New England may be renowned for their beautiful fall foliage, but Colorado boasts some rather incredible scenery during the autumn months. In fact, I think our fall color palette rivals many of the other areas of the country.
On Friday, September 20, we’re driving to Leadville for a short stay in this unique Colorado town. The last time we visited was a number of years ago. It was early October and we woke up to six inches of snow. At more than 10,000 feet above sea level, Leadville is the highest incorporated town in the United States, and winter often comes early here.
Having visited several times, I’ve always considered Leadville the quintessential Colorado mountain town. There’s no skiing and tourism has not significantly changed this place. It’s still a work-a-day town with real folks trying to eek out a living in a place where winters are long and summers are short.
Please note: While Leadville isn’t a “ski town” per se, they do have skiing available nearby at Ski Cooper. Plus, there’s wonderful cross-country skiing trails in the area.
Lots of places claim that “history comes alive here,” but in Leadville, that overused phrase is actually true. Walk into the Silver Dollar Saloon, and you’re actually stepping into history itself, although today you don’t need to make sure your sidearm is buckled on your hip.
We have several things planned for this trip, but the overall reason for our visit is the Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad‘s special fall photo train excursion. These train rides, running September 14, 15, 21 and 22, and departing at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., are a wonderful opportunity to photograph the changing seasonal colors of the Arkansas Valley.
The ride is three hours (1/2 hour longer than usual) and costs the normal rate of $35 for adults and $20 for children (ages 4-12) .
Leadville and the surrounding area is rich in pertinent history, and the railroad is no exception. This section of railway was once part of the former Colorado & Southern Railway line from Leadville to Climax.
I will have lots more to write about Leadville and this train ride once I return, but in the meantime, if you’d like to hop on the Fall Photo Train go to Leadville-Train.com and book your seat today.
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