Boat Tours & History on Twin Lakes with Twin Lakes Interlaken - Leadville

Boat Tours & History on Twin Lakes with Twin Lakes Interlaken

Leadvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for guests of all fitness levels; includes gentle boat ride and easy walking on mostly flat terrain.

Overview

Twin Lakes Interlaken Boat Tours offer a hands-on history lesson afloat, coupled with stunning mountain lake views. Discover the stories behind the water and woods on this memorable Colorado trip.

Details

Set against the rugged backdrop of Colorado’s high country, Twin Lakes sits a short drive south of Leadville, offering a unique window into the past framed by shimmering waters and towering peaks. Twin Lakes Interlaken Boat Tours delivers more than just a ride—they provide a fully rounded experience that intertwines natural beauty with the rich heritage of the area.

Launching from the Red Rooster Boat Ramp, these tours wind across the lake's placid surface, taking in the aspens lighting up the shoreline and the dramatic shadows cast by the Sawatch Range. The boat guides, including Captain Brian and Calee, bring local lore to life, recounting tales that range from the lake’s mining boom roots to ghost stories that have earned this boat the affectionate nickname “the ghost boat.”

After the water portion, guests disembark to stroll the grounds of the historic Interlaken Resort. Here, well-placed educational signage invites visitors to immerse themselves in the story of a bygone era, between century-old buildings and uneven woodland paths. The unpaved trails encourage old shoes rather than pristine hiking boots, a reminder that history here is weathered and authentic.

Families find this trip especially rewarding, with activities like stand-up paddleboarding adding a playful note and occasional moments of live music from guides that personalize the outing. It’s a refreshing break from the more strenuous hikes that dominate the region.

Twin Lakes Interlaken Boat Tours stands out by balancing serene outdoor adventure with thoughtful storytelling. This makes it a distinctive and memorable highlight in the landscape of Colorado ski town escapes and mountain getaways. Whether you’re passing through on a day trip or making this your outdoor base camp, this is a destination where history, water, and mountain scenery come together effortlessly.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early to Secure Parking

Red Rooster Boat Ramp parking can fill quickly, so arrive about an hour early, especially for popular morning tours.

Wear Sturdy Shoes for the Walk

The post-tour walk around Interlaken Resort is on unpaved ground, so shoes that can handle dirt and uneven terrain are a must.

Bring Layers for Variable Mountain Weather

Temperatures on the lake can shift quickly; a lightweight jacket will keep you comfortable during the boat ride and stroll.

Consider a Camera or Smartphone for Scenic Shots

Twin Lakes’ reflective waters and mountain views create picture-perfect moments, especially near the Aspens in fall.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The historic Interlaken Resort area with interpretive signage
  • Stand-up paddleboarding spots on quieter parts of Twin Lakes

Wildlife

  • Merriam’s turkey
  • Yellow-bellied marmot

History

Twin Lakes was once a hub for silver mining in the late 19th century, and the Interlaken Resort area still preserves buildings from that era.

Conservation

Efforts are in place to protect lake water quality and surrounding forest areas, supporting long-term ecological health and sustainable tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Mid-afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • From the boat center on the lake looking toward the Sawatch Range
  • Along the shoreline near the historic Interlaken buildings
  • Near the Aspen groves bordering the east lake shore

What to Photograph

Mountain reflections on the water
Historic wooden structures
Autumn Aspens

Recommended Gear

Water-resistant hiking shoes

Essential

Protects feet on unpaved, sometimes damp walking trails around the Interlaken Resort.

spring|fall|summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows quick adjustment to changing mountain weather on the lake and during shoreline walks.

all specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Prevents sunburn during sunny boat tours at high elevation.

summer|spring|fall specific

Camera or smartphone

Capture the dramatic mountain vistas, golden aspens, and historic architecture.

all specific

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