Lake County Airport in Colorado: At Nearly 10,000 Feet Above Sea Level, it is the Highest public-use Airport in the Country

This Airport is So Unique and Special

CO – Leadville-Lake County Airport (KLXV) is a Colorado airport that has achieved notoriety because of its lofty location. At an elevation just shy of 10,000 feet MSL (Mean Sea Level) it has the distinction of being the highest airport for public use in not just the nation, but in all of North America. This airport is so unique and special that all who dare pilot a plane to its modest-length runway receive a document of achievement, marking an aviator’s first visit to the thin-air aerodrome. The document is appropriately titled the “Certificate of Navigation.”

Situated in a Wide-Open Flat Valley

One advantage of this otherwise challenging airport is that it is devoid of any obstacles that would make operating in and out of the airfield an even riskier proposition. In other words, unlike Aspen, or other similar mountain-based airports that typically sit in a bowl or valley floor, Lake County Airport is situated in more of a wide-open flat valley. Most approaches for landing start from the south, tracking down the valley until becoming established on the final for landing.

Thin Air Combined with The Heat of Summer

With concern for obstacles out of the way, there are indeed other things pilots must contend with to ensure a safe takeoff or landing. For example, density altitude is a big deal for any aircraft small or large, regardless of whether it is jet or reciprocating engine powered. In essence, the thin air at such a high altitude, when combined with the heat of summer can substantially impact aircraft performance. Warm surface air at this airport in the mid-70s Fahrenheit can make an airplane think it is really at 12,000 or 13,000 feet.

Much Longer Takeoff and Landing Rolls

With high-density altitude, there are simply fewer air molecules passing over the wings, meaning less lift. This combined with reduced powerplant, or engine performance, also resulting from fewer air molecules, equates to much longer takeoff and landing rolls. In more extreme cases, once density altitude calculations have been carefully reviewed, pilots may find out that they cannot even operate in or out of an airport until local field conditions (i.e., density altitude) improve.

The Towering Rocky Mountains

Here is an interesting and entertaining YouTube video on operating at this very high-elevation airport called Leadville-Lake County Airport (KLXV) in Colorado. The video offers aerial views of what it is like to fly into or out of this high-flying airfield. Perhaps, the airport’s most noticeable features from the air are the towering Rocky Mountains that sit perched in the distance. Mount Elbert and the appropriately named Mount Massive, are in Lake County. The airport is so high in elevation that many aircraft designers and manufacturers use it for high-altitude flight testing.

Aircraft and Engine Performance

Airbus and others like Bell Helicopter routinely use the airport to run their aircraft through a wide range of tests related to aircraft and engine performance. Even unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones have been tested on-site at Lake County Airport. One of the big advantages of using the airfield for testing is that it usually always has calm to very light winds in the early morning hours. Learn more about this unique high-altitude testing program by clicking here.

The Highest Incorporated City in the Country

Leadville, Colorado, is a historic mining town perched high up in the Rocky Mountains at a staggering elevation of 10,152 feet, making it the highest incorporated city in the country. Brimming with history and the natural beauty one might expect, Leadville delivers an abundance when it comes to outdoor activities and unique attractions for those visiting as well as for residents.

Interesting Things to Do and See

Historic Downtown Leadville: Stroll through a historic and eclectic downtown area, that overflows with Victorian architecture and a variety of museums such as the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as the Heritage Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into all the important contributions Leadville has made over the years to the mining industry.

Tabor Opera House: First constructed in 1879, this historic and vibrant opera house features a variety of performances and tours, providing a host of cultural enrichment and entertainment.

Turquoise Lake: Just a few miles from central downtown, this scenic lake offers virtually unlimited opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. The Turquoise Lake Trail is a perfect choice for a leisurely hike or bike, boasting the most stunning of mountain views.

Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad: Another mainstay of the area, this scenic train ride experience offers breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the area’s natural beauty.

Mount Elbert and Mount Massive: These two towering peaks, the highest and second highest in Colorado, respectively, draw seasoned and novice hikers and climbers from all over. For those looking for a rugged challenge, summiting either of these peaks ends with truly spectacular views and a sense of immense physical accomplishment.

Ski Cooper: In the winter, Ski Cooper has a host of family-friendly skiing packages and snowboarding with less crowded slopes as compared to some of the bigger mainstream resorts. The nearby Tennessee Pass Nordic Center provides opportunities for cross-country skiing and even snowshoeing.

Leadville Cost of Living

Leadville has a relatively lower cost of living when compared with many other Colorado mountain communities. As of 2024, the cost-of-living index in Leadville is in the 105 range, which is slightly above the national average of 100. This includes expenses such as housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare.

Cost of a Mid-Range New Home

The housing market in Leadville is relatively more affordable compared to other similar mountain destinations such as Aspen or Vail. As of mid-2024, the average price for a mid-range new residential home in Leadville is approximately $450,000. This price point reflects homes with typical modern amenities, comfortable and spacious living spaces, and proximity to the town’s main activities and attractions. However, prices can vary quite a bit based on the actual location, size, and specific custom features of the home being purchased.

Relatively Affordable Cost of Living

Overall, Leadville, Colorado, is best defined by a unique blend of historical significance and charm, rugged outdoor adventures, and relatively affordable living, making it an attractive destination for both visitors and potential residents, despite its high elevation. Best of all, at such a high altitude, one can expect cleaner air and healthier living overall. Whether just flying in for the day to experience a high-altitude airport, or staying long-term, Leadville has something for everyone.