Cities and Towns in Lake County, Colorado
Founded on 1861-11-01, Lake County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. The city of Leadville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Lake County has a population of 7,407 and area of 383.55 square miles (993 km²).
List of all cities in Lake County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Allison, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Bayfield, CO | 81122 | 970 |
| Breen, CO | 81326 | 970 |
| Chimney Rock, CO | 81122 | 970 |
| College Heights Durango, CO | 81301 | 970 |
| Durango, CO | 81301 | 970 |
| 81302 | 970 | |
| 81303 | 970 | |
| Gem Village, CO | 81122 | 970 |
| Hermosa, CO | 81301 | 970 |
| Hesperus, CO | 81326 | 970 |
| Ignacio, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Indian Agency, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Kline, CO | 81326 | 970 |
| Marvel, CO | 81329 | 970 |
| Oxford, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Purgatory, CO | 81301 | 970 |
| Redmesa, CO | 81326 | 970 |
| Southern Ute Indian Reservat, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Tamarron, CO | 81301 | 970 |
| Tiffany, CO | 81137 | 970 |
| Vallecito, CO | 81122 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lake County, Colorado
Leadville
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80461
- Latitude: 39.2508° N
- Longitude: 106.2925° W
City Location and History
Leadville, the county seat and largest city in Lake County, is nestled in the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 10,152 feet, making it the highest incorporated city in the United States. Founded in 1877 during the Colorado Silver Boom, Leadville quickly grew into one of the richest and most famous mining towns in America. The town was originally named “Slabtown,” but was later renamed Leadville due to the abundance of lead-silver ore in the area. Leadville’s history is deeply intertwined with the mining industry, attracting thousands of miners, entrepreneurs, and fortune seekers during its peak years. The town was home to notable figures such as Horace Tabor, a silver baron, and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, who survived the Titanic disaster. Although the mining industry has declined, Leadville has preserved much of its historic character and is now a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Leadville is served by the Lake County School District R-1, with Lake County High School being the primary secondary institution. The city’s major landmarks include the Tabor Opera House, built in 1879 by Horace Tabor, which remains one of the most significant cultural landmarks in Colorado. The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum offers exhibits on the history of mining in the region and the individuals who made significant contributions to the industry. The Leadville Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, encompasses many of the town’s original buildings, providing a glimpse into its storied past. The nearby Mount Elbert, Colorado’s highest peak, and the surrounding Sawatch Range offer opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing, making Leadville a gateway to outdoor adventure. The town’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and access to natural beauty makes it the heart of Lake County.
Twin Lakes (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81251
- Latitude: 39.0822° N
- Longitude: 106.3728° W
City Location and History
Twin Lakes is a small, unincorporated community located south of Leadville, near the shores of the Twin Lakes Reservoir, Colorado’s largest natural glacial lakes. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, and later became a popular stop for prospectors and miners during the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. The town of Twin Lakes was established in the late 1800s as a supply center for nearby mining camps, and its location along the route to Aspen via Independence Pass made it a key stop for travelers. Today, Twin Lakes is known for its stunning alpine scenery and serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation, particularly for those exploring the nearby mountains and trails.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twin Lakes is part of the Lake County School District R-1, with students typically attending schools in nearby Leadville. The community’s major landmarks include the Twin Lakes Historic District, which features preserved buildings from the town’s mining era, including the 1879 Red Rooster Tavern and the historic Twin Lakes General Store. The surrounding area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The Interlaken Historic Resort, accessible by a scenic trail along the lake, offers a glimpse into the luxury resort life of the late 19th century. The nearby Independence Pass, one of the highest paved passes in North America, provides breathtaking views and access to Aspen during the summer months. Twin Lakes’ combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities makes it a treasured part of Lake County.
Granite (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: Approximately 0.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 60 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81228
- Latitude: 39.0428° N
- Longitude: 106.2745° W
City Location and History
Granite is a tiny, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Lake County, along the Arkansas River, near the border with Chaffee County. Established in the 1860s, Granite was originally a gold mining camp and quickly grew as prospectors flocked to the area in search of fortune. The town was once a bustling center during the height of the Colorado Gold Rush, with a population that far exceeded its current size. However, as the gold deposits were depleted, the town’s population dwindled, and Granite became a quiet, rural community. Despite its small size, Granite’s history as a mining town is still evident in the remnants of its old buildings and the stories passed down through generations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Granite is part of the Lake County School District R-1, with students typically attending schools in Leadville. The community’s major landmarks include the Granite Cemetery, which dates back to the town’s early days and serves as a historical reminder of its gold rush past. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty, with the Arkansas River offering opportunities for whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking. The nearby Collegiate Peaks Wilderness provides hiking, camping, and mountaineering experiences, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. The historic Granite General Store, though no longer in operation, stands as a relic of the town’s former prosperity. Granite’s blend of historical significance, rural charm, and access to outdoor recreation makes it a unique and interesting part of Lake County.
Map of Cities in Lake County, CO
