Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County: Summer/Fall 2018 by Wideawake Media

MOUNTAIN

Clear Creek County

Summer/Fall 2018

GUIDE

RECREATION EXIT GUIDE

LOVELAND PASS SILVER PLUME GEORGETOWN EMPIRE LAWSON DOWNIEVILLE DUMONT HERMAN GULCH BAKERVILLE IDAHO SPRINGS CENTRAL CITY/HIDDEN VALLEY FLOYD HILL/BEAVER BROOK EVERGREEN PARKWAY

Summer Recreation • Attractions • Town Information • Event Listings Dining Guide • Coffee Shops • Breweries & Distilleries • Shopping Camping • Lodging • Casinos • Rafting • Scenic Drives • Dispensaries

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CONTENTS

Wideawake Media, Inc.

— PRODUCTION/CONTENT —

DESIGN/EDITORIAL: Jeffrey V. Smith MMACeditor@gmail.com

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AD SALES: Jennifer Pund mtnadventureguide@gmail.com

Wideawake Media, Inc.

P.O. Box 99, Rollinsville, CO 80474 OFFICE: (720) 443-8606 CELL: (720) 560-6249 issuu.com/wideawakemedia MMACeditor@gmail.com mtnadventureguide@gmail.com We regret any mistakes, typos or incorrect information. If you find a mistake, let us know so we do not make it again. All information contained in the Mountain Adventure Guide is subject to change. ©2018 Wideawake Media, Inc. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

CONTACTS ALL EMERGENCIES: CALL 9-1-1 STATE/FEDERAL Colorado Highway Conditions 303-639-1111 • cotrip.org Colorado State Patrol - Golden 1096 McIntyre St., Golden Non-Emergency: 303-273-1616 www.colorado.gov USFS Clear Creek Ranger District @ Visitor Center 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs 303-567-4382 www.fs.usda.gov/main/arp SILVER PLUME Silver Plume Town Hall 710 Main St., Silver Plume 303-569-2363 • silverplumeco.com GEORGETOWN Gateway Visitor Center 1491 Argentine St., Georgetown 303-569-2405 georgetowntrust.org Georgetown Community Center & Visitor Information 613 6th St., Georgetown 303-569-2888 town.georgetown.co.us GEORGETOWN POLICE DEPT. & Georgetown Town Hall 404 6th St., Georgetown Non-Emergency: 303-569-2555 town.georgetown.co.us Historic Georgetown 305 Argentine St., Georgetown 303-569-2840 historicgeorgetown.org EMPIRE EMPIRE POLICE DEPARTMENT & Empire City Hall 30 E. Park Ave., Empire Town Hall: 303-569-2978 Non-Emergency: 303-569-2281 empirecogov.us Empire Visitor Center 30 East Park Ave., Empire IDAHO SPRINGS Chamber of Commerce 303-567-0387 idahospringschamber.org

Idaho Springs Heritage Museum, Visitor Center & USFS Ranger Station 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs 303-567-4382 historicidahosprings.com fs.usda.gov/main/arp Idaho Springs City Hall 1711 Miner St., Idaho Springs 303-567-4421 colorado.gov/idahosprings IDAHO SPRINGS POLICE DEPT. 3000 Colo. Blvd., Idaho Springs Non-Emergency: 303-567-4291 colorado.gov/idahosprings CLEAR CREEK COUNTY Clear Creek County Bus Transit “The Prospector” 303-679-2552 www.co.clear-creek.co.us Clear Creek County Government 405 Argentine St., Georgetown 303-679-2300 co.clear-creek.co.us Clear Creek County Open Space 401 Argentine St., Georgetown 303-679-2305 co.clear-creek.co.us CLEAR CREEK SHERIFF’S OFFICE 405 Argentine St., Georgetown Non-Emergency: 303-679-2376 clearcreeksheriff.us CLEAR CREEK EMS (AMBULANCE) 405 Argentine St., Georgetown Non-Emergency: 303-679-4215 co.clear-creek.co.us CLEAR CREEK FIRE AUTHORITY 681 C.R. 308, Dumont Non-Emergency: 303-567-4342 clearcreekfire.com Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District/ Clear Creek Recreation Center 98 12th Ave., Idaho Springs 303-567-4822 clearcreekrecreation.com Clear Creek Tourism Bureau 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs clearcreekcounty.org

COVER PHOTO: JEFFREY V. SMITH Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

WELCOME TO CLEAR CREEK Get off the road and stay awhile…

lear Creek County has a lot to offer. From an unparalleled amount of year-round outdoor recreational opportunities to historic, Victorian-era towns with popular restaurants, bars, stores and lodging. It’s the best of Colorado all in one place. Many people discover the county driving through it on Interstate 70 to well-known places further west. Once they discover the county’s many world-class amenities and abundant recreation opportunities are easy to get to and not crowded, Clear Creek County becomes the destination. Made up of more than 75% public lands, Clear Creek County offers an unequalled amount of outdoor recreational opportunities. Choose from activities including ATV tours, bicycling, camping, climbing, fishing, hiking, horse riding, hot springs, hunting, mine tours, mountaineering, leaf viewing, OHV drives, picnicking, rafting, scenic driving, wildlife viewing and more.

KYGT RADIO 102.7/103.9

Clear Creek County community radio station KYGT, affectionately known as "The Goat," provides broadcast entertainment, news and information with a laid back Clear Creek attitude. Volunteer DJ’s play what they feel, everything goes. Listen in while in the county. Visit clearcreekradio. com for a schedule and online stream.

Clear Creek County

Be aware, this guide only scratches the surface and points out just a few of the county’s many popular recreation spots and attractions. Use this guide as a starting point for discovering all Clear Creek County has to offer. Explore the state’s new interactive trail map at cts.state.co.us/cotrex for more ideas on where to recreate throughout the county. To learn more about the county, call the Clear Creek County Tourism Bureau at 303-567-4660, e-mail office@clearcreekcounty.org or visit clearcreekcounty.org for maps, trails, updated event information and much more.

MAPS

he maps in this guide are for general reference only and to help navigate the Clear Creek County exits of Interstate 70. Consider a smartphone app, Forest Service map or other maps for precise information. A reliable topographic map and compass should accompany anyone on any trip more than a short, impossible-to-miss footpath. Keep in mind, both cell phones and GPS receivers rely on technology that’s subject to failure. EXIT ICONS

HIKING

SKATE PARK

GOLF

SCENIC OVERLOOK

BIKING

HUNTING

WILDFLOWERS

MUSEUM

OHV/4WD

HORSE RIDING

PLAYGROUND

LIBRARY

FISHING

DOG WALK/PARK

ZIP LINE

RANGER STATION

14ERS

PICNIC AREA

GAS

BOAT LAUNCH

CAMPING

VISITOR CENTER

BREWERY

RAFTING

MINE TOUR

LODGING

DISPENSARY

SWIMMING

PROSPECTING

ATM/BANK

DISTILLERY

FOOD

BAR

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

Avenza Maps is a mobile app that allows maps—including National Forest and Clear Creek County maps for non-motorized and motorized trails—to be downloaded for offline use on iOS, Android and Windows smartphones or tablets. Use the built-in GPS in the device to track your location. Visit avenzamaps. com to learn more.

Summer/FALL activities

lear Creek County features a wide range of summer and fall recreation options from quiet backcountry trails to active adventure parks, many of which are some of the state’s more popular due to easy access and options for all abilities. Worldclass hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, camping and more can be found through the county. This guide only points out a few of the options and should be considered a jumping-off point for discovering all the county and region has to offer.

