Leadville National Fish Hatchery

Leadville National Fish Hatchery is the second-oldest federal hatchery in the nation. Its grounds are open to the public for hiking and wildlife viewing, and include willow thickets, subalpine (spruce-fir) forest, and two public fishing ponds which can attract waterfowl, especially in late fall. Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles sometimes take advantage of the easy pickings here, and mammals on the property include elk and porcupine.

Restrictions: Obey all rules and regulations

County: Lake

Directions: From Leadville, head 3.5 miles south on US 24 to a left-hand bend in the highway. Just past the bend, turn right on CO 300. Head 2.2 miles down this road to the hatchery.

Alternate Directions: The tiny town of Texas Creek is along US 50 about 25 miles west of Canon City. In town, turn north onto Texas Creek Gulch road (CR 27). There is a BLM parking lot about a mile from the highway.

Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Spruce-Fir Forest, Streamside Willow

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Free

Parking: Parking lot

Lodging: Hotel in Leadville

Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Limited

Delorme: 47 C6

ROC: 86 A2

Latitude: 39.22514
Longitude: -106.39182

Contact Information

Project Leader: Josh Homer
(719) 486-0189
josh_homer@fws.gov

Visit the Website for Leadville National Fish Hatchery »

Additional Resources

Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2220944