Easy Colorado Hike for Beginners


The Mayflower Gulch hike is a favorite for beginners because the terrain is not that challenging and the scenery is lovely. The length of the hike is about 2 miles and it offers a great view of the Mayflower Creek. The hike leads to the site of the Old Boston Mine and you will also see some great vistas in the Tenmile range once you have reached the pinnacle of the hike. The hiking trail is popular during ski season for cross-country skiers, but the hike is just as inviting during the summer months. There are a number of great stopping location that are all perfect for picnics and relaxing.

The area surrounding the Old Boston Mine is a ghost town and some of the buildings and landscape that still exist make for interesting photo opportunities. The old mine tower is visible about 2/3 of the way up the peak. While it may not be the most popular hike in Colorado because of the ease with which hikers can travel, it is one of the most beautiful. Even if you are an avid hiker in search of one challenge after another, take a break for a few hours and try out this hike. The visual rewards will be well worth your time.

Following your hike, there are a number of things you can do in the surrounding town of Leadville. Assuming you have worked up an appetite from your hike, try one of the Leadville's delicious restaurants. Quincy's features some of the best prime rib in the area, which is saying a lot for this part of the country. Prices are reasonable and it is a great place to stop and relax. The Golden Burro Cafy and Lounge is a bit unusual, but the offer delicous breakfasts for an affordable price. Tennessee Pass Cafy offers a variety of cheap, good eats on the quick. Finally, the Tennessee Pass Cookhouses serves quality American fare and the ambiance is a bit romantic. Reservations are recommended. Other restaurants are available for dining in the area and feature Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisine.

There is plenty to do in Leadville besides hiking, so if you are headed this way, plan to enjoy a variety of winter sports. The town is centrally located near several of Colorado's best ski resorts and you can enjoy downhill, ski boarding, cross-country, or tubing. The National Mining Hall of Fame is a popular destination in the part of the country and it is worth a visit if you have an interest in learning about America's gold mining history. You can hop a ride on the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad for an old-fashioned train ride through the Rocky Mountain countryside or head to the Leadville National Fish Hatchery to learn about the fish raised and stocked in this area.

While this may not be the most exciting vacation destination in the country, Leadville offers educational recreation and great hiking. The next time you are in the area, be sure to try out the Mayflower Gulch hike. It is a great way to relax, get some exercise, and enjoy the views.

Review, comment, or add new information about this topic:

Discuss Leadville, Colorado (CO) on our hugely popular Colorado forum.


City-data.com does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of any information on this site.  Use at your own risk.
Some parts © 2024 Advameg, Inc.