The historic mining town of Idaho Springs in the beautiful Clear Creek Canyon offers majestic mountain views and a variety of activities from rafting to gold panning.
Donate to Clear Creek Greenway Authority to help keep Clear Creek Canyon sustainable. For daily volunteer opportunities, volunteer at Loaves & Fishes, a local food bank. For animal lovers, see how you can help out at the Clear Creek Animal Shelter.
Blair Woodward, our favorite Idaho Springs resident, recommends a number of restaurants and activities below, but also suggests you visit the quirky surrounding towns near Idaho Springs. Not only is it an incredibly beautiful drive, but each town has a unique draw. Black Hawk is a small mining town that offers casinos and gambling right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Georgetown, another mining town, offers a historic railroad, which is a great activity for families.
This action-packed rafting trip will get your heart-pumping with incredible canyon views.
Take in the insane Mount Evans views during the via ferrata-assisted climbing and ziplining tour.
Depending on your group size there are a number of great lodging options through Airbnb in Idaho Springs, but this is one of our favorites with a great central location.
Finish lunch with a sampling of several Westbound & Down brews, from the array of IPAs to tripels, sours, saisons, stouts and many more.
This is our all-time favorite Idaho Springs adventure. You cannot miss this sunset and full-moon zipline tour, allowing you to see Colorado at the absolute best time of the day.
This streamside Airbnb is close to the moonlight zip and offers a great mountain feel that can sleep large parties.
A beautiful and moderate hike near Idaho Springs. There are plenty of other hiking options if you are looking for something easier or even more difficult.
Enjoy another scenic drive around the Clear Creek Canyon after dinner and who knows what adventure you may stumble upon.
Enjoy another day on the iconic river with a 1/3- or 1/2-day rating trip.
Try out this 1896 Victorian Airbnb cottage with mountain views.
This is the most perfect mountain home to stay in while you visit Georgetown. Take in the views and enjoy this newly renovated mountain home.