Step back in time and EXPLORE Clear Creek County where you can experience a day in the life of 19th century Colorado hard rock miner! Enjoy authentic mine and mill tours, take a train ride aboard a narrow gauge railroad through the Rocky Mountains, pan for gold or simply learn about our place in Colorado History, the Gold Rush and so much more!
In fact it all started in 1859 when Prospector George A. Jackson discovered gold at the confluence of Chicago Creek and Clear Creek triggering the Colorado Gold Rush. Today, as we sit back and reflect on more than 150 years of history, heritage, and culture, it is amazing how little has changed… But don’t take our word for it – simply come on up and see what rich history you will uncover as you visit various mining attractions and destinations scattered throughout the County!
Enjoy a scenic train ride aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad that provides exclusive access to the Lebanon and Everett Mines while winding you through the Rocky Mountains. At the mid-way point, stretch your legs and explore mining tunnels bored in the late 1800s. Please note, mine tours are only accessible by train and not available without the train ride package. Gold panning is included in the Everett tour and not available with the Lebanon tour.
646 Loop Drive, Georgetown | (888) 456-6777
Want to experience an operating mine owned by the longest continuing mining family in Colorado? Then look no further than the Phoenix Gold Mine. Enjoy the scenic drive along Clear Creek as you prepare to learn more about mining and milling while discovering gold, silver, and copper still in the earth
800 Trail Creek Road, Idaho Springs | (303) 567-0422
Visit the Argo Mill and Tunnel where a tour guide will explain the significance of the Argo Tunnel (once the longest mining tunnel in the world) and how it provided water drainage, ventilation and economical transportation of ore for surrounding mines. Gold panning included with price of tour, gemstone panning also available
350 Riverside Drive, Idaho Springs | (303) 567-2421
Head to the Edgar Experimental Mine, owned and operated by the Colorado School of Mines, which produced high-grade silver, gold, lead and copper in the 1870s. Today it is an underground laboratory for future engineers. (Groups of 10 or more only – Reservations Required)
365 8th Street, Idaho Springs | (303) 567-2911
Take a 1,350 foot electric train ride into the historic Griffith Mountain where you can view remaining gold and silver samples and see what mining was like in the 1800s. A great place to catch gold fever ~ It’s a BLAST!
1016 Biddle Street, Georgetown | (303) 569-2144
Schedule Your Tour Today!
Gold and Silver Mines of Clear Creek County
Did You Know?
Clear Creek County is home to the official start of the Colorado Gold Rush?
It’s True! – January 7, 1859 – George A. Jackson discovered gold at the confluence of Chicago Creek and Clear Creek in Idaho Springs!
Today, visit Idaho Springs, Empire, Georgetown, and Silver Plume which were four of Colorado’s original mining camps that later became boom towns that are still buzzing today! While here enjoy shopping, dining, or plan an overnight stay! And because we are located just 20 miles west of Denver, Clear Creek County offers the perfect destination for a simple day trip, weekend getaway or extended stay!
To complete your visit be sure to check out our hiking trails, attractions, scenic drives, or special events.