ADVENTURE & AERIAL PARKS In recent years, several adventure parks, zip lines and aerial attractions have opened in Clear Creek County by river rafting companies. The latest to open, Sky Trek, is at the Colorado Adventure Center, 2697 Stanley Road east of Exit 235, and features three skill levels with more than 55 obstacles, elements and ziplines. Don’t miss Lawson Adventure Park, 3440 Alvarado Road, west of Exit 233, which offers more than 40 acres of activities including the Zorb, a challenge course bungee trampoline, climbing wall and much more. ATV TOURS Experience the serenity of untamed Rocky Mountains, breathtaking vistas of the Continental Divide and Mount Evans and the exhilaration of riding your own ATV on a guided tour from a variety of local outfitters. BICYCLING Hundreds of miles of trails in the surrounding national forest are accessible by mountain bike. Generally, trails are hilly and rocky, winding through pine forests and open grass lands. Due to mining, the county also has hundreds of miles of railroad grade and mining roads. There is also excellent street biking on frontage roads and paved trails with gentle grades along Clear Creek. CAMPING Clear Creek County is home to five developed National Forest campgrounds accessed from Guanella Pass Scenic Byway and Hwy. 103. Seasons vary, however dates range from mid-May through mid-October. With a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest system lands. No overnight camping is allowed at trailheads, picnic areas or in day-use parking areas. Speak with a USFS Ranger at 303-567-4382. CLIMBING Areas for rock climbing in Clear Creek County include the Chicago Lakes Trail and Clear Creek Canyon. A great deal of rock can be found along Hwy. 103 at Exit 240. The road follows Chicago Creek South to the Mount Evans drainage where the creek has carved its way through granite. Clear Creek Canyon is known for its accessible sport climbs and a few interspersed traditional climbs. The canyon as a whole has a variety of ratings. FISHING Clear Creek County offers unsurpassed fishing in its alpine lakes, creeks and streams. Numerous locations along Clear Creek provide fishing access and Georgetown Lake is very accessible. A fishing license is required for people 16 and older to take fish, amphibians and crustaceans. State laws and regulations apply everywhere, so check with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife at cpw.state.co.us for complete details. Popular locations in the

National Forest include Clear Lake Campground, Clear Lake Picnic Site and Guanella Pass Campground on Guanella Pass Scenic Byway at Exit 228, Echo Lake Campground and Chicago Lakes Trail off Hwy. 103 at Exit 240, Hassell Lake Trail and Loch Lomond off Fall River Road at Exit 238. Licenses can be purchased at Clear Creek Outdoors in Idaho Springs, Colorado Country General Store in Empire, Downieville Fuel Stop Sinclair in Downieville, and Safeway in Idaho Springs. Mt. Evans Trout Fishing, 4125 Chicago Creek Road at Exit 240, offers pond fishing without a license for a fee. FITNESS & POOL Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District’s Idaho Springs Recreation Center, 1130 Idaho St., offers low-priced day-use passes to its pool/hot tub and fitness center’s full range of cardiovascular and weight-lifting equipment and classes. Call 303-5674822 or visit clearcreekrecreation.com for information. HIKING & BACKPACKING Hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and backpacking—from gently sloping foothills and open forest to steep rocky slopes and wind-swept tundra—can be found throughout Clear Creek County. Hiking guides are available at the Ranger Station in Idaho Springs or online. Guides describe trails and identify special regulations, such as restrictions on dogs or horses, permit requirements, or other special regulations. Hiking in Mount Evans Wilderness requires a free mandatory self-issuing permit available at trailheads or entry points. Many county trails are busy on weekends and parking can be limited. Look for a new hiking map published by the county for detailed information on 37 popular hikes. HORSE RIDING Clear Creek Ranger District and other local public land management agencies maintain many miles of trails accessible to equestrian uses. The Ranger Station in Idaho Springs offers trail information and detailed maps and can locate trailheads with adequate stock trailer parking. Pack animals are not allowed in most developed campgrounds or where posted. Few sites offer equestrian-specific facilities. A few areas or trails prohibit horses. Sites that are generally popular for horseback riding include Bard Creek Trail and Jones Pass Trailhead near Empire, the Captain Mountain Trail near Echo Lake Campground, Hells Hole Trail near the Chicago Creek Picnic Area. HUNTING A variety of hunting is available in select areas of Clear Creek County during certain open seasons including Bakerville, Mount Evans and Bergen Peak areas. Visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website, cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/hunt.aspx, for complete information about hunting, licenses, open areas and season dates.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

SUMMER/FALL ACTIVITIES MINE TOURS Several mine tours can be found in Clear Creek County including Capital Prize Gold Mine and Georgetown Loop’s Everett and Lebanon Mines at Exit 228; the Phoenix Gold Mine at Exit 239; the ARGO Gold Mill, Tunnel & Museum in Idaho Springs at Exit 240/241; the Hidee Gold Mine and Coeur d’Alene Mine Shaft House near Central City at Exit 243. MOUNTAINEERING There are four 14ers in Clear Creek County: Mount Bierstadt (14,060’), Mount Evans (14,264’), Grays Peak (14,270’) and Torreys Peak (14,267’). These peaks are within less than 10 miles of each other and some of the easiest in the state to summit. LEAF VIEWING Leaf viewing in Clear Creek County in September is spectacular. The color lasts only about a week in most places so it’s difficult to predict when exactly leaves will turn in any given location. So select travel dates, but not destinations. Head to Guanella Pass at Exit 228, Fall River Road at Exit 238 or Hwy. 103 south of Idaho Springs at Exit 240 to see amazing color. NATURE VIEWING Wildlife can be seen in its natural habitat throughout the county from urban areas to the highest peaks. Head to Colorado Division of Wildlife’s Georgetown Wildlife Viewing Station to view one of Colorado’s largest herds of Bighorn sheep.

OHV RIDING Four-wheel driving is a popular activity on some of the more challenging roads. Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) designate where you can legally drive. Check with the Ranger Station in Idaho Springs for a free MVUM. Keep in mind, forest roads are also shared with mountain bikers, hikers and others. Check for forest road openings at ranger district offices. Popular OHV areas include Barbour Fork Trailhead, Bill Moore Lake/Empire Loop, Devil’s Canyon, Fall River Reservoir, Jones Pass Trailhead, Kingston Peak, Loch Lomond, Saxon Mountain, Argentine Central Railroad/Waldorf Road and Yankee Hill. PROSPECTING/GOLD PANNING Due to the influx of hundreds of thousands of gold-seekers seeking their fortune during the Gold Rush, most areas suitable for gold panning became patented mining claims a century ago and are now private property. This is especially true for property on or near creeks and rivers. Clear Creek Canyon Park at Exit 244 is one of the best places to legally prospect. RAFTING & KAYAKING Experience the thrill of white water on parts of Clear Creek during spring and summer runoff. Go on your own or pick from a variety of exciting trips offered by commercial rafting companies. The Lawson Whitewater Park at Exit 233 and various points along Clear Creek Canyon at Exit 244 are popular places to launch boats.

CLEAR CREEK COUNTY Summer Recreation Guide

EXIT EXIT EXIT EXIT 233 234 235 232

EXIT 218 EXIT 216

EXIT 221

EXIT 226

EXIT 238 EXIT EXIT EXIT EXIT EXIT 239 240 240 243 244

EXIT 228

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

EXIT 247 EXIT 248

Continental Divide Loveland Pass Summit County

TRAILS BakervilleLoveland Trail ● Grizzly Peak Trail ◆ Loveland Pass Lake Trail ● Mount Sniktau Trail ◆ West Ridge Trail ■

218

LOVELAND PASS is located on the Continental Divide on U.S. Hwy. 6 at an elevation of 11,990 feet. It’s a popular destination for high-elevation hiking. Trails ranging from easy to difficult lead to nearby mountain peaks and an alpine lake and can be accessed from the Loveland Pass parking lot on the Continental Divide. Wildflowers, wildlife and scenic views above treeline are abundant. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash. U.S. Hwy. 6 is also a scenic alternative route to Summit County. T2 16

AT THIS EXIT

ccess Loveland Pass, the Bakerville-Loveland Trail and U.S. 6 West to a variety of alpine trails and Summit County.

