Hayden Meadows Recreation Area
With ADA-accessible interpretive trails, five wetland boardwalks, and two bridges surrounding a small reservoir along the Arkansas River, the Hayden Meadows Recreation Area is a fisherman’s dream. GOCO funds helped build a seven-acre pond and restrooms, and add fishing docks and picnic tables— amenities that make the area a popular stop along the Top of the Rockies Scenic and Historic Byway.
Hayden Ranch Historical Preservation
In 1998, Aurora purchased more than 1,800 acres of land and water rights just from Lake County, Colorado. In the process, the city acquired a historic homestead called Hayden Ranch, which included 16 structures including hay and horse barns, a ranch house and bunk house. The ranch, located just south of Leadville, dates back to the late 1800’s when it served as a hay farm, and later as a cattle ranch.
In an effort to preserve the historic site, working with the Lake County Open Space Initiative, in 2005, the city transferred ownership the 36-acre ranch to the Colorado Preservation, Inc. CPI was able to secure a $200,000 State Historical Fund Stabilization Grant to restore the ranch, working in partnership with students from the Colorado Mountain College.
8 miles south of Leadville on US 24
Directions
- Take I-70 west to CO-91 South (Copper Mountain exit - 91 miles), then merge onto US 24 South in Leadville (22 miles). Follow US 24 South through Leadville and continue on U 24 to Rd 10(8 miles) until you get to the Hayden Meadows Recreation Area is on the left (east)
Details and maps of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area