The Concept and Community Effort (1993):

The Mineral Belt Trail project originated in 1993 as a response to the need for mitigating the environmental and historical impacts of the California Gulch Superfund Site cleanup in Leadville's historic Mining District. The project took shape through a collaborative community effort that aimed to find solutions for these challenges.

Community Priorities and Poll (1993):

The community recognized the importance of preserving and showcasing the unique mining heritage of the Leadville district. A poll conducted within the community included ideas like: a bike trail, bobsled rundown, training center, and a visitors center. The poll clearly highlighted the desire to create a multi-use, non-motorized trail. This trail would not only serve as a means of preserving history but also provide lasting recreational and practical benefits to the community and its visitors.

Building Partnerships (1993 - 2000):

From the outset, the project emphasized building partnerships with various stakeholders. These included City and County authorities, landowners, local civic and historic organizations, and State and Federal agencies. The partnership began with entities like Lake County, ASARCO Mining Company, the Leadville Coalition, the City of Leadville, and Colorado Mountain College. Eventually, it expanded to include a wide range of organizations, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Lake County School District, Greater Leadville Area Chamber of Commerce, and more.

Community Scoping Meetings and Quality Standards (1994 - 2000):

Community scoping meetings, led by Conlin Associates, the consulting firm contracted for the project's planning, emphasized the importance of designing and building the trail to the highest quality standards. The trail was to match the remarkable beauty and historical significance of the area it would traverse. Creating a tangible connection between Leadville's historic landscapes, buildings, structures, artifacts, and sites was paramount to the project's design.

Showcasing Historical and Cultural Resources (2000):

The Mineral Belt Trail's design and layout were meticulously crafted to showcase Leadville's historic and cultural resources. It provides legal access to significant historical and cultural sites, ranging from early exploration evidence to transportation systems servicing active mines, the bustling community that evolved to support residents, and the smelting industry responsible for processing ores.

Interweaving Rail Lines and Historical Landmarks (2000):

The trail seamlessly integrates segments of the three major rail lines that once served the Leadville Mining District in the early 1900s. It closely follows California Gulch, the site of Leadville's initial gold strike and earliest settlement, as it cuts through the mineral belt that earned Leadville the nickname "Colorado's Silver City."

Honoring Notable Figures and the "Cloud City" (2000):

The trail serves as a living history lesson, recounting the tales of notable figures from Colorado's past, such as Horace and Baby Doe Tabor, Meyer Guggenheim, Charles Boettcher, David May, Father John Dyer, and the "Unsinkable Molly Brown." It narrates the story of the construction of "Cloud City," with its ornate Victorian architecture that once housed entrepreneurs, miners, gamblers, outlaws, and legendary characters from Colorado's past.

Practical Function and Accessibility (2000):

Beyond its historical and recreational aspects, the trail was designed to serve practical purposes, connecting essential parts of the community, including schools, libraries, museums, and healthcare facilities. It provides access to the Leadville National Historic Landmark District and the renowned Leadville Mining District, making it an integral part of the community's infrastructure.

Design and Construction (1995 - 2000):

The trail features a 12-foot wide paved surface with 3-foot wide adjacent soft surface recovery zones, including two grade-separated bridges over county roads. It maintains an average grade of 3%, with maximum sustained grades of 5%. Signage adhering to AASHTO and MUTCD standards was installed, and the trail was striped to establish travel lanes. Curve radii were engineered for a design speed of 15 mph, with cross slope drainage established along its alignment. Construction commenced in the spring of 1995, and the trail officially opened to the public on July 29th, 2000.

Recognition and Future Plans:

The Mineral Belt Trail has received acclaim as one of Colorado's "Top 10" mountain trails. It has been awarded National Recreational Trail status at the request of the State of Colorado. Future plans include seeking Congressional designation as a National Historic Trail, further solidifying its significance in preserving Leadville's rich history and offering a remarkable recreational experience.