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
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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
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Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and adventure of the Southern Rocky Mountains, a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Pipeline Leadville
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Immerse yourself in the rich history of Pipeline Leadville, a stunning historical landmark surrounded by the majestic beauty of Colorado's mountains.
Turquoise Lake
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Turquoise Lake, a stunning natural attraction in Leadville, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Sugar Loaf Dam
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Explore Sugar Loaf Dam: A stunning historical landmark offering breathtaking views of Turquoise Lake in Leadville, Colorado.
Rodeway Inn
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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
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Old Tale Inn
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Leadville ATV Tours
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Leadville Motor Lodge (Previous known as Mountain Peaks Motel)
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Tiny House Leadville
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Two Mile Brewing Co
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The Mountain Goat
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Pastime Saloon
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Elbert
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Independence Pass
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AVA Rafting & Zipline
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Mount Massive Wilderness Area
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Independence Ghost Town
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Buffalo Peaks Wilderness
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Dutch Henry Tubing Hill
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Hagerman Tunnel
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Temple Israel Museum
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House With the Eye Museum
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Tabor Opera House
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Tabor Home Museum
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National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
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The Leadville Heritage Museum
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Healy House Museum & Dexter Cabin
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Essential places to dine
Shell
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Mt. Massive Golf Course
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Wild Bill's Restaurant
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Subway
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Wicked Good Pizza: Leadville, CO
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Isabella’s Kitchen
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Sabor oaxaqueño
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Taco Bell
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MTN Nutrition
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El Mexicano Food Truck
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La Mina Tacos & Mariscos
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Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
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Ridgeview Cafe
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Jour De Fête
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Living Room - W Aspen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tenderfoot Farm
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Green Door Collectibles
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Big R Stores - Leadville
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Grateful Paws
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McFee Silversmiths
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Roots Rx Leadville Dispensary
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Earl's
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Circle K
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Leadville Outdoors and Mountain Market
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Cycles of Life
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Leadville Race Series Store
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Elevation Goods
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Iris Moon Emporium
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Blue Vessel Flower Shop
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La Victoria Mexican Store & Snacks
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Manhattan Bar
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Escobar Aspen
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Caribou Club
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Shadow Mountain Lounge
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
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J-Bar
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The Sterling Aspen
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Hefner Lounge
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
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Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
