver town at Leadville's Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin. History, gardens, and stunning mountain views await.
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
12.4 km
Explore the captivating world of mining history at Leadville's National Mining Hall of Fame, the 'Smithsonian of the Rockies'.
The Leadville Heritage Museum
12.4 km
Discover Leadville's vibrant past at the Heritage Museum: Mining history, Ice Palace replica, and 10th Mountain Division exhibits await!
Tabor Home Museum
12.8 km
Explore the preserved home of Silver King Horace Tabor in Leadville, Colorado, and discover the captivating stories of wealth, love, and loss.
House With the Eye Museum
12.9 km
Explore Leadville's history through the all-seeing eye. A unique museum experience filled with artifacts and stories from the past.
Tabor Opera House
12.9 km
Experience the grandeur of the Wild West at Leadville's Tabor Opera House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting tours and performances.
Temple Israel Museum
13.0 km
Explore the Jewish heritage of the Wild West in a beautifully restored 1884 frontier synagogue and museum in historic Leadville, Colorado.
Dutch Henry Tubing Hill
13.7 km
Experience winter thrills at Dutch Henry Tubing Hill in Leadville, CO – free sledding, tube rentals, and stunning mountain views!
Mosquito Pass
14.0 km
Experience a thrilling off-road journey through history on Mosquito Pass, one of Colorado's highest and most scenic mountain passes. Open seasonally to 4x4 vehicles.
Mayflower Gulch Trail
14.7 km
Explore Colorado's mining history amidst stunning alpine scenery on the Mayflower Gulch Trail near Frisco.
Drift Peak
15.7 km
Conquer Drift Peak: A challenging hike near Breckenridge with rewarding panoramic views and a sense of high-altitude solitude.
Mt Lincoln
17.2 km
Conquer Colorado's majestic Mount Lincoln, the eighth-highest fourteener, for breathtaking views and a rewarding alpine adventure.
Essential places to dine
Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
2.1 km
Experience exquisite mountain dining at Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, where local flavors meet stunning alpine views.
Ridgeview Cafe
2.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Ridgeview Cafe in Leadville, Colorado - where delicious home-cooked meals meet breathtaking mountain views.
La Mina Tacos & Mariscos
11.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at La Mina Tacos & Mariscos in Leadville - where every bite transports you to Mexico.
El Mexicano Food Truck
11.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Mexicano Food Truck in Leadville—where every taco tells a story.
Taco Bell
11.6 km
Experience delicious Mexican-inspired fast food at Taco Bell in Leadville – where quick bites meet vibrant flavors amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
MTN Nutrition
11.6 km
Experience wholesome dining at MTN Nutrition in Leadville, CO - where health meets flavor amidst stunning mountain views.
Sabor oaxaqueño
11.6 km
Discover authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Sabor Oaxaqueño in Leadville—where fast food meets rich cultural flavors.
Isabella’s Kitchen
11.6 km
Discover Isabella's Kitchen in Leadville: where comfort food meets local charm amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Wicked Good Pizza: Leadville, CO
11.7 km
Experience the best pizza in Leadville at Wicked Good Pizza - where quality ingredients meet mountain charm.
Subway
12.4 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Leadville – your go-to spot for delicious sandwiches and quick meals amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Wild Bill's Restaurant
13.1 km
Discover delicious hamburgers and American fast food at Wild Bill's Restaurant in scenic Leadville - where great taste meets local charm.
Mt. Massive Golf Course
13.5 km
Discover unparalleled golfing at Mt. Massive Golf Course in Leadville, Colorado - where breathtaking mountain views meet recreational fun.
Shell
15.7 km
Experience convenience at Shell in Leadville: fuel up while enjoying friendly service and local snacks amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
Vista Haus
23.0 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Vista Haus in Breckenridge - where breathtaking views meet delicious cuisine.
The Overlook Restaurant
23.1 km
Experience breathtaking mountain views and exquisite Asian cuisine at The Overlook Restaurant in beautiful Breckenridge.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Envios La Pasadita Leadville
12.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Envios La Pasadita, Leadville's premier Mexican grocery store for authentic ingredients and snacks.
Family Dollar
12.2 km
Explore a wide range of affordable products at Family Dollar in Leadville, Colorado, the perfect stop for budget-conscious tourists.
Floyd's of Leadville
12.2 km
Discover quality cannabis products in Leadville, CO at Floyd's of Leadville, where expertise meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Mt. Massive Liquors
12.3 km
Explore a unique selection of local and international spirits at Mt. Massive Liquors in Leadville, Colorado, and elevate your travel experience.
Leadville Lifestyle
12.3 km
Discover the unique artisan offerings and rich heritage of Leadville at Leadville Lifestyle, your gateway to local treasures in Colorado.
Precision Peaks
12.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local craftsmanship at Precision Peaks, the charming gift shop in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Fire On the Mountain
12.6 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Fire On the Mountain, a must-visit pottery store and art center in Leadville, Colorado, showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Delaware Mercantile
12.6 km
Explore Delaware Mercantile in Leadville, CO: a unique gift shop showcasing local craftsmanship and treasures from the heart of the Rockies.
Zero Day Coffee
12.6 km
Experience the warmth of community and expertly crafted coffee at Zero Day Coffee in Leadville, Colorado - a perfect pitstop for adventurers.
Firehouse General Store
12.6 km
Explore Firehouse General Store in Leadville, Colorado, for unique gifts and local treasures that celebrate the spirit of the Rockies.
Alpine Gift Shoppe
12.6 km
Explore Alpine Gift Shoppe for exquisite antiques, unique gifts, and handcrafted furniture in the heart of Leadville, Colorado.
Blueflower Candies & Provisions
12.6 km
Discover the sweet side of Leadville at Blueflower Candies & Provisions, where handcrafted treats meet local charm.
Leadville Exchange
12.6 km
Explore Leadville Exchange, a charming consignment shop in Leadville, Colorado, filled with unique vintage treasures and quality pre-loved items.
Matchless Treasures Thrift Shop
12.6 km
Explore the charm of Leadville with unique finds at Matchless Treasures Thrift Shop - a sustainable shopping experience awaits!
Aspen Traders
12.7 km
Discover Aspen Traders in Leadville, a boutique treasure trove featuring exquisite jewelry and local artisan crafts, perfect for every discerning shopper.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Manhattan Bar
12.6 km
Experience the charm of Leadville at The Manhattan Bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks await.
Scarlet Tavern
12.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Scarlet Tavern in Leadville, Colorado, where craft cocktails and friendly faces await after your mountain adventures.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
25.6 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.
Base Nine
25.6 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Molly Jacks
26.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
The Absinthe Bar
26.2 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Fireside Lounge
26.2 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
26.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
26.2 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
26.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
26.4 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Prospector
26.4 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
RMU Breckenridge
26.4 km
Discover RMU Breckenridge - The ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts with live music, bike repairs, and a vibrant bar scene in the heart of Colorado!
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
26.5 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Traverse Restaurant & Bar
27.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning mountain views at Traverse Restaurant & Bar in Breckenridge, Colorado.