EXI

216

LOVELAND PASS

BAKERVILLE TO LOVELAND TRAIL This 9.8-mile, lightly-trafficked, out-and-back paved trail parallels the interstate and Clear Creek as it goes through the forest. The trail, a EXIT 216 ek segment of the Continental Divide Cre ar e l C National Scenic Trail, has an easy grade and connects to nearby Herman Gulch and Watrous Gulch trails. The trail entrance is north of the Loveland Valley parking lot.

Loveland Pass

To Summit County

HERMAN Gulch

o amenities or connections are at this exit, but its trailhead provides access to a lake and Continental Divide Trail.

AT THIS EXIT Herman Gulch Trailhead & Parking Herman Lake

TRAILS Bard Creek Trail ◆ Herman Gulch Trail ■ Watrous Gulch Trail ■ 8

HERMAN GULCH exit provides access to private homes and the popular Herman Gulch Trailhead. Take the frontage road, Watrous Way, on the north side of the interstate and head east to a well marked parking area and vault toilets. All trails at this exit begin at the parking lot. HERMAN GULCH TRAILHEAD A short frontage road on the north side of the interstate leads to a parking area and the Herman Gulch Trailhead. Herman Gulch Trail is a 6.4 mile out-and-back trail ending at Herman Lake with access to the 5.8-mile Watrous Gulch ad Gulch Ro Trail, Bard Creek Trail and ConHerman tinental Divide Trail. Above Watrous Way treeline, wildflowers surEXIT 218 round the ground like a quilt. Primitive campClear Creek ing, horses and dogs on a leash are allowed. Herman Gulch Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

BAKERVILLE 221

railheads to easily accessible 14ers, the paved BakervilleLoveland Trail and other hiking spots are found at this exit.

BAKERVILLE is an exit with no amenities and great access to the backcountry and an

easy, paved recreation trail to Loveland Ski Area. Trailhead parking and a vault toilet can be found on the south side of the interstate. Grizzly Gulch and Grays Peak trails begin further down Steven’s Gulch Road, C.R. 321. Dogs are allowed on trails, but must be kept on a leash. GRAYS PEAK NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL This trail offers the opportunity to summit Grays Peak (14,270’) and Torreys Peak (14,267’), the two highest points along the Continental Divide, in a single day. The trailhead is about 4 miles south on Stevens Gulch Road, C.R. 321. The road is rough and may need an OHV in parts. Weekend usage is very heavy. BAKERVILLE TO LOVELAND TRAIL This 9.8-mile, lightly-trafficked, out-and-back paved trail parallels the interstate and Clear Creek as it goes through the forest. An underpass connects to Herman Gulch and Watrous Gulch trails. GRIZZLY GULCH TRAIL This 5.1 mile out-and-back trail, which follows an old road along a creek, ends in a basin filled with wildflowers.

EXIT 22 Clear Creek

Silver Valley Ro

Stevens Gulch Road

To Silver Plume

Bakerville

Always be prepared for sudden weather changes and start hiking early to avoid afternoon lightning storms.

AT THIS EXIT Trail Head Parking Hunting on State Trust Land Grays and Torreys Peaks (14ers)

TRAILS BakervilleLoveland Trail ■ Grays Peak National Recreation Trail ■ Grizzly Gulch Trail ■ BE PREPARED: HIGHER ELEVATIONS MAY NOT BE SNOWFREE UNTIL LATE JUNE OR EARLY JULY

SCENIC DRIVES

everal of Colorado’s more spectacular drives are located within Clear Creek County. Three designated Colorado Scenic Byways, and several one-of-a-kind routes connecting them, showcase the area’s unparalleled scenery and unique towns. While numerous routes in the region require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles, these routes are accessible to any vehicle.

FALL RIVER ROAD Fall River Road connects I-70 to the St. Mary’s Glacier area at Exit 238. The 9-mile route reaches heights above 10,000 feet and includes beautiful views along the way. GUANELLA PASS SCENIC BYWAY The paved road, which begins in Georgetown at Exit 228, climbs its way up the 11,700-foot pass through pine and aspen forests. Wildflowers and views abound. The Mount Evans Wilderness borders most of the east side of the road. LARIAT LOOP SCENIC BYWAY This byway is a 40-mile route that includes the Evergreen Parkway at Exits 251 and 252 features Colorado’s first gateways to the mountains. Sharp curves, winding roads, spectacular views, and waysides are featured.

LOVELAND PASS/ U.S. 6 Loveland Pass, reached via U.S. 6 at Exit 216, is a high mountain pass with hairpin curves and steep drop offs that reaches an elevation of 11,990-feet. It features unmatched views of surrounding peaks and Colorado scenery. MOUNT EVANS SCENIC BYWAY The highest paved road in the country climbs more than 7,000 feet in 28-miles before reaching 14,130 feet. Most of the route, reached from C.R. 103 at Idaho Springs Exit 240, is above timberline where rare plants, alpine wildflowers, and a wide variety of wildlife flourish. U.S. HIGHWAY 6 This road, which begins near Exit 244, is a scenic alternative route to Golden that descends through a long, narrow gorge.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

226

Silver Plume

ilver Plume’s historic district, three trail heads and a scenic railroad are at this exit. There’s also a café, bar and dispensary.

SILVER PLUME is a former silver-mining AT THIS EXIT Dinger Park George Rowe History Museum National Historic District Georgetown Loop Railroad - Silver Plume Depot Griffin Memorial

TRAILS 7:30 Mine Trail ■ Argentine Central Railroad Grade Trail ● Clear Creek Greenway:

Silver Plume to Georgetown Express ●

EVENTS

camp on Clear Creek at 9,116 feet and a population of about 200. The federally designated Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic District comprises Silver Plume, Georgetown and the Georgetown Loop Historic Mining & Railroad Park between the two towns. While there are few roadside amenities, there is a large park with picnic shelter, playground, history museum, intimate bed and breakfast, weekend bar, coffee café, marijuana dispensary and popular trailheads.

JULY 2018

3 Original Musical Melodrama “The Lady or the Devil” & Dinner at George Downing Playhouse. 6 p.m. Reservations: 303-5692023. $15-$35 4 Independence Day Ice Cream Social at Dinger Park. 2-4 p.m.

NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT The Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District recalls the days of the Colorado Silver Boom from 1864-1893. The federally designated U.S. National Historic Landmark features well-preserved buildings, mining remnants and other unique structures.

BREAD BAR LIVE MUSIC

1010 Main St. • 720-722-7323. breadbarsp.com

GEORGE ROWE MUSEUM AT SILVER PLUME SCHOOLHOUSE The museum—located at 315 Main St. in a 1894, five-room, Romanesque brick schoolhouse—displays mining artifacts highlighting the town’s rich mining history and a restored 19th century school room. It is open daily, noon to 5 p.m. ARGENTINE CENTRAL RAILROAD TRAIL This former railroad grade ultimately connects to Silver Dale trails and includes a non-motorized, 2.4mile segment that begins in Silver Plume and winds up the mountain to Pavilion Point along with a OHV section accessed via Guanella Pass from Georgetown. The trail passes old mining sites and the train whistle of the Georgetown Loop Railroad can be heard. At Pavilion Point, there are fantastic views of Silver Plume and the railroad. The maximum grade is 7.5 percent. 7:30 MINE TRAIL Hike this narrow mining road to the Griffin Monument two miles up and enjoy views of the valley, or continue another .25 mile to the old mine. Limited parking is available at the trailhead and on Main Street. Be respectful of the many private homes and do not block driveways. 7:30 Mine Trail

r St

Silve

SILVER PLUME TO GEORGETOWN EXPRESS Hike or ride this paved path with a moderate grade between the two towns and above the Georgetown Loop Railroad.

