About Us

About the Airport

First laid out in 1961, the Lake County Airport in Leadville, Colorado is North America's highest public use airport. This distinction is very important due to the fact that the performance of an aircraft (namely its ability to take off and climb) deteriorates with an increase in altitude. In fact, many aircraft are operating above their manufacturer's recommended specifications when flying into and out of Leadville.

It is also this distinction that brings manufacturers and flight training programs from around the world to Leadville. Many companies use the airport as a base for high altitude performance testing, and many student pilots enjoy learning to fly safely in conditions that are likely to be more challenging than what they will face elsewhere in their flying careers. Lake County Airport also provides support to the United States Military for high altitude training and search and rescue operations.

Today the airport boasts a 6,400 foot long runway, an on-site National Weather Service Station, and a Global Positioning System (GPS) approach procedure which allows aircraft to land more safely. As of January 1, 2009, Lake County has taken over the day to day operations of the airport, and have laid plans to update the facilities even further.

About the City

Founded in 1877, Leadville is a former silver mining camp that lies near the headwaters of the Arkansas River, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. At a surveyed elevation of 10,152 feet, it is the highest incorporated city, and the second highest incorporated municipality, in the United States.

Today, Leadville is designated as a National Historic Landmark District, featuring 70 square blocks of Victorian architecture, as well as 20 square miles of mining history. The town's real wealth may be its authentic historic attractions, such as the only two remaining Tabor structures in the state, the Tabor Opera House and the recently renovated Tabor Grand Hotel.

Leadville is an excellent base from which to explore the state of Colorado, with plentiful nearby recreation in the surrounding mountains and lakes. The Colorado Trail provides convenient access to miles of hiking and biking trails. The route traverses Lake County and many of the country's best rafting rivers have their headwaters in the area. Additionally, no less than six ski areas and resorts are located within 50 miles or less from the city.