Outdoor & Adventure Activities

Nature & Scenic Exploration

St Mary's Glacier – Scenic hike to a glacier and alpine lake (moderate difficulty) with stunning views nearby.

Mt. Evans Wilderness – Access to hiking trails and mountainous terrain; Mt. Evans offers some of the most dramatic alpine scenery near Idaho Springs.

Water Adventures

Liquid Descent – Highly rated whitewater rafting on Clear Creek.

Colorado Adventure Center - Whitewater Rafting and Clear Creek Rafting Co. – Additional rafting outfitters offering guided trips.

AVA Rafting & Zipline – Combines rafting and zipline experiences for a full adventure day.

Historic & Cultural Attractions

Argo Mill & Tunnel – Historic gold mining site with guided tours and opportunities to learn about Colorado’s Gold Rush past.

Historical Society of Idaho Springs & Visitor Center – Museum offering exhibits on local history and mining heritage.

Relaxation & Wellness

Indian Hot Springs – Classic Colorado hot springs with a tropical biodome pool, private baths, and outdoor warm-water experiences.

Dining & Local Flavor

Clear Creek Cidery & Eatery – Local cider bar with a relaxed atmosphere.

Westbound & Down Brewing Company and Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub – Breweries where guests can enjoy local craft beverages and pub fare.

Seasonal & Additional Options

Echo Mountain – Skiing, snowboarding, or tubing (winter season) with mountain views.

Scenic drives such as the Mount Blue Sky Scenic & Historic Byway (part of the area’s extensive byways) offer impressive views of the Rockies and historic mining districts.

Tips for Visitors

Idaho Springs’ downtown is walkable with shops, galleries, cafes, and places to browse local goods.

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing are abundant across Clear Creek County.

Georgetown (15 minutes)

A charming Victorian mountain town with classic Colorado character.

Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad

Stroll historic downtown shops

Grab coffee or lunch with mountain views

Perfect for a relaxed half-day outing.

Evergreen (30 minutes)

A scenic lakeside town with great food and nature.

Walk around Evergreen Lake

Cute boutiques and galleries

Excellent restaurants and wine bars

Great if guests want something mellow but beautiful.

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (seasonal, ~30–45 minutes)

One of the highest paved roads in North America.

Unreal alpine views

Wildlife sightings (mountain goats!)

Short hikes and scenic pull-offs

🚗 Best for clear weather days; bring layers.

Golden (30–35 minutes)

A lively town at the base of the Rockies with a mix of outdoors and culture.

Walk along Clear Creek

Shops, restaurants, and breweries

Easy access to trails and viewpoints

Nice balance of mountain + city energy.

Bonus Nearby Stops (if guests are adventurous)

Central City – historic casinos & old mining charm

Nederland – artsy vibe, great hikes, and alpine lakes