Driving to Leadville
Getting to Leadville from I-70 from either Hwy. 24 or 91 is a spectacular drive. Both roads are part of the Top of the Rockies National Scenic & Historic Byway so designated because of its extraordinary scenic beauty and importance in history. As you enter Leadville, Hwy. 24 becomes Harrison Ave., Leadville's "main street." The first street on the right side of Harrison is W. 8th, and The Governor's Mansion is located half way down the first block on the left hand side of the street.
From Denver and Points East
Take I-70 west to Exit 195, Copper Mountain/Leadville. Hwy. 91 branches to the left and terminates in Leadville. The drive takes you over Freemont Pass (11,318'), across the Continental Divide and past the Climax Molybdenum Mine; the worlds largest underground mine and largest known deposit of molybdenite, a mineral used in the making of alloys. As you crest Freemont Pass, you can see the headwaters of the Arkansas River to the south. Hwy. 91 merges with 24 as you enter Leadville.
From Glenwood Springs and Points West
Take I-70 east to Exit 171, Minturn/Leadville and head south onto Hwy. 24. The road continues past Notch Mountain and the ghost town of Gilman. Atop the Continental Divide is Tennessee Pass (10,424') and Ski Cooper. Hwy. 24 merges with 91 as you enter Leadville.
From Colorado Springs
Take Hwy. 24 west to Buena Vista, turning slightly right as the road merges with Hwy. 285. Continue straight on Hwy. 24 which will take you into Leadville. As you enter Leadville, Hwy. 24 becomes Harrison Ave., Leadville's "main street."
From Points South
From I-25, take Hwy. 50 west, exit 101, toward Canon City/Royal Gorge. Follow Hwy. 50 through Salida and turn right onto Hwy. 285. Stay straight and go onto Hwy. 24 which will take you through Buena Vista and on to Leadville.
