Leadville, Colorado, Snowmobile Trails

Ride through the snowmobile trails of Leadville, Colorado--a city situated at 10,152 feet above sea level, making it the highest incorporated city in the nation. Ride high in snow tracks that meander through forested areas and meadows while being surrounded by majestic mountain views. The city is part of Lake County, where many groomed trails are shared by snow sports enthusiasts, including snowmobile riders, snowshoe hikers and cross-country skiers.

  1. Wurts Ditch

    • The Wurts Ditch Trail has a difficulty level of beginner to intermediate. The trail starts from West Tennessee and ends in Camp Hale; beginners can stop at Yoder Gulch, while more experienced snowmobile riders can continue to tackle the steep climb and downhill run all the way to Camp Hale. The beginner ride from West Tennessee to Yoder Gulch is 11.5 miles and 23 miles if traveled in a loop. The Wurst Ditch Trail is also used by cross-country skiers and snowshoe hikers, so you should practice caution.

    Slide Lake

    • Tackle the 2.9-mile Slide Lake Loop Trail starting from its trailhead located on the Wurts Ditch Trail. To get to this intermediate-level trail, riders must pass a section of Lily Lake Trail and a section of Wurts Ditch. The trail has an elevation range of 10,648 to 11,585 feet and features views of snowy meadows, stream crossing and mountains surrounding Slide Lake. To get to the trail, follow Wurts Ditch Road and continue straight past the road junction near the cabin to Forest Road 145.

    East Tennessee

    • The East Tennessee snowmobile out-and-back trail spans 10 miles and is rated as beginner level. The elevation ranges from about 10,000 feet to almost 11,000 feet with the highest peak at the middle of the trail located at the ski area boundary where riders must turn around, as this area requires permits. Get to the trailhead by taking Highway 24 north out of Leadville for about 3.5 miles. Make a right at East Tennessee Road where a plowed parking lot is available.

    Tours

    • If you're new to the area, signing up for a guided snowmobile tour is an ideal way to explore new trails in Leadville. Various establishments give tours, including Good Times Adventures, High Country Tours and Sunlight Mountain Resort Snowmobile Tours. High Country Tours provide trips through the snowy trails of Colorado High Country, featuring lush forests and views of the Colorado Rockies. Tour durations range from one to three hours and include all necessary gear and equipment.