MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
Mountain climbing in the Heart of the Rockies offers a unique challenge with access to iconic peaks like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the two highest summits in Colorado. Climbers are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views from these lofty elevations, diverse routes ranging from beginner-friendly scrambles to technical ascents, and the chance to experience the rugged grandeur of the Rockies up close.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Horseback riding in the Heart of the Rockies provides a timeless way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, with trails near Leadville and Fairplay leading through wildflower-filled meadows, dense pine forests, and up to panoramic alpine vistas. Riding through this rugged terrain not only connects you to the area’s rich Western heritage but also allows you to experience remote and serene locations that are often inaccessible by other means.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain biking in the heart of the Rockies offers thrilling rides through high-altitude trails surrounded by towering 14,000-foot peaks, where challenging climbs and technical descents test even seasoned riders. The combination of rugged terrain, thin mountain air, and sweeping alpine views creates an adrenaline-filled experience that captures the essence of adventure in this iconic region.
BIRD WATCHING
Bird watching in the Heart of the Rockies offers enthusiasts the chance to observe a diverse range of species, from majestic golden eagles soaring above Leadville’s alpine valleys to mountain bluebirds and ptarmigans inhabiting the tundra near Alma. The region’s varied ecosystems, including high-altitude wetlands, dense forests, and open meadows, make it a haven for bird enthusiasts seeking rare sightings.
ROCK CLIMBING
Rock climbing in the Heart of the Rockies offers unparalleled challenges and rewards, with sheer granite faces, rugged limestone cliffs, and various rock walls just north of Leadville (accessed by Hwy 91) drawing climbers from around the world. Whether scaling beginner-friendly crags or tackling advanced multi-pitch ascents, climbers are treated to sweeping alpine vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment unique to this rugged mountain terrain.
GOLD PANNING
Gold panning in the Heart of the Rockies offers a hands-on connection to Colorado’s rich mining history, with areas near Fairplay and Leadville known for their abundant placer gold deposits. Set against the stunning backdrop of alpine streams and historic mining sites, this activity combines the thrill of discovery with a chance to relive the adventures of the region’s 19th-century prospectors.
RIVER RAFTING
Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting in the Heart of the Rockies deliver unforgettable adventures on iconic waterways like the Arkansas River, known for its thrilling whitewater rapids and serene stretches surrounded by towering peaks. With options ranging from peaceful paddling on alpine lakes to navigating world-class rapids in Browns Canyon National Monument, the region offers a diverse and exhilarating experience for water enthusiasts of all skill levels.
STAR GAZING
Star gazing in the Heart of the Rockies is exceptional due to the high elevations and remarkably dark skies found in areas like Alma and Leadville, far from urban light pollution. The thin mountain air enhances visibility, providing crystal-clear views of constellations, meteor showers, and even the Milky Way, making it a prime destination for amateur astronomers and night sky enthusiasts alike.
HOT SPRINGS
Hot springs in the Heart of the Rockies stand out for their combination of therapeutic relaxation and stunning alpine settings, nestled among towering 14,000-foot peaks. The naturally heated mineral waters are enriched by the unique geology of the Rockies, offering a rejuvenating experience amid crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring views. Unlike many other hot springs in the U.S., these high-altitude soaks provide a sense of seclusion and serenity, often surrounded by pristine wilderness that enhances their restorative allure.
MOTOCROSS
Motocross in the Heart of the Rockies delivers an adrenaline-charged experience with trails and tracks winding through the rugged terrain of the 14er region. The high-altitude environment adds an extra pulse of intensity, challenging riders with steep climbs, hairpin turns and wildly unpredictable surfaces. Surrounded by towering peaks and sweeping mountain vistas, every twist of the throttle offers both physical and visual thrills in dramatic settings, making this the ultimate destination for enthusiasts of motocross racing.