Water St

Dinger Park Clear Creek

rd St

850 Main St., Silver Plume 303-569-3121 Mon-Sat: 10am-Noon

Stre

a Woodw

Main

et Stre Main

ison

Mad

EXI

Water St

EXIT 226 Argentine RxR Grade Trail

Mountain

Silver Plume

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

228

GEORGETOWN

historic district with shops, attractions, restaurants, visitor centers and recreational opportunities are at this exit.

GEORGETOWN, founded in 1859, was once the third-largest town in Colorado thanks to nearby silver mines. It’s now home to only 1,000 residents, but on weekends, it buzzes with visitors in town to shop its unique stores, admire its Victorian-era buildings, dine at popular restaurants and ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad. In summer and fall, incredible recreation opportunities are easily reached from the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway including camping, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing scenery, wildlife and fall leaves. Georgetown Lake and a trail around it offer additional opportunities for fishing and hiking. AT THIS EXIT Gold Mine Tour Guanella Pass Scenic & Historic Byway Georgetown Lake Georgetown Loop Railroad - Devil’s Gate Depot Hamill House Hotel de Paris Museum Mt. Bierstadt National Historic District Off-Leash Dog Park OHV Trails Playground Shopping Visitor Center Wildlife Viewing Station 700 6th St., Georgetown, CO 80444 800-275-8777 Mon-Fri: 8-4:45 Sat: 9-noon 12

GATEWAY VISITOR CENTER The visitor center, located at Exit 228, is open 365 days a year with travel and local information, a gift shop, real-time traffic information and access to COTrip.com. Restrooms are open 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; other services are open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 1491 Argentine St., 303-569-2405, georgetowntrust.org NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT The Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District recalls the days of the Colorado Silver Boom from 1864-1893, and the active local historical society sees that it stays that way. The federally designated U.S. National Historic Landmark features well-preserved buildings and mining structures including Hamill House Museum, Hotel de Paris, Energy Museum and many buildings on Sixth Street. GUANELLA PASS SCENIC BYWAY The Guanella Pass Scenic Byway connecting Georgetown to Grant and Hwy. 285, is a perfect introduction to Colorado’s mountains as it heads up the 11,700-foot pass. Climbing to timberline, the paved, 22-mile byway has views of 14,060foot Mount Bierstadt and alpine tundra. The area is popular for camping, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing scenery, wildlife and fall leaves. TO REDUCE IMPACTS, NEW RESTRICTIONS ON PARKING, CAMPING AND CAMPFIRES IN UNDESIGNATED AREAS WITHIN A QUARTER-MILE OF GUANELLA PASS ROAD, PORTIONS OF LEAVENWORTH ROAD AND ALL OF SILVER DOLLAR LAKE ROAD BETWEEN 10 P.M. AND 6 A.M. WERE IMPLEMENTED THIS YEAR. Visitors may camp and have campfires in developed campgrounds with 70 campsites and 30 designated dispersed sites; park in designated areas at any time; hike Mount Bierstadt Trail at any time; backpack out of the restricted area to camp; and use the area during non-restricted times. Check the Guanella Pass Road Information Line at 303-679-2422 x2 for updates.

EVENTS JUNE 2018

2-3 Railroad Days at Georgetown & 8-9 Loop Railroad. 9 a.m. $. 8-10 Georgetown Indie Con at Georgetown Heritage Center. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. $95-$150. 16-17 Father’s Day Train Rides at Georgetown Loop Railroad. 9 a.m. $. 23 Slacker Half Marathon, Relay & 4 Mile Races at Georgetown Lake. 8 a.m. $20-$65.

JULY 2018

4 Independence Day Parade, BBQ & Fireworks at Georgetown. Noon-9:30 p.m. Free. 4 Tom Hayden Memorial 5k Run/Walk at Strousse Park. 8 a.m. $. 28 Parlours & Perennials, A Private Peek Into the Past Historic Home Tour at Georgetown. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $34-$40.

AUGUST 2018

11 Georgetown Plein Air Event at Georgetown Heritage Center. Various. Free-$40. 11 Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathon at Georgetown Lake. 8 a.m. $75-$105. 18-19 Devil’s Peak Downhill Skateboarding Race at Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. $.

SEPTEMBER 2018

2 Gold Rush Duck Race at Clear Creek. Noon-2 p.m. $5-$20.

HERITAGE CENTER EVENTS 809 Taos St. • 303-569-0289 www.georgetowntrust.org/

ALPINE RESTAURANT LIVE MUSIC 1106 Rose St. • 303-569-0200 alpinerestaurantgeorgetown.com

TROIA’S RESTAURANT LIVE MUSIC 511 Rose St. • 303-569-0289 troiasrestaurantgeorgetown.com

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

228 TRAILS Argentine Central Railroad Grade Trail ● Clear Creek Greenway:

GEORGETOWN (cont.) GEORGETOWN HERITAGE CENTER A restored 1874 school reopened as the Georgetown Heritage Center, a place to exhibit and practice crafts and fine arts, hear lectures, enjoy live performances and other activities. View rotating art exhibits and tour the building on weekends. Find a schedule of events online. 809 Taos St, Georgetown. 303-569-0289. georgetowntrust.org

GEORGETOWN LOOP RAILROAD Journey back in time with a ride on one of Colorado’s great narrow gauge railroads. Be astounded by the Devil’s Gate High Mt. Bierstadt Trail ◆ Bridge, Rocky Mountain views and the engineering marvel that is the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Two mine tours Rutherford Trail ■ are also offered. Multiple departures from Georgetown Silver Creek Trail ◆ and Silver Plume occur daily. Special events are offered all season including Railroad Days, June 2-3 and 9-10; Silver Dale Father’s Day Trains, June 16-17; Fall Colors Trains in Trails ● ■ September; Pumpkin Fest, Oct. 6-7; and Octoberfest Silver Dollar Lake Trains, Oct. 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28. From Exit 228, and Murray Lake take Argentine Street south to a fork in the road. Trail ■ Stay to the right and follow the road to Devil’s Gate Tom Bennhoff Lake Depot. 646 Loop Dr., Georgetown. 888-456-6777. georgetownlooprr.com Trail ● WILDLIFE VIEWING STATION The Georgetown Wildlife Viewing Station offers a safe place to see bighorn sheep from coinoperated viewing scopes. To visit, take Exit 228, turn left (north) on Alvarado Road and follow the binocular signs until reaching the viewing station next to Georgetown Lake.

Georgetown Lake

Silver Plume to Georgetown Express ●

Road ountain Saxon M

Clear Creek Drive

Argentine St

EXIT 228

Main Stre

Clear Creek

Greenway Park

Griffin St

Rose S t

Argentin

14th St

Main Stre

e St

15th St

13th St

Werlin Park/ Off-Leash Dog Park

11th St

Rose S t t tine S

6th St

Taos S t

4th St

7th St

5th St

3rd St

Biddle

9th St 8th S

Griffin St Main Stre et

10th St

City Park/ Playground

Argen

SAXON MOUNTAIN 4WD ROAD Saxon Mountain is a 14.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail with lots of switchbacks, plentiful wildflowers and great views of Georgetown, Mt. Evans and I-70 corridor. It is rated difficult and conditions can change rapidly. Call the Clear Creek Ranger District at 303567-3000 for current conditions. Loo

SCENIC I-70 OVERLOOK A pull-out for eastbound vehicles at Interstate 70 mile 226 provides scenic views of the valley between Silver Plume and Georgetown. Clear Creek and the Georgetown Loop Railroad are visible. There are no restrooms. Learn about Bighorn Sheep and other wildlife from signs.

TOM BENNHOFF LAKE TRAIL This easy, wide, flat gravel walking path loops around Georgetown Lake for about 1.5 miles. It is open to hiking and biking Gateway Park year round while providing easy access for fishing. Reach the Silver Creek Trail via a short connector trail.

22nd St

2nd St Guanella Pass Road

Georgetown

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Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

232

EMPIRE/U.S. 40

he U.S. 40 exit accesses Empire and the recreation opportunities of Berthoud Pass, Jones Pass and Grand County.

EMPIRE is part of Colorado’s early mining history and the search for gold. Gold was found here in 1860. The new settlement was called Valley City, then changed to Empire City in 1861. It was incorporated in 1882. The town, a popular place to stop for food, coffee and sweets, on the way to and from recreation hot spots on Berthod Pass and beyond. Today’s population is about 383 people.

Bard Creek Trail ◆ Berthoud Pass Trail ■ Butler Gulch Trail ◆ Continental Divide National Scenic Trail ◆ Jones Pass Trail ● Vasquez Peak Trail ■

BILL MOORE/NORTH EMPIRE LOOP OHV TRAILS The Bill Moore/North Empire loop, north of town offers a network of roads for OHV opportunities. This road is very rocky and steep in places especially to Bill Moore Lake. Be sure to have a four-wheel drive and high clearance vehicle. Refer to the Ranger District’s motor vehicle use map, free at the Ranger Station in Idaho Springs, for more information on roads in this area. PICNIC SITES To North Empire Jeep Two National Forest picnic sites—Big Trails Bend, and Clear Creek—are located To Berthoud off U.S. 40 four and eight miles north Pass/Grand County of Empire. Each has a vault S u nny Av Pionee e r Road toilet, multiple tables Park Av and fire grates. e

in Ave

Park Av e

To Minton Park/Off-Leash Dog Park

Main S

treet

ear Creek

tt Road

Mounta Dailey

West Fork Cl

215 W. Park Ave., Empire, CO 80438 303-569-2908 Mon-Fri: 10-1:30 Sat: 8:30-11:30

Hanche

Empire

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

TO EXIT 2

Moun

tain A ve

Avery St

TRAILS

Ball St

Rocky Mountain National Park West Entrance

JONES PASS TRAILHEAD The Jones Pass Trailhead offers a variety of hiking opportunities including hiking on the Continental Divide Trail via the Henderson Spur trail and/or driving to the top of Jones Pass. The moderate to steep climb at Butler Gulch travels through spruce and fir forest on a narrow closed road leading to an open bowl and is a great for viewing wildflowers in the summer.

Cowles St

Picnic Sites

Off-Leash Dog Park

treet

Bill Moore/North Empire OHV Trails

Main S

Grand County/ Winter Park

BERTHOUD PASS TRAILHEAD The Berthoud Pass Trailhead, located on the Continental Divide, offers a variety of summer activities. It offers a warming hut with vault toilets, interpretive information and is open year round. Hiking opportunities include the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Hike 19 miles on the CDNST through the Vazquez Peak Wilderness to the Herman Gulch Trailhead, just west of the historic town of Georgetown. Or hike east/northeast to James Peak through the James Peak Wilderness.

Jones Pass

Freem an

Berthoud Pass

a St.

Berthoud Falls

Guanell

AT THIS EXIT

MINTON PARK/OFF-LEASH DOG PARK Minton Park features restrooms, playground, picnic tables, ball field, skate park, off-leash dog park and the Empire Cemetery which is circled by a trail. The trail starts behind the restrooms and continues along the creek to U.S. 40 and the east end of Empire. Finish the loop by walking through the town, turning on S. Main street and walking back to your car.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

233

LAWSON

his eastbound-only exit has no amenities, but provides access to Clear Creek, an adventure park and rafting company.

Eastbound Only!

AT THIS EXIT Adventure Park ATV Tours OHV Trails Whitewater Park

LAWSON is a small, unincorporated community along Clear Creek. It was originally named Free America after nearby silver mines opened in 1876 and designed as a place for families to raise children. The railroad renamed it Lawson. The construction of Interstate 70 in the 1960s removed the north side of the town. Today, it’s home to a public whitewater park, rafting companies and an adventure park. LAWSON WHITEWATER PARK This park is an easily-accessible public access to Clear Creek for fishing, rafting, kayaking and canoeing with parking, restrooms and changing area. It features several in-stream structures and the original Lawson Hole along with handicapped-accessible trails at the put-ins and take-outs.

Lawson

Whitewater Rafting

TRAILS Spring Creek/ Silver City Road OHV Trails ◆

234

To Empire

EXIT 23

To Georgetown

FISHING CLEAR CREEK Clear Creek from its source near Locveland Pass to Golden is a very popular and easily accessible river for fishing. It has a good population of small to mid-sized Rainbow and Brown Trout and abundant bug life.

Clear Cree

Alvarado Road

DOWNIEVILLE

usinesses at this easy-on, easy-off exit include a truck stop, fast food, coffee shop, dispensaries and more.

USE EXIT 234 FROM BOTH DIRECTIONS TO ACCESS ROADS/BUSINESSES AT EXITS 233 & 235

AT THIS EXIT Adventure Parks

DOWNIEVILLE is named for the 1870 Downieville Ranch, a 32-room hotel and stable known for its fresh-baked breads for guests by the founder’s wife. The hotel was later converted to a boardinghouse before it burned to the ground in 1947. In 1955, a port of entry was constructed and is still in use today. Today, businesses servicing interstate travelers and skiers are located at the exit. It also provides access to a variety of rafting companies, zip lines and adventure parks.

SPRING CREEK/SILVER CITY ROAD OHV TRAILS This off-road, expert-only rock crawling trail located near Lawson Exit 233 (and accessed from both ATV Tours direction at Exit 234) is the “go to spot” for hard wheeling within a short drive of Denver. It sees very Historic Dumont heavy traffic during the weekTo Lawson Schoolhouse ends, so don’t expect to be on this trail alone. Traversing large OHV Trails To Dumont Clear Cre boulders are the norm on the ek EXIT 234 Whitewater Rafting 5-mile route. The trail climbs Whitewater Park straight up the mountain proDownieville viding spectacular views. Animal Shelter

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

235

DUMONT

his westbound-only exit has no amenities, but provides access to the local animal shelter and historic 1909 Dumont School.

Westbound Only!

AT THIS EXIT Aerial Adventure Park & Zipline Animal Shelter Historic Dumont School House Philadelphia Mill Site Park Whitewater Rafting 307 C.R. 308 Dumont, CO 80436 303-567-4907 Mon-Fri: 12:30-4:30; Sat: 8-11:45

238

DUMONT was founded in 1859 as Mill City, but changed its name in 1880 to honor Colo-

nel John M. Dumont, a pioneer and influential mine owner. It was once an important stage coach stop known for ore stamping mills and smelting. Today, it is a quiet community with an active historical society and well-preserved school house. HISTORIC DUMONT SCHOOLHOUSE The one-room Dumont Schoolhouse was built in 1909 and is now listed on the National Registry of Historic Sites. The site also has a cabin that belonged to founders of the town of Lawson. mcvhs.org

To Downieville

Mill Creek Road

Clear Cre ek t Road

EXIT 235

Dumon

To Idaho

Stanle y Roa Springs d

Dumont

CLEAR CREEK/GILPIN COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER Charlie’s Place is a modern, county-owned animal shelter serving the residents of Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties. 500 W. Dumont Road. 303-6792477. charliesplaceshelter.org

SAINT MARY’S/ALICE

all River Road and St. Mary’s Glacier/Alice are the only destinations available at this exit. There are no amenities.

oad yR nle

Sta

ST. MARY’S GLACIER and the EVENTS community of Alice are 9 miles above Exit 238. The area AUGUST 2018 is rich in mining history and was home to a ski area from 9mi 11 GlacierFest 2018 at Silver Lake. the 1930s through 1986. The glacier hike, and its stun11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. AT THIS EXIT ning views, is one of the top tourist destinations in Clear Creek County. The 3/4 mile trail is considered an easy hike. Fall River Road Leashed pets are welcome. Six miles up Fall River Road, Rainbow Road leads to Fall River Reservoir, Saint Mary’s Glacier Chinns Lake and Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Fall River Lock Lomond which provides hiking access to James Peak Wilderness. Road EXIT 238 Historic Alice Clea PARKING AT ST. MARY’S GLACIER r Cr eek School House The only legal parking for St. Mary’s Glacier trailhead are two TRAILS pay parking lots south and north of the trailhead. There are Camping of any kind is rest rooms and trash facilities at both lots, which cost Saint Mary’s Glacier NOT ALLOWED in the $5 a day, per vehicle. There is NO PARKING on Fall Trail ● St. Mary’s area. Illegal EXIT 2 River Road or in subdivisions. Find com3 8 campers are subject to Lock Lomond plete details and additional communia fine of up to $500. Trail ■ ty regulations at stmarysglacier.com. 20

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

MOUNT EVANS MOUNT EVANS SCENIC BYWAY, which begins in Idaho Springs and climbs more than 7,000 feet in

its 28-mile length, reaches an altitude of 14,130 feet at the summit. The route offers scenic views of the Continental Divide, mountain goat and bighorn sheep herds, wildflowers and pine forests. Overlook spectacular views of distant mountain peaks, alpine lakes and glacier valleys along the way. The road is open 24 hours a day, weather permitting, through the first weekend in October. Access to the top is closed at Summit Lake after Labor Day. The lower section remains open until Oct. 8. Weather changes quickly and drastically on the summit. Regardless of conditions at the base, be prepared for intense sunlight, cold temperatures, snow, hail or rain, extreme wind and low oxygen levels. The road can close any day in summer due to winter-like conditions. Mount Evans is a very popular destination for thousands of visitors. Expect heavy traffic, limited parking with full parking lots and lines on most weekends and especially during holiday weekends. The best time to visit is during the week and mornings. For the latest road information, visit coloradodot.info. To Georgetown

West Chicago Creek

il s Tra

Trail

Burning Bear

Cub C

Tra i

Tra il

Grant

reek T rail

Meridian

Deer Creek

C.R

. 43

an e Ro lla P ad as s

To Kenosha Pass

lie

Mount Evans Wilderness

Threemile Whiteside

Ros a

Mount Evans State Wildlife Area

Tra i

ake Ab yss L

l rai eT ak

Mount Evans Wilderness

Cre

To Evergreen

Cub Creek

ian

l Tra i

Tra il

Threemile Trai

yss Ab

Roosevelt Lakes Trail

Cub

rid

MT. EVANS SUMMIT

ood Trail Tanglew

Gua nell Roa a Pass d

lie

a rtr

l rai sT

Lake

er Beav ows Meadail Tr

C.R. 47

Lake ago Chic

mit

Sum

Upper Bear Creek Road

Camp Rock

ek Cre ian l Ind Trai

Summit Lake

MT. BIERSTADT

Lost Creek

UPPER GOLIATH Lincoln Lake Trail

Bier Trai stadt l

Ros a

Captain Mou ntain Trail

Resthouse Mea

Hells Hole Trai

Echo Lake

dows Trail

South Chicago Creek Trail

ECHO LAKE

SUMMIT LAKE

Mt.

FEES (required 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) Mount Goliath Natural Area - $10 Summit Interpretive Site - $10 Summit Lake Park - $5

Mount Evans Wilderness

Guanella Pass

To Evergreen Parkway

South Chicago F.S. 2 Creek

Guane

lla Pas

s Road

Clear Lake

ad Squaw Pass Ro

Cre Lo ek st Tra il

. F.S

Hells Hole

To Idaho Springs

Mount Evans Recreation Area

Paving projects with possible delays and closures occur June 11-15 or June 18-21, depending on weather. The entire road is closed June 9 until 11 a.m. for the Mount Evans Ascent and July 21 until 2 p.m. for the Bob Cook Memorial Hill Climb bicycle race. To Morrison/ Denver

Bailey

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;˘ Summer/Fall 2018

239

IDAHO SPRINGS - WEST

esidential areas and west Idaho Springs businesses are at this exit along with access to a gold mine tour and town trails.

IDAHO SPRINGS - WEST is the best way to access Stanley Road/C.R. 312 and various rafting companies, adventure parks and a gold mine tour. This is also a great place to begin a street bike ride along Interstate 70 frontage roads or easy hike along town trails.

TRAILS Clear Creek Greenway Segment: Big Five Trail & Idaho Springs Trail ●

EXIT

239

Colorado

Blvd.

y Roa Stanle

Clear Creek

Idaho Springs West

Virginia St

EXIT 239

Colorado

Blvd. Idaho St

9th Ave

Whitewater Rafting

IDAHO SPRINGS TRAILS A parking lot at the Exit 239 eastbound off-ramp is the start of a network of trails that connect to 17th Avenue downtown. The Big Five Trail runs east along Clear Creek, intersects the Idaho Springs and Prospector trails, then meets Charlie Tayler Water Wheel Trail at Exit 240/Hwy 103.

8th Ave

West Idaho Springs Businesses

5th Ave

Stanley Road Bikeway

4th Ave

Gold Mine Tour

PHOENIX GOLD MINE TOUR The Phoenix Gold Mine offers an authentic trip into Colorado mining history. Enjoy an educational and fun tour of the mine and pan for gold. Take Exit 239 and head west on Stanley Road to C.R. 136/Trail Creek Road. 800 Trail Creek Road. 303-567-0422, phoenixgoldmine.com

3rd Ave

AT THIS EXIT

Miner St

RAFTING

lear Creek is a steep, narrow, technical river that is both challenging and fun. It attracts boaters from the Front Range and those traveling through on their way to the high country. Excursions offer Class I-V rapids through July and sometimes into August. Numerous companies provide professionally guided trips on the creek.

THE ADVENTURE COMPANY

12847 US Hwy 24/ 285, Buena Vista theadventurecompany.com • 800-497-RAFT

ADVENTURES IN WHITEWATER

DOWNSTREAM ADVENTURES 409 E. Park Ave., Empire raftcoloradowhitewater.com 303-848-4595

1041 C.R. 308, Dumont adventuresinwhitewater.com 970-724-1122

GEOTOURS WHITEWATER RAFT

AVA IDAHO SPRINGS

KODI RAFTING

BROWNS CANYON RAFTING

LIQUID DESCENT

CLEAR CREEK RAFTING CO.

MAD ADVENTURES

COLORADO ADVENTURE CENTER

MILE-HI RAFTING

431 Chicago Creek Road, Idaho Springs coloradorafting.net • 800-370-0581 30375 U.S. 6, Idaho Springs, CO raftbrownscanyon.com • 719-275-2890 350 Whitewater Road, Idaho Springs clearcreekrafting.com • 303-567-1000

229 Hwy. 8, Morrison georafting.com • 800-660-7238

999 C.R. 308, Dumont whitewatercolorado.com • 970-668-1548 1896 Stanley Road, Idaho Springs coloradorafting.com • 970-372.2870 20 W. Dumont Road, Dumont madadventures.com • 800-451-4844

PERFORMANCE TOURS, INC.

115 Gregg Dr., 81211 Buena Vista performancetours.com • 800-328-7238

RAFT MASTERS

2804 Colorado Blvd., Idaho Springs raftmasters.com • 719-275-6645

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES 1117 N. Hwy 287, Fort Collins shoprma.com • 800-858-6808

ROCKY MOUNTAIN WHITEWATER 1313 Idaho St., Idaho Springs gorafting.co • 303-900-4802

TIMBERLINE TOURS

1432 Chambers Ave., Eagle timberlinetours.com • 970-476-1414

2697 Stanley Road, Idaho Springs, CO 3627 Alvarado Road, Dumont raftingcolorado.com • 877-947-7238 milehirafting.com • 303-416-5997 Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018 22

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

240

IDAHO SPRINGS

istoric downtown and the route to the Mount Evans and Echo Lake areas, Hwy. 103, are located at this exit.

IDAHO SPRINGS, named for Chief

AT THIS EXIT Echo Lake Park Hot Springs Resort Mount Evans Scenic Byway National Historic District Ranger Station Recreation Center Squaw Mountain Lookout Underhill Museum Visitor Center

TRAILS Barbour Fork Trail ■ Charlie Tayler Water Wheel Trail ● Chief Mountain Trail ● Chicago Lakes Trail ◆ Clear Creek Greenway:

Big Five Trail, Idaho Springs Trail & Scott Lancaster Memorial Trail ● Prospector Trail ● Resthouse Meadows Trail ■ 24

Idaho and nearby natural hot springs, was founded in 1859 and is the site of the state’s first significant gold discovery. Mining was largely responsible for its creation and growth, and the city continues to preserve and celebrate its heritage. During the late 20th century, the town evolved into a tourist center and popular stop for anyone heading to and from recreation areas along Interstate 70 or nearby Mount Evans, Echo Lake, Squaw Pass and adjacent national forest lands. A Victorian-era downtown offers unique shops, popular restaurants and breweries, while mine tours and historic sites provide insight into local history.

EVENTS JUNE 2018

15-17 Rapid Grass Bluegrass Festival at Shelly/Quinn Baseball Fields. $25-$200.

NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT The downtown district between 13th Avenue and the east end of the 1700 block is a National Historic District. It has been the commercial center of the community since its development in the late 19th century and continues to be home to a superb collection of Late Victorian-Era structures. Many homes from the town’s early mining days remain as private residences, too. IDAHO SPRINGS RECREATION CENTER Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District’s Idaho Springs Recreation Center offers low-priced day-use passes to its pool and fitness center. The six-lane, 25-yard pool has a one-meter diving board, wading pool and hot tub. The fitness area has a full range of cardiovascular and weight lifting equipment and classes. 1130 Idaho St., Idaho Springs. 303-567-4822. clearcreekrecreation.com.

JULY 201

21 Bob Cook Mt Evans Memorial Hill Climb at Idaho Springs to Mount Evans. 6:45 a.m. $.

AUGUST 2018

11 Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathon at Idaho Springs. 8 a.m. $75

SEPTEMBER 2018

7 Flaming Foliage Relay at Idaho Springs.

14 Walkfest Retreat at Blackstone Rivers Ranch . $47-$647. 15 Clear Creek Watershed Festival at Courtney RileyCooper Park. Free. 10 a.m. 29 Dynamite Days Street Festival at Idaho Springs. Noon-9 p.m. Free.

WEST WINDS TAVERN LIVE MUSIC

1633 Miner St. •303-567-0982

INDIAN HOT SPRINGS RESORT The pool and baths at Indian Hot Springs are continually fed pure mineral water at 115 degrees. With an average temperature of 90-100 degrees, the pool—complete with flowering plants and live banana and palm trees —is a family favorite. The resort also features a spa and accommodations for overnight guests. 302 Soda Creek Road, Idaho Springs, 303-989-6666, indianhotsprings.com THE UNDERHILL MUSEUM A professor at Colorado School of the Mines, Dr. Underhill surveyed many of the mines and lots in and around the city. Visitors to his charming home can wander through the rooms and experience Victorian life in a mining town. 1416 Miner St. 303-567-4709. historicidahosprings.com. THE MOUNT EVANS SCENIC BYWAY Colorado’s Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America. The views are breathtaking, with alpine lakes, massive granite walls and stands of ancient bristlecone pine. The Idaho Springs Visitor Center serves as the starting point to the byway, which climbs over 7,000 feet and reaches an altitude of 14,130 feet in its 28-mile length. This drive offers visitors scenic views of the Continental Divide, mountain goat and bighorn sheep herds, wildflowers, and pine forests. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

IDAHO SPRINGS (cont.)

240

EXIT

Miner St

i ers Riv

Ave

Clear Cree

Colorado Blvd.

23rd

Colorado Blvd.

River

side D

Colora

Miner St

do Blv d.

Water St

240

Soda Creek Road

k Clear Cree

241

Wal l St Virgin ia St

Virginia St 17th Ave

14th Ave

Idaho St

t Wall S

Virginia Canyon Oh-My-God Road

16th Ave

Blvd.

15th Ave

Wall St

13th Ave

Colorado 12th Ave

Miner St

Virginia St 11th Ave

10th Ave

HERITAGE MUSEUM VISITOR CENTER & NATIONAL FOREST RANGER STATION The Heritage Visitor Center features local information and a free, informative museum of fascinating artifacts. Arapaho National Forest maintains a ranger station in the same location. 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs, 303-567-4382

Idaho Springs Central

IDAHO SPRINGS - EAST

his exit access the west end of Idaho Springs including gas, grocery, food, post office, ball fields, skate park and more.

BOUCK BROTHERS DISTILLERY Bouck Brothers Distilling makes its spirits in Idaho Springs from grain to glass. Stop in on Saturdays for whiskey flights, cocktails and guided tastings. 2731 Colorado Blvd. 303-567-2547. bouckbros.com

2420 Colo. Blvd. Idaho Springs, CO 80452 303-567-2903 Mon-Fri: 8:30-5 Sat: 9-noon 26

BALL PARK COMPLEX The Idaho Springs Ball Field Complex features two ball fields and restrooms. A non-motorized trail connects the complex to Idaho Springs. 101 Idaho Springs Road. 303-567-4822. clearcreekrecreation.com. SKATE PARK Located at the East end of Idaho Springs, is a small modular skate park with steal and concrete ramps and half pipe and portable toilet. 3334 Riverside Dr. Riverside Dr

Clear Creek

Colorado Blvd Miner St Edwards St

Gibson Ave

Distillery East Idaho Springs Businesses Gold Mill & Tunnel Idaho Springs Ball Park Complex Skateboard Park Visitor Center

HISTORIC ARGO MILL & TUNNEL TOURS Begun in 1893, the Argo Tunnel extends approximately five miles intersecting most major gold mines between Idaho Springs and Central City. The Argo Mill, built to process ore coming from those mines, dates from 1913 and is visible from Interstate 70. Tour both and pan for gold at the Argo Mill & Tunnel. Call or visit the website for operating hours. 2350 Riverside Dr., Idaho Springs. 303-567-2421. historicargotours.com

25th Ave

AT THIS EXIT

Riverside Dr

T 24

EXI

h Ida

s Ro

ing

pr oS

Idaho Springs East

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;˘ Summer/Fall 2018

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

243

CENTRAL CITy

CASINO PARKWAY

his exit accesses the Casino Parkway and town of Central City as well as a gas station, convenience store and trailhead.

USE EXIT 243 AT THE HIDDEN VALLEY EXIT TO ACCESS THE CENTRAL CITY CASINO PARKWAY In Central City - 9 miles

AT THIS EXIT Casino Gaming Central City Casino Parkway Game Check Station Trailhead Gold Mine Tour OHV Trails National Historic District

TRAILS Clear Creek Greenway:

Scott Lancaster Memorial Trail ●

HIDDEN VALLEY provides access to an

8.4 mile, four-lane highway with direct access to the historic mining town and gambling area of Central City. The Casino Parkway can be traveled in about 12 minutes. The exit also provides access to C.R. 314, which leads to Game Check Trailhead and the Scott Landcaster Memorial Trail connecting the Floyd Hill area to Exit 241 in Idaho Springs. A gold mine, located off the parkway 6.3 miles from the exit, offers tours year round. The well-preserved town also features tours of several historic sites, a history museum, summer opera festival and numerous special events on Main Street.

SCOTT LANDCASTER MEMORIAL TRAIL (near exit) This 5-mile trail is mostly flat and easy. It runs between the Idaho Springs Ball Fields at Exit 241 and Exit 244 where it connects to frontage roads. The Game Check Trailhead parking lot, under a mile west of Exit 243 on C.R. 314, is an easy place to pick up the trail. HIDEE GOLD MINE TOUR (6 miles) The Hidee Gold Mine lies in a beautiful, scenic canyon filled with wildlife including bighorn sheep, deer, bear, elk, fox, hawks and eagles. Learn geology, mineralogy and history while walking 700 feet underground in the well-lit, dry and safe mine. Tours include a stop at an authentic, five-footwide vertical gold vein where visitors can use a single jack hammer and chisel to chip a gold ore sample loose and keep. Tours are on the hour between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily. 1950 Hidee Mine Road. 720-548-0343. hideegoldmine.com. KOA HOLIDAY DENVER WEST (7 miles) This full-service RV park is located at 8,490 feet near Central City. It has pull-through sites, full hookups, free cable TV, a hot tub, free WiFi and Hunt Brothers Pizza and Wings delivered to campsites. Pets are allowed. 605 Lake Gulch Road, Central City, koa.com/campgrounds/denver-west Cle

Central City Ca

Cre

EVENTS JUNE 2018

2-9/10 71st Annual Gilpin Arts Juried Art Show at Washington Hall Gallery. Daily: 10-6. Free. 9 Central Jazz at Central City Main Street. 11 a.m. $35-$250 16 Madam Lou Bunch Day at Central City Main Street. Noon. Free. 30 Stills in the Hills at Central City Main Street. 1-6 p.m. $35-$60

JULY 201

7-8/11 Central City Opera Season at Central City Opera House. $. 21 Beat The Heat Wing Fest at Central City Main Street. 1-6 p.m. Free-$. 28 A Night of Good Fortune at Central City Main Street. Free.

AUGUST 2018

18 Gilpin Arts Members Art -9/28 Show at Washington Hall Gallery. Sat-Sun. Free. 25 Great Central City Beer Fest at Central City Main Street. 1-6 p.m. $40-$70 25 30th Annual Cemetery Crawl at Central City Odd Fellows Cemetery. 11 a.m. $12

SEPTEMBER 2018

14-16 Hot Rod Hill Climb at Central City Main Street. Free-$10.

sino Pkwy

OCTOBER 2018

EXIT 24

East Ida

To Idaho Springs

ho Spri

ngs Roa

12-13 Creepy Crawls at Central 19-20 City Main Street.

MILE HIGH ROOM AT GRAND Z CASINO LIVE MUSIC

Hidden Valley/Central City 30

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

321 Gregory St. • 303-582-0800 reservecasinohotel.com

243

CENTRAL CITy (cont.)

CENTRAL CITY HISTORIC TOURS (8.5 miles) Explore many of Central City’s most historic buildings with guided tours by the Gilpin County Historical Society. The Teller House, Opera House and Thomas House on Eureka Street near downtown are available for tours all year. The Gilpin History Museum, 228 E. First High St., and Coeur d’Alene Mine Shaft House, 110 Academy Hill, are open through Sept. 30. Museum displays include the “Mountain Submarine,” recreated Main Street, mining room, school room and other exhibits related to the county’s colorful history from the 1860s to the present. Tours of the shaft house allow visitors to see antique mining equipment, the inner workings of a mine shaft house, and panoramic views of Central City and Black Hawk. Tours are $6 per person, per building or $5 per person, per building if more than one building is toured. Children 12 and under are free. All tours begin at Washington Hall, 117 Eureka St. 303-582-5283. gilpinhistory.org HISTORIC CEMETERIES One mile west of Central City (up Eureka Street toward the Columbine Campground) lie several cemeteries with hundreds of ornate stone markers and intricate grill work, with headstones dating back to the 1860s. The Central City Cemetery, the Knights of Pythias Cemetery and the Catholic Cemetery are open to visitor to visit and wander among the headstones marking early-day Central City residents grave sites. Be respectful and remember that these are actual cemeteries and are still in use to this day. The Gilpin Historical Society hosts its popular Cemetery Crawl in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Aug. 25, at 11 a.m. gilpinhistory.org CENTRAL CITY OPERA HOUSE & FESTIVAL Built by the citizens of Central City in 1878, this National Historic Landmark, has hosted performances of the nation’s fifth-oldest opera company since 1932. As the second oldest summer opera company, Central City Opera’s summer festival attracts patrons from all over the country and abroad to enjoy intimate performances in its 550-seat theater. This summer, the theater hosts events—including main stage performances of The Magic Flute and Il trovatore—July 7-Aug. 11. Other venues and events are held throughout town. 120 Eureka St. 303-292-6700. centralcityopera.org GILPIN ARTS ASSOCIATION Gilpin County Arts Association Art Gallery in historic Washington Hall consists of five rustic rooms displaying 3,800 sq. ft. of art from over 100 artists throughout the Rocky Mountain region. It hosts two art shows and sales each year. Its annual Juried Show of all original art — including paintings, pottery, ceramics, photographs, sculpture, fabrics, jewelry, weavings and woodcrafts — is June 4-Aug. 25 and a Members Show is open on weekends, Aug. 29-to Oct. 1. The gallery also displays student art, cards and gifts priced from $5-$75. 117 Eureka St. 303-582-5952. gilpinarts.org

CENTRAL CITY CASINOS

n addition to its historical sites, Central City is home to six casinos where guests 21 and older can play slot machines, poker, craps and roulette up to 24 hours a day. The casinos, which range from small, family-owned establishments to large upscale casinos, also offer a wide variety of lodging, dining and entertainment options — including live music on weekends in the Mile High Room at the Grand Z Casino Hotel, food specials and 24-hour alcohol sales. Parking is easy on the streets or in free casino parking garages. Black Hawk, a mile further, is home to several more casinos and hotels. BLACK HAWK & CENTRAL CITY TRAMWAY The Black Hawk & Central City Tramway keeps you connected throughout Black Hawk and Central City. Buses operate continuously, seven days a week, mid-morning until early the following morning. CENTURY CASINO & HOTEL

102 Main St., Central City 303-582-5050 • Open 24 Hours cnty.com/central-city

DOSTAL ALLEY CASINO & BREWERY 116 Main St., Central City, CO 80427 303-582-1610 • Daily: 10am-2am dostalalley.com

EASY STREET CASINO

JOHNNY Z’S CASINO

FAMOUS BONANZA CASINO

GRAND Z CASINO HOTEL

120 Main St., Central City, 80427 303-582-5914 Sun-Thu: 8am-2am; Fri-Sat: 8am-3am www.easystreetcentralcity.com 107 Main St., Central City 303-582-5914 Sun-Thu: 8am-2am; Fri-Sat: 8am-3am famousbonanza.com

132 Lawrence St., Central City 303-582-5623 • Sun-Thu: 10am-3am Fri-Sat: 24 hours johnnyzscasino.com 321 Gregory St., Central City 303-582-0800 • Open 24 Hours grandzcasinohotel.com

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

244 Left Side Exit for Eastbound

U.S. HIGHWAY 6

his alternative route accesses numerus recreational options in Clear Creek Canyon Park and Centennial Cone Park.

U.S. HIGHWAY 6 winds through beautiful Clear Creek Canyon and offers a scenic

alternative to Interstate 70 between Golden and Idaho Springs. Passing through a narrow canyon with a series of tunnels, U.S. 6 offers dramatic scenery as it passes the trailheads of Clear Creek Canyon Park and Centennial Cone Park as well as a new section of the Peaks to Plains Trail. Heading west up the canