Quick Info
Options: Historic hotels, motels, B&Bs, vacation rentals. Elevation: 10,152 feet—altitude affects sleep. Booking: Reserve ahead for race weekends and summer. Alternative: Buena Vista (30 min) has more options.
Leadville's lodging reflects its character—authentic, unpretentious, and affordable compared to resort towns. No luxury resorts here, but several historic properties offer genuine Victorian atmosphere. Budget motels serve hikers and racers. Vacation rentals fill the gaps.
The town's altitude matters for sleep. At 10,152 feet, many visitors experience restless nights, especially at first. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol before bed, and give yourself time to adjust.
Historic Hotels
Delaware Hotel
Leadville's grandest Victorian hotel, built in 1886 at the height of the silver boom. Restored rooms with period furnishings. The lobby and public spaces transport you to another era. Prime Harrison Avenue location.
The Tabor Grand Hotel
Named for silver king Horace Tabor. Historic property with updated amenities. Walking distance to downtown attractions. Good balance of character and comfort.
Motels & Budget Options
Alps Motel
Classic roadside motel on the north end of town. Clean rooms, reasonable rates, no frills. Popular with Leadville 100 racers and support crews.
Timberline Motel
Another straightforward option. Basic but adequate for hikers and budget travelers. Pet-friendly rooms available.
Super 8 by Wyndham
The closest thing to a chain hotel in Leadville. Predictable quality, continental breakfast, familiar amenities.
B&Bs & Inns
Ice Palace Inn
Named for Leadville's legendary 1896 ice palace. Victorian B&B with full breakfast. Personal service and local knowledge from hosts.
Leadville Hostel
Budget-friendly option with dorm beds and private rooms. Kitchen access. Popular with hikers, bikers, and adventurers.
Vacation Rentals
Airbnb and VRBO listings expand Leadville's options significantly. Historic houses, mountain cabins, and apartments throughout town. Rentals work well for groups and longer stays.
Advantages: More space, kitchens for cooking (important given limited restaurants), often better value for families.
Considerations: Some properties are at even higher elevations outside town. Confirm exact location and access before booking.
Staying Nearby
Buena Vista (30 minutes)
More lodging options at slightly lower elevation (7,965 feet). Better restaurant selection. Easy drive to Leadville for day activities. Good alternative if Leadville is full.
Twin Lakes (10 minutes)
Small community at the base of Independence Pass. Limited options but beautiful setting. Closer to Mount Elbert trailhead.
Copper Mountain/Frisco (30 minutes)
Resort-area lodging over Fremont Pass. More amenities but loses Leadville's authentic atmosphere.
Race Weekends
The Leadville 100 races (run in June, bike in August) transform the town. Lodging fills months in advance. Prices increase. If you're not racing or supporting a racer, avoid these weekends or book very early.
Leadville Trail 100 Run: Mid-August. The original and most famous.
Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Early August. Mountain biking's toughest test.
Leadville Trail Marathon: June. Fills nearby lodging too.
Tips
Altitude affects sleep. First-night insomnia is common at 10,000+ feet. Don't schedule demanding activities for day one.
Book ahead for summer. July and August bring peak tourism. Weekends fill quickly.
Historic hotels have quirks. Old buildings mean creaky floors, small bathrooms, and character. Embrace it.
Restaurants are limited. Consider lodging with kitchen access if you're staying multiple nights.
Winter heating matters. Leadville gets cold. Confirm heating works well before winter stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will altitude affect my sleep?
Probably. Many people sleep poorly their first night above 10,000 feet. It usually improves by night two or three. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
Are there any chain hotels?
Just the Super 8. Leadville's lodging is mostly independent properties with local character.
What's the best area to stay?
Downtown on or near Harrison Avenue puts you within walking distance of restaurants and attractions. Anywhere in town is convenient—it's small.
Should I stay in Leadville or Buena Vista?
Leadville for authentic mining town atmosphere and proximity to Mount Elbert/Ski Cooper. Buena Vista for more dining options, whitewater access, and slightly easier altitude adjustment.
Is camping available?
Several campgrounds near town—Twin Lakes, Turquoise Lake, and dispersed camping in national forest. Popular with hikers and budget travelers.