Willis Gulch Trailhead: Gateway to Alpine Beauty
Explore Colorado's stunning alpine scenery from Willis Gulch Trailhead near Twin Lakes. Hiking, wildflowers, and mountain vistas await!
Willis Gulch Trailhead, near Twin Lakes, Colorado, provides access to stunning hiking trails within the San Isabel National Forest. Offering routes for various skill levels, it's a popular destination for experiencing Colorado's mountain scenery, from forests and meadows to alpine lakes and panoramic vistas.
A brief summary to Willis Gulch Trailhead
- 7498-7418, CO-82, Twin Lakes, CO, 81251, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays, as the trailhead can get crowded.
- Bring layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for varying conditions.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks to stay energized during your hike, especially for longer treks to Willis Lake or Hope Pass.
- Consider using trekking poles for added stability on steep or rocky sections of the trails.
- Check the USDA Forest Service website for any trail closures or updated conditions before your visit.
Getting There
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Driving
From Twin Lakes village, head west on CO-82 for approximately 2 miles. Look for a signed parking lot on the left (south) side of the road. The trailhead is accessed by crossing the bridge over Lake Creek. Parking is free but can be limited during peak season. Be aware that CO-82 over Independence Pass is typically closed from November to late May due to winter conditions, restricting access from the west during those months.
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Public Transport
While there aren't direct public transport options to the Willis Gulch Trailhead, you can take the Bustang from Denver to Frisco, then the Summit Stage bus (Lake County Link) to Leadville. From Leadville, you would need to rely on a taxi or shuttle service to reach the trailhead, which is about 16 miles southwest of Leadville. Contacting a local shuttle service in Leadville is recommended for cost and availability.
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
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Tiny House Leadville
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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
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The Mountain Goat
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Pastime Saloon
22.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Elbert
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Independence Pass
14.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Independence Pass, a stunning mountain pass in Colorado that captivates every traveler.
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
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Explore the breathtaking Mount Massive Wilderness Area in Colorado, a wildlife refuge offering stunning landscapes, unique experiences, and abundant outdoor activities.
Independence Ghost Town
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Discover the haunting remnants of Independence Ghost Town, a captivating glimpse into Colorado's mining history surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Buffalo Peaks Wilderness
21.2 km
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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 rich Jewish heritage at the Temple Israel Museum in Leadville, Colorado, showcasing the history and culture of its vibrant community.
House With the Eye Museum
22.4 km
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Tabor Opera House
22.5 km
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Tabor Home Museum
22.7 km
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National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
22.8 km
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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
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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
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Sabor oaxaqueño
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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
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Tennessee Pass Cookhouse
32.6 km
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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
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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
21.6 km
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Big R Stores - Leadville
21.7 km
Explore unique fashion and outdoor gear at Big R Stores in Leadville, your one-stop shop for stylish clothing in the heart of Colorado.
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
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Roots Rx Leadville Dispensary
22.0 km
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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
Scarlet Tavern
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The Manhattan Bar
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39 Degrees Lounge
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Ponyboy Aspen
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The Wine Bar
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Silver City Aspen
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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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Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
38.6 km
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The Sterling Aspen
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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.
