Springtime. It’s when the sun starts to shine and the flowers start to bloom. But for Leadville, they’re just getting started on the snow. Every March, this historic mining town turns its main street into a fast-paced winter playground for one of the most exciting events in the state: the Leadville Ski Joring and Crystal Carnival Weekend.
Dating back to 1949, the tradition was sparked when two locals witnessed a similar event in Steamboat Springs and decided to bring it home, Western style. The twist? Faster quarter horses, tighter turns and more daring jumps. This weekend of skijoring action draws athletes and thrill-seekers from across the country to watch horses gallop down Harrison Avenue, towing skiers through a wild course of jumps, gates and suspended rings—all at nearly 40 miles per hour.
It’s a celebration of grit, guts and community as families cheer from snowbanks, kids take turns trying mini skijoring behind snowmobiles and local businesses fill with the buzz of the season. There’s music, hot drinks and a festival spirit that refuses to thaw.
Experience the adrenaline and community spirit of this unique Colorado tradition. For event details and schedules, visit leadvilleskijoring.com. To plan your trip to Leadville, check out leadvilletwinlakes.com.