COME TO LIFE | Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Silver Plume, Black Hawk, Central City High Country Make a Break for the Near Mount Evans Scenic Byway Days 1 & 2 Chase Gold Rush lore, modern-day prospectors and railroad rides just 40 minutes west of Denver in the towns of Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Silver Plume, Black Hawk and Central City. Start early with a drive up the highest paved highway in North America. During the summer (weather permitting, reservations required), the Mount Evans scenic byway starts in Idaho Springs and climbs to top-of-the-world views. Or hook up with a rafting outfitter — several run this stretch of Clear Creek. Swing down to Idaho Springs, where an 1859 discovery ushered in the Colorado Gold Rush. That heritage lives on through well-preserved buildings and at the Visitor Center & Heritage Museum, with an exhibit on transportation history in a Colorado mining town. You can also pick up maps and tips for exploring the area. Head to walkable downtown for places to eat, craft beers and spirits, and cute boutiques. Take time to soak in the pools and geo-thermal caves at Indian Hot Springs. There are plenty of places to grab a thrill ride, including Lawson Adventure Park & Resort and the Sky Trek aerial park at Colorado Adventure Center. Speaking of mines, the ARGO Mill & Tunnel has tours and gold panning year-round. Journey west to Georgetown to visit Victorian-era homes and silver-boom relics at the Hamill House and Hotel de Paris museums, as well as exhibits at the Georgetown 124 1-800-COLORADO CELIN SERBO.
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2023: Page 124
