What Happened to Colorado’s Abandoned Mountain Paradise at Interlaken Resort?

Back in the late 1800s, Lake County, Colorado, was about five times the size it is in 2023. Going all the way back to 1861, it is one of the original 17 Colorado counties.

Lake County is home to Leadville, Colorado, and the nearby Twin Lakes, Colorado. Twin Lakes was once home to the highest-elevated mountain resort in the state of Colorado. It was known as Interlaken Resort.

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Where is Twin Lakes, Colorado?

Twin Lakes, Colorado is just off Highway 82 near Independence Pass. From the valley, visitors can see Colorado’s Mount Elbert and La Plata Peak high above the lakes left behind by huge glaciers. About 200 residents still call Twin Lakes home as of the 2020 census. Some refer to Twin Lakes as a Ghost Town, but it's technically still kicking.

The Mystery of Twin Lakes

Some of the earliest visitors to the Twin Lakes came down from Leadville, Colorado, and told tales of how the Twin Lakes have no bottom. They spoke of large holes in the bottom of the lake that swallowed up visitors who went in the water. You can listen to Derelict Doug on youtube in the video below.

Hiking to Interlaken Resort at Twin Lakes

When visiting Twin Lakes you'll find The Interlaken Trail on the Southeast side of the lake. You'll find markers for the National Register of Historic Places nearby. The hike along the shore of Twin Lakes will take you right to the old Interlaken Resort hotel and the remaining structures.

Scroll on to see what still could be one of the most beautiful places in Colorado.