Detour to a Ghost Resort: When Plan B Becomes the Adventure

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Sometimes the best adventures come from unexpected detours. When bad weather derailed my plans to summit Mount Elbert, I discovered the hidden gem of Interlaken Trail near Leadville, Colorado – a 5-mile journey that transports hikers through time to a preserved "ghost resort" nestled along Twin Lakes.

The trail offers stunning views of Mount Elbert (Colorado's highest peak) before arriving at the historic Interlaken resort complex. The crown jewel is the Dexter Cabin, an impressive Victorian-era house complete with multiple bedrooms, sitting areas, and a distinctive cupola offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Walking through its rooms, you can almost feel the presence of the wealthy visitors who once vacationed here during Colorado's mining boom.

Founded in 1879 by Mr. Staley and later purchased by Mr. Dexter, this resort once represented mountain luxury at its finest. Guests enjoyed steamboat rides on Twin Lakes, billiards, and various outdoor activities on the expansive grounds. The resort's decline came with Mr. Dexter's death in 1899, but its buildings have been remarkably preserved. In the 1970s, the Bureau of Reclamation saved the structures by moving them to higher ground when developing Twin Lakes as a water storage reservoir – the original foundations now lie somewhere beneath the water's surface.

Beyond the main cabin, the site includes barns, bathhouses (surprisingly equipped with leather seats), and smaller outbuildings that help complete the picture of this once-bustling resort. The entire hike takes about three hours round trip, making it perfect for history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike who want to experience a fascinating piece of Colorado's past.

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