Welcome to the Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District
Total Number of Days/Nights: One
Itinerary Summary: These two communities, lying just 45 minutes west of Denver along Interstate 70, contain more than 300 structures dating from the 19th century Rocky Mountain mining boom. With museums, train rides, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, there is plenty to do in all seasons. But, to just wander the streets carries you back to another time. Special events include the July 4th celebration, Railroad Mining Days during Memorial Day, Aspen festivals in September/October, Bighorn Sheep Festival in November and Christmas Market the first two weekends of December.
Destinations Include
Historical Society Property
On arriving in Georgetown, stop at the Gateway Visitor Center at the Interstate interchange to finalize your plans. Maps, guidebooks, restrooms and friendly faces are available.
The Day Getaway
Close to Denver, Georgetown is truly the place to be away for a day. From Memorial Day through Labor Day ride over the High Bridge of the famed Georgetown Loop Railroad with a visit into the Lebanon Silver Mine. Have lunch in one of the town's many restaurants, or picnic in lovely City Park with afternoon visits to the Hamill House, Hotel de Paris, Energy Museum or a gentle walk around Georgetown or Silver Plume. In all seasons, enjoy walking or auto tours on the Guanella Pass Byway, which offer spectacular vistas of this mining landscape.
The Perfect Hideaway
Reserve a spot at one of Georgetown's motel, lodges or welcoming B& Bs. Spend a day for history as described above, and add a day for the outdoors by driving the byway, watching for wildlife, fishing the lake and hiking or skiing. Hikes of various difficulties are possible from the Guanella Pass Road, Silver Plume or from Interstate 70, west of town. In wintertime, these hiking routes are peaceful and mostly undiscovered cross-country and snowshoeing trails. For skiers and riders, Loveland Basin Ski Area is only 20 minutes up the road, making it easy to avoid the traffic back to Denver by staying in Georgetown for the night.
Additional Information
Lodging and Restaurants, www.georgetowncolorado.biz
Museums, www.historicgeorgetown.org
Georgetown Loop Railroad, www.georgetownlooprr.com
Loveland Basin Ski Area, www.skiloveland.com