FESTIVALS
Summer festivals bring the character of the Rockies to life with lively, outdoor gatherings rich with local artisans and music. Burro Days in Fairplay showcases the town’s mining heritage with hilarious burro races and a parade. Gold Rush Days in Buena Vista honors the area’s gold-mining past with live reenactments. Leadville Boom Days celebrate the town’s Wild West roots. And in Alma, Colorado’s highest incorporated town, Festival in the Clouds features live music with local art. Fun guaranteed!
ZIPLINING
Ziplining in the Heart of the Rockies delivers an unforgettable adventure, with courses near Fairplay, Alma, and Leadville offering thrilling rides over rugged forests, rushing rivers, and dramatic alpine valleys. The unique combination of high-altitude ziplines, panoramic mountain views, and the excitement of soaring through crisp alpine air creates an experience that perfectly showcases the Rockies’ natural beauty.
CAMPING
Camping in the Heart of the Rockies immerses you in a wilderness paradise, where star-studded night skies and the soothing sounds of nature provide a serene escape from everyday life. With an extensive range of camping facilities—from backcountry sites for the adventurous to well-equipped campgrounds with modern amenities—the Rockies cater to every camper’s dream.
GOLFING
Golfing in the Heart of the Rockies combines challenging play with stunning alpine scenery, especially at public courses like the Mount Massive Golf Course in Leadville and the Breckenridge Golf Club. At 9,680 feet, Mount Massive Golf Course is the highest-elevation course in North America, offering a mix of wide-open fairways and tree-lined holes with incredible views of surrounding peaks. Breckenridge Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, features three distinct nines—Bear, Beaver, and Elk—that wind through forests and open meadows at over 9,300 feet, making it a memorable test for golfers of all levels.
CYCLING
Cycling and mountain biking in the Heart of the Rockies offer an adrenaline rush through world-class trails renowned for their sweeping alpine views and thrilling terrain. With a mix of high-altitude single track, technical descents, and scenic paved routes, the region provides an unmatched experience for both seasoned riders and cycling enthusiasts.
FISHING
Fishing in the Heart of the Rockies provides a dream setting for anglers, with pristine alpine lakes, crystal-clear mountain streams and renowned rivers like the Arkansas, teeming with trout. The region’s mix of Gold Medal Waters and secluded backcountry fishing spots offers unparalleled opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
ATV-ING
ATVing in the Heart of the Rockies offers an exhilarating way to explore rugged backcountry trails, like those in the San Isabel and White River National Forest, which wind through alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic mountain passes. With access to high-altitude routes like the Alpine Loop, riders can experience breathtaking vistas and a thrilling connection to the region’s rich mining history.
SAILING
Sailing in the Heart of the Rockies on high-altitude lakes like Lake Dillon offers a dramatic backdrop of towering 14,000-foot peaks. The thin mountain air and shifting winds create dynamic sailing conditions that challenge even experienced sailors, while the surrounding alpine scenery adds unparalleled beauty to every voyage. Unlike coastal or lowland sailing, this high-elevation adventure combines the thrill of navigating unpredictable waters with the serenity of being immersed in Colorado’s pristine wilderness.
CAVING
Caving in the Heart of the Rockies offers a rare opportunity to explore a subterranean world shaped by millions of years of geological forces. Unlike low-elevation caves, these high-altitude caverns, such as the Cave Creek Cavern near FairPlay, reveal intricate limestone passages and hidden cathedral-like chambers. The remote, rugged settings beneath the towering 14ers provide unparalleled adventures that blend mystery with challenge, revealing the rarified beauty of the Rockies’ underworld.
HIKING
Hiking in the Heart of the Rockies offers an unparalleled adventure through breathtaking alpine landscapes, where towering peaks, pristine lakes, and vibrant wildflowers create a mesmerizing natural tapestry. The combination of fresh mountain air, abundant wildlife, and trails ranging from serene strolls to challenging ascents ensures a uniquely rewarding experience for adventurers of all levels.
YOUR INVOLVEMENT MATTERS
If your heart is in the Rockies, consider sharing your contact info so that we can keep you updated about news, events and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Every action you take helps to protect and preserve the Heart of the Rockies. By staying informed, practicing sustainable habits, and sharing your love for this incredible region, you contribute to safeguarding its natural beauty for generations to come.
© 2025 Heart of the Rockies. All Rights Reserved.
Mountain climbing in the Heart of the Rockies offers a unique challenge with access to iconic peaks like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the two highest summits in Colorado. Climbers are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views from these lofty elevations, diverse routes ranging from beginner-friendly scrambles to technical ascents, and the chance to experience the rugged grandeur of the Rockies up close.
Horseback riding in the Heart of the Rockies provides a timeless way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, with trails near Leadville and Fairplay leading through wildflower-filled meadows, dense pine forests, and up to panoramic alpine vistas. Riding through this rugged terrain not only connects you to the area’s rich Western heritage but also allows you to experience remote and serene locations that are often inaccessible by other means.
Mountain biking in the heart of the Rockies offers thrilling rides through high-altitude trails surrounded by towering 14,000-foot peaks, where challenging climbs and technical descents test even seasoned riders. The combination of rugged terrain, thin mountain air, and sweeping alpine views creates an adrenaline-filled experience that captures the essence of adventure in this iconic region.
Rock climbing in the Heart of the Rockies offers unparalleled challenges and rewards, with sheer granite faces, rugged limestone cliffs, and various rock walls just north of Leadville (accessed by Hwy 91) drawing climbers from around the world. Whether scaling beginner-friendly crags or tackling advanced multi-pitch ascents, climbers are treated to sweeping alpine vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment unique to this rugged mountain terrain.
Bird watching in the Heart of the Rockies offers enthusiasts the chance to observe a diverse range of species, from majestic golden eagles soaring above Leadville’s alpine valleys to mountain bluebirds and ptarmigans inhabiting the tundra near Alma. The region’s varied ecosystems, including high-altitude wetlands, dense forests, and open meadows, make it a haven for bird enthusiasts seeking rare sightings.
Gold panning in the Heart of the Rockies offers a hands-on connection to Colorado’s rich mining history, with areas near Fairplay and Leadville known for their abundant placer gold deposits. Set against the stunning backdrop of alpine streams and historic mining sites, this activity combines the thrill of discovery with a chance to relive the adventures of the region’s 19th-century prospectors.
Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting in the Heart of the Rockies deliver unforgettable adventures on iconic waterways like the Arkansas River, known for its thrilling whitewater rapids and serene stretches surrounded by towering peaks. With options ranging from peaceful paddling on alpine lakes to navigating world-class rapids in Browns Canyon National Monument, the region offers a diverse and exhilarating experience for water enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Hot springs in the Heart of the Rockies stand out for their combination of therapeutic relaxation and stunning alpine settings, nestled among towering 14,000-foot peaks. The naturally heated mineral waters are enriched by the unique geology of the Rockies, offering a rejuvenating experience amid crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring views. Unlike many other hot springs in the U.S., these high-altitude soaks provide a sense of seclusion and serenity, often surrounded by pristine wilderness that enhances their restorative allure.
Star gazing in the Heart of the Rockies is exceptional due to the high elevations and remarkably dark skies found in areas like Alma and Leadville, far from urban light pollution. The thin mountain air enhances visibility, providing crystal-clear views of constellations, meteor showers, and even the Milky Way, making it a prime destination for amateur astronomers and night sky enthusiasts alike.
Motocross in the Heart of the Rockies delivers an adrenaline-charged experience with trails and tracks winding through the rugged terrain of the 14er region. The high-altitude environment adds an extra pulse of intensity, challenging riders with steep climbs, hairpin turns and wildly unpredictable surfaces. Surrounded by towering peaks and sweeping mountain vistas, every twist of the throttle offers both physical and visual thrills in dramatic settings, making this the ultimate destination for enthusiasts of motocross racing.
Ziplining in the Heart of the Rockies delivers an unforgettable adventure, with courses near Fairplay, Alma, and Leadville offering thrilling rides over rugged forests, rushing rivers, and dramatic alpine valleys. The unique combination of high-altitude ziplines, panoramic mountain views, and the excitement of soaring through crisp alpine air creates an experience that perfectly showcases the Rockies’ natural beauty.
Summer festivals bring the character of the Rockies to life with lively, outdoor gatherings rich with local artisans and music. Burro Days in Fairplay showcases the town’s mining heritage with hilarious burro races and a parade. Gold Rush Days in Buena Vista honors the area’s gold-mining past with live reenactments. Leadville Boom Days celebrate the town’s Wild West roots. And in Alma, Colorado’s highest incorporated town, Festival in the Clouds features live music with local art. Fun guaranteed!
Camping in the Heart of the Rockies immerses you in a wilderness paradise, where star-studded night skies and the soothing sounds of nature provide a serene escape from everyday life. With an extensive range of camping facilities—from backcountry sites for the adventurous to well-equipped campgrounds with modern amenities—the Rockies cater to every camper’s dream.
Golfing in the Heart of the Rockies combines challenging play with stunning alpine scenery, especially at public courses like the Mount Massive Golf Course in Leadville and the Breckenridge Golf Club. At 9,680 feet, Mount Massive Golf Course is the highest-elevation course in North America, offering a mix of wide-open fairways and tree-lined holes with incredible views of surrounding peaks. Breckenridge Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, features three distinct nines—Bear, Beaver, and Elk—that wind through forests and open meadows at over 9,300 feet, making it a memorable test for golfers of all levels.
Cycling and mountain biking in the Heart of the Rockies offer an adrenaline rush through world-class trails renowned for their sweeping alpine views and thrilling terrain. With a mix of high-altitude single track, technical descents, and scenic paved routes, the region provides an unmatched experience for both seasoned riders and cycling enthusiasts.
Fishing in the Heart of the Rockies provides a dream setting for anglers, with pristine alpine lakes, crystal-clear mountain streams and renowned rivers like the Arkansas, teeming with trout. The region’s mix of Gold Medal Waters and secluded backcountry fishing spots offers unparalleled opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Sailing in the Heart of the Rockies on high-altitude lakes like Lake Dillon offers a dramatic backdrop of towering 14,000-foot peaks. The thin mountain air and shifting winds create dynamic sailing conditions that challenge even experienced sailors, while the surrounding alpine scenery adds unparalleled beauty to every voyage. Unlike coastal or lowland sailing, this high-elevation adventure combines the thrill of navigating unpredictable waters with the serenity of being immersed in Colorado’s pristine wilderness.
ATVing in the Heart of the Rockies offers an exhilarating way to explore rugged backcountry trails, like those in the San Isabel and White River National Forest, which wind through alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic mountain passes. With access to high-altitude routes like the Alpine Loop, riders can experience breathtaking vistas and a thrilling connection to the region’s rich mining history.
Caving in the Heart of the Rockies offers a rare opportunity to explore a subterranean world shaped by millions of years of geological forces. Unlike low-elevation caves, these high-altitude caverns, such as the Cave Creek Cavern near FairPlay, reveal intricate limestone passages and hidden cathedral-like chambers. The remote, rugged settings beneath the towering 14ers provide unparalleled adventures that blend mystery with challenge, revealing the rarified beauty of the Rockies’ underworld.
Hiking in the Heart of the Rockies offers an unparalleled adventure through breathtaking alpine landscapes, where towering peaks, pristine lakes, and vibrant wildflowers create a mesmerizing natural tapestry. The combination of fresh mountain air, abundant wildlife, and trails ranging from serene strolls to challenging ascents ensures a uniquely rewarding experience for adventurers of all levels.
YOUR INVOLVEMENT MATTERS
If your heart is in the Rockies, consider sharing your contact info so that we can keep you updated about news, events and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Every action you take helps to protect and preserve the Heart of the Rockies. By staying informed, practicing sustainable habits, and sharing your love for this incredible region, you contribute to safeguarding its natural beauty for generations to come.
© 2025 Heart of the Rockies. All Rights Reserved.