Molly Brown

Named after the "unsinkable" Molly Brown on the Titanic, Molly Brown Campground sits on the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake in a shaded lodgepole pine forest, with access to boating, fishing, and hiking. The famous Molly Brown lived in the town of Leadville, just 5 miles east of the campground; she became wealthy from her husband's mining success and took on a life as a philanthropist, socialite and activist. The 1.2-mile Turquoise Lake Nature Trail is a gentle loop through the forest and down to the shoreline. It connects to the 6.4 mile Turquoise Lake Trail, which parallels the shoreline from the dam to May Queen Campground. It is recommended that hikers pick up a trail guide prior to departure to learn about the flora and fauna along this trail. On the lake, sailing, boating and canoeing are always enjoyed, and anglers seek out mostly mackinaw and rainbow trout. The two-loop campground offers single family sites, each equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and trash collection are provided, and firewood is for sale at the host site. Campsites are perched along the scenic waters of the lake. Nearby is the Mount Massive Wilderness area, a 30,540 acre stretch of forest land which encompasses Colorado's second highest peak, Mount Massive at 14,421 feet. Much of the wilderness is above timberline, with many alpine plant communities and permanent snowfields. The town of Leadville, a historic gold and silver mining town, is a fun place to explore with the family. Drive the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway to Independence Pass, one of the highest paved passes in Colorado, and continue over the pass to the town of Aspen, a well-known ski resort town.