Leadville National Fish Hatchery, established in 1889, is the second oldest Federally operated fish hatchery in existence today. Located on 3,072 acres near the city of Leadville, the hatchery's subalpine forest surroundings with its cold, clean water supply and nearby source of native cutthroat trout populations provide the ideal spot for trout production. Originally, the hatchery produced trout that were distributed over the entire Rocky Mountain region. Waters which originally held only native cutthroat trout, or none at all, were stocked with additional trout. The Black Hills area and parts of Wyoming that held no native trout at all also were first stocked from this hatchery. In addition to the hatchery experience, visitors also have a bounty of nearby recreational opportunities to explore: Fish viewing and feeding, Hiking/nature trails, Fishing ponds, Greenback cutthroat trout fishery, Picnic/playground area, Wildlife and birdwatching, Photography, Wilderness access, Mountain hiking, Cross country skiing, Ice fishing, and Snowshoeing.
