World Class Trail Connection Between Minturn and Leadville
A once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect and provide inclusive access to some of the most scenic views, storied historical sites, and unique geography in Colorado
Advocating for preserving a 35 mile section of the historic Tennessee Pass Subdivision rail corridor in between Minturn and Leadville via a rails to trail conversion. With a winding route that passes through deep canyons and high alpine meadows, the headwaters of the Eagle and Arkansas Rivers, historic Camp Hale National Monument, and connects Minturn, Red Cliff, and Leadville; now is the time to turn 20+ years of background work into action.
Where in Colorado??
The Tennessee Pass Subdivision runs roughly near US 24 in between Leadville and Minturn. Just over 100 miles from Denver via I-70 or CO-91, the segment is part of the “Copper Triangle” route and is a scenic byway. Camp Hale National Monument sits roughly halfway in between the two ends.
Outside this steep and windy section,the rail corridor continues out and onwards from each end point, meaning a rail banking arrangement would preserve rail access to the East and West for future passenger or local freight spur use. The entire 35 miles is located within Colorado’s 2nd and 7th Congressional Districts.
20 years in the making: updating and building upon prior groundwork
This vision isn’t new - nearly 20 years ago a diverse stakeholder group led by the state of Colorado tackled this project. A comprehensive study of the conversion of the entire Tennesse Pass line from Royal Gorge to Dotsero was completed in 1996 and included a signed letter of intent from then-governor Romer and the Chairman of Union Pacific Railroad to get it done. Over 190 letters of support were generated from governments, organizations, businesses, and citizens.
We’re building on the work that was done on the 1996 Heart of the Rockies Scenic Trail Feasibility Study and the subsquenent 1997 Trail Concept Paper for this vision of a scaled-back version connecting a section of the line. Learn more about this and what it will take to pick up where we left off in the 1990’s.
Get inspired
We look around the US and the world at examples of successful Rails to Trails projects that will leave you wondering “Why not us?”…
Dig in on the details
We’ve spent several years talking to stakeholders, compiling details, and learning about the background of this line, past efforts, and current developments. Visit our background information and links page for references and research.
“When you think about the natural beauty of Colorado and the history of our nation, you find it here: …soaring peaks and steep canyons; black bears, bald eagles, moose, mountain lions; waterfalls, pristine rivers, alpine lakes; the scent of wildflowers… and a stunning backdrop of ski slopes and iconic trails.”
— Presidential Remarks at Camp Hale designating the National Monument, Oct. 22, 2022
Supporting Organizations
