Day 14 - Leadville, CO (Day 1)

The sun is out and the temperature is rising.  We're going to get high today ... by going to Leadville.  At 10,152 feet, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in the United States.

The route:
The 170 mile route went east on US-24 to CO-115, southwest on CO-115 to US-50 at Penrose, west on US-50 through Cãnon City and then along the Arkansas River through Salida to US-285 at Poncha Springs, north on US-285 to US-24 at Buena Vista, then north on US-24 to Leadville.

Views along the way:

US-50, leaving Cãnon City

US-50, south of Royal Gorge Park

US-50, approaching Salida

Deer along the Arkansas River

US-50 follows the Arkansas River from
Royal Gorge Park to Salida

US-24, approaching Leadville

Leadville, toward Mt. Sheridan

The temperature was in the mid-80s most of the way.  It began to drop shortly after we turned north at Salida and was down to the mid-60s by the time we got to Leadville.  It's supposed to dip to 42°F tonight.

Campground:
We arrived at the Sugar Loafin' RV Park at around 4pm.  It's a mountain campground; there are no city frills.  

An afternoon shower decided to let loose just as we were backing into the site.  We stopped backing, hopped into the trailer and waited 10 minutes for the rain to stop.

Site #16 - after the shower

An ominous thunderstorm moved in from the southeast at about 5pm.  It brought dark skies, lightning, very loud thunder, and some wind.  A lot of rain fell somewhere, but not here.

Here it comes!

These late afternoon thunderstorms
move quickly

Exploring:
We drove the few miles into Leadville to get the lay of the land.  It's a lively, attractive, little town. We'll report our discoveries over the next few days.

Quincys Restaurant & Tavern was highly recommended by one of Carol's friends.  We found it on Harrison Ave. in Leadville, tried it and now we know why.  They have an unusual, simplistic menu.  On Sunday through Thursday they only serve filet mignon (6, 9, 12 or 15oz).  They serve only prime rib (8, 12, 16, or 20oz) or slow roasted sirloin (7 or 11oz) on Friday and Saturday.  Our $8.95 6oz filet dinner included a salad, baked potato, warm bread and excellent service.  

Recommendation:
Quincys deserves your attention if you're in the area.