Leadville National Fish Hatchery provides many exciting visitor opportunities, as well as gives back to the local communities. Open to the public, the hatchery welcomes visitors for a closeup view of the fish production process. With over 36,000 visitors annually, the dedicated volunteer hosts at the Visitor Center bring the hatchery experience alive with educational hatchery tours.
In addition to the hatchery experience, visitors also have a bounty of nearby recreational opportunities to explore:
- Fish viewing and feeding
- Hiking/nature trails
- Fishing ponds
- Greenback cutthroat trout fishery
- Picnic/playground area
- Wildlife and birdwatching
- Photography
- Wilderness access
- Mountain hiking
- Cross country skiing
- Ice fishing
- Snowshoeing
Try your luck fishing on the 2 public fishing ponds at the hatchery site, or test your wildlife knowledge while hiking the surrounding sub alpine forests with its breathtaking views in the Mt. Massive Wilderness Area.
Be sure to bring your binoculars for the spectacular wildlife viewing, such as mountain blue birds, juncos, great blue herons, hawks, eagles, waterfowl, elk, deer, raccoons, porcupines, and fox.
Educational programs/tours are provided for the public and school groups during business hours.
The hatchery also participates in local public fishing festivities, such as the Annual Children's Fishing Day, and supports local community activities, such as the Leadville-100 bike and run race.
Partnerships with the local Lake County and Colorado Outward Bound School continue to help provide many recreational opportunities for visitors.
Leadville National Fish Hatchery is located 6 miles southwest of the city of Leadville along Highway 300. Come prepared for a day of fun!
2844 Highway 300
Leadville, CO 80461
719/486-0189
leadville@fws.gov
Last updated:
July 11, 2008
