Leadville needs visitors.

While a nearby wildfire has dominated recent headlines, Leadville is open, welcoming guests, and its local businesses need your support. Like many mountain towns, restaurants, shops, hotels, museums, and outfitters rely on a short summer tourism season. When visitors stay away because they assume the entire area is closed, it’s the local community that feels the impact.

If you’re looking for a great Colorado day trip, consider spending the morning on the Arkansas River before heading to Leadville for the afternoon.

Cool Off on Bear Creek

This year’s drought has brought lower water levels to the Arkansas River, but that doesn’t mean the fun has disappeared.

At Monumental Expeditions, we’re rafting Bear Creek, a beautiful Class II stretch of river that’s perfect for families, first-time rafters, and anyone looking to escape the summer heat. The river is still cold and refreshing, the mountain scenery is spectacular, and the lower flows create a relaxing trip with plenty of splashes along the way.

After a morning on the water, you’ll be ready to dry off and continue your adventure.

Spend the Rest of the Day in Leadville

Just a short drive from the Arkansas River Valley, Leadville offers one of Colorado’s richest mountain experiences.

Walk historic Harrison Avenue and browse locally owned shops. Enjoy lunch at one of the town’s restaurants. Visit a museum and learn about Leadville’s colorful mining history. Stop for coffee, ice cream, or a locally brewed beer. Take in the cool mountain air at over 10,000 feet above sea level and enjoy the views that surround Colorado’s highest incorporated city.

Most importantly, your visit helps the people who call Leadville home.

Communities affected by nearby wildfires often face a second challenge after the smoke clears: fewer visitors. Even when businesses are open and attractions are operating, many travelers change their plans because they assume there’s nothing to do or that the town is closed.

That’s simply not true.

Leadville’s businesses are open, its streets are welcoming visitors, and every meal, purchase, and hotel stay helps support the local economy.

Explore With Purpose

A Colorado vacation isn’t just about checking places off a list. It’s about connecting with mountain communities and helping them thrive.

Spend the morning cooling off on the Arkansas River with a fun Bear Creek rafting trip, then head to Leadville and experience everything this historic town has to offer.

You’ll enjoy an unforgettable day in the Rockies while supporting a community that truly appreciates every visitor.