Willis Gulch Trailhead: Gateway to Scenic Hiking near Twin Lakes
Explore scenic hiking trails with stunning views from Willis Gulch Trailhead near Colorado's Twin Lakes.
Willis Gulch Trailhead, located near Twin Lakes, Colorado, provides access to stunning hiking trails with panoramic mountain views, waterfalls, and vibrant wildflower displays. It serves as a popular starting point for exploring the San Isabel National Forest and accessing Hope Pass and the Continental Divide Trail.
A brief summary to Willis Gulch Trailhead
- 7498-7418, CO-82, Twin Lakes, CO, 81251, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a parking spot as the trailhead can get busy.
- Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions, especially at higher elevations.
- Leash your dogs and be prepared to pack out all trash to help preserve the natural environment.
Getting There
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Driving
From Twin Lakes Village, drive west on CO-82 for approximately 2 miles. Look for the signed Willis Gulch Trailhead parking lot on the left (south) side of the highway. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly during peak season. There are no unavoidable tolls.
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Public Transport
During the summer, a free weekend shuttle operates between Leadville and the Twin Lakes Visitor Center. From the visitor center, it is approximately 2 miles to the trailhead via CO-82. Check the Lake County Transit website for the current schedule and real-time tracking. From the Twin Lakes Visitor Center, you could walk to the trailhead or use a ride-sharing service such as Uber. Uber prices vary.
Discover more about Willis Gulch Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Twin Lakes Historic District
2.7 km
Explore the enchanting Twin Lakes Historic District, where history and stunning natural beauty intertwine in the heart of Colorado.
Interlaken Historic Resort
4.9 km
Experience the elegance of the 19th century at Interlaken Historic Resort, a picturesque historical landmark surrounded by the natural beauty of Twin Lakes, Colorado.
Southern Rocky Mountains
7.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and adventure of the Southern Rocky Mountains, a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Pipeline Leadville
14.2 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Pipeline Leadville, a stunning historical landmark surrounded by the majestic beauty of Colorado's mountains.
Turquoise Lake
21.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Turquoise Lake, a stunning natural attraction in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Sugar Loaf Dam
21.2 km
Explore Sugar Loaf Dam: A stunning historical landmark offering breathtaking views of Turquoise Lake in Leadville, Colorado.
Rodeway Inn
21.2 km
Discover the charm of Leadville, Colorado, at Rodeway Inn, your budget-friendly hotel surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and rich mining history.
Mineral Belt Trail
21.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Mineral Belt Trail in Leadville, Colorado—a perfect blend of stunning scenery and rich mining history, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Old Tale Inn
22.1 km
Discover comfort and charm at Old Tale Inn in Leadville, Colorado, your perfect retreat for exploring the breathtaking Rockies and rich local history.
Leadville ATV Tours
22.2 km
Experience the thrill of the Colorado Rockies with unforgettable ATV tours in Leadville, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.
Leadville Motor Lodge (Previous known as Mountain Peaks Motel)
22.3 km
Discover the charm of Leadville Motor Lodge, your cozy base for adventure in the stunning Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Tiny House Leadville
22.3 km
Experience the charm of Tiny House Leadville, a unique motel nestled in the heart of Colorado's stunning Rocky Mountains, perfect for your next getaway!
Two Mile Brewing Co
22.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Two Mile Brewing Co, where craft beer meets breathtaking mountain views in Leadville, Colorado.
The Mountain Goat
22.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Leadville at The Mountain Goat, where fast food meets local charm in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Pastime Saloon
22.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Elbert
7.0 km
Conquer Colorado's highest peak! Hike Mount Elbert for breathtaking views and a rewarding high-altitude adventure in the Rocky Mountains.
Independence Pass
14.7 km
Experience breathtaking alpine scenery and historic sites on this seasonal scenic byway connecting Aspen and Twin Lakes, Colorado.
AVA Rafting & Zipline
15.1 km
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting, ziplining, and rock climbing in the heart of the Colorado Rockies with AVA Rafting & Zipline's Buena Vista outpost.
Mount Massive Wilderness Area
15.2 km
Explore Colorado's stunning alpine wilderness: Hike among towering peaks, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife in the majestic Mount Massive Wilderness.
Independence Ghost Town
17.9 km
Step back in time at Independence Ghost Town, a preserved mining settlement on Independence Pass, offering a glimpse into Colorado's past.
Buffalo Peaks Wilderness
21.2 km
Discover solitude and stunning scenery in the heart of Colorado's Buffalo Peaks Wilderness. Hike, camp, and explore!
Dutch Henry Tubing Hill
21.3 km
Experience winter thrills at Dutch Henry Tubing Hill in Leadville, CO – free sledding, tube rentals, and stunning mountain views!
Hagerman Tunnel
22.0 km
Explore a piece of Colorado's railroad history at the Hagerman Tunnel, once the world's highest railroad tunnel, near Leadville.
Temple Israel Museum
22.4 km
Explore the Jewish heritage of the Wild West in a beautifully restored 1884 frontier synagogue and museum in historic Leadville, Colorado.
House With the Eye Museum
22.4 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
22.5 km
Experience the grandeur of the Wild West at Leadville's Tabor Opera House, a beautifully preserved landmark hosting tours and performances.
Tabor Home Museum
22.7 km
Explore the preserved home of Silver King Horace Tabor in Leadville, Colorado, and discover the captivating stories of wealth, love, and loss.
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
22.8 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
22.9 km
Discover Leadville's vibrant past at the Heritage Museum: Mining history, Ice Palace replica, and 10th Mountain Division exhibits await!
Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin
22.9 km
Explore Victorian life in a booming silver town at Leadville's Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin. History, gardens, and stunning mountain views await.
Essential places to dine
Shell
18.4 km
Experience convenience at Shell in Leadville: fuel up while enjoying friendly service and local snacks amidst Colorado's stunning scenery.
Mt. Massive Golf Course
20.6 km
Discover unparalleled golfing at Mt. Massive Golf Course in Leadville, Colorado - where breathtaking mountain views meet recreational fun.
Wild Bill's Restaurant
22.4 km
Discover delicious hamburgers and American fast food at Wild Bill's Restaurant in scenic Leadville - where great taste meets local charm.
Subway
23.0 km
Experience fresh flavors at Subway in Leadville – your go-to spot for delicious sandwiches and quick meals amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Wicked Good Pizza: Leadville, CO
23.6 km
Experience the best pizza in Leadville at Wicked Good Pizza - where quality ingredients meet mountain charm.
Isabella’s Kitchen
23.6 km
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Sabor oaxaqueño
23.6 km
Discover authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Sabor Oaxaqueño in Leadville—where fast food meets rich cultural flavors.
Taco Bell
23.6 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
23.6 km
Experience wholesome dining at MTN Nutrition in Leadville, CO - where health meets flavor amidst stunning mountain views.
El Mexicano Food Truck
23.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Mexicano Food Truck in Leadville—where every taco tells a story.
La Mina Tacos & Mariscos
23.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at La Mina Tacos & Mariscos in Leadville - where every bite transports you to Mexico.
Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
32.6 km
Experience exquisite mountain dining at Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, where local flavors meet stunning alpine views.
Ridgeview Cafe
33.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Ridgeview Cafe in Leadville, Colorado - where delicious home-cooked meals meet breathtaking mountain views.
Jour De Fête
38.1 km
Discover authentic French cuisine in Aspen at Jour De Fête - a delightful bistro serving breakfast, lunch, and freshly baked pastries.
Living Room - W Aspen
38.2 km
Experience upscale dining at Living Room - W Aspen, where gourmet cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views in an elegant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tenderfoot Farm
21.6 km
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Green Door Collectibles
21.6 km
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Big R Stores - Leadville
21.7 km
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Grateful Paws
21.9 km
Discover Grateful Paws in Leadville, Colorado – your go-to destination for premium pet supplies, grooming, and a community of pet lovers.
McFee Silversmiths
21.9 km
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Roots Rx Leadville Dispensary
22.0 km
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Earl's
22.3 km
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Circle K
22.3 km
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Leadville Outdoors and Mountain Market
22.4 km
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Cycles of Life
22.5 km
Experience the best of cycling with quality bikes and expert advice at Cycles of Life in Leadville, Colorado, your gateway to scenic adventures.
Leadville Race Series Store
22.5 km
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Elevation Goods
22.5 km
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Iris Moon Emporium
22.6 km
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Blue Vessel Flower Shop
22.6 km
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La Victoria Mexican Store & Snacks
22.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scarlet Tavern
22.5 km
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The Manhattan Bar
22.7 km
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39 Degrees Lounge
38.2 km
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Ponyboy Aspen
38.2 km
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The Wine Bar
38.3 km
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Silver City Aspen
38.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Silver City Aspen, a lively bar with live music and sports for unforgettable evenings.
Escobar Aspen
38.4 km
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Caribou Club
38.5 km
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Shadow Mountain Lounge
38.5 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
38.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
J-Bar
38.6 km
Discover J-Bar, Aspen's premier bar offering a stylish ambiance, delicious cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
38.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Sterling Aspen
38.6 km
Discover nightlife at The Sterling Aspen, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant events create unforgettable evenings in the heart of Colorado.
Hefner Lounge
40.0 km
Indulge in a sophisticated atmosphere at Hefner Lounge, Aspen's premier destination for cocktails and socializing amidst stunning mountain views.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
41.5 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Horse Farm
13.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Leadville's Horse Farm, where equestrian adventure meets stunning mountain landscapes in Colorado.
Leadville Rod & Gun Club
21.2 km
Discover the thrill of shooting sports amidst the stunning landscapes of Leadville, Colorado. Perfect for enthusiasts and novices alike.
ASPENX Mountain Club
38.3 km
Discover the elite nightlife at ASPENX Mountain Club, where luxury meets excitement in the heart of Aspen's vibrant social scene.
GALA Aspen
38.5 km
Discover GALA Aspen, the ultimate lounge experience blending sophistication, great drinks, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Colorado's ski haven.
Matchstick Productions Lounge
52.1 km
Discover the cozy elegance of Matchstick Productions Lounge in Crested Butte, where mountain charm meets modern delight for an unforgettable experience.
Ollie's Pub & Grub Breck
55.4 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Ollie's Pub & Grub in Breckenridge, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Absinthe Bar
55.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and unique absinthe offerings at The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
Prospector
55.6 km
Discover the lively Prospector Cocktail Bar in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
RMU Breckenridge
55.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of RMU Breckenridge, where outdoor adventure meets relaxation in a lively bar setting.
Motherloaded Tavern
55.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort food and crafted cocktails at Motherloaded Tavern in Breckenridge, Colorado, a must-visit for travelers.
The Gold Pan Saloon
55.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of The Gold Pan Saloon – Breckenridge's iconic bar and restaurant for food, drinks, and live music.
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
55.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where authentic Irish cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Tavern Underground
55.9 km
Discover Tavern Underground, a cozy bar in Breckenridge serving craft cocktails and delicious small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
58.0 km
Discover Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant, where American cuisine meets artisanal spirits in a cozy setting perfect for any occasion.
Shakedown Bar
64.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Shakedown Bar in Vail, where live music, great drinks, and dancing create unforgettable experiences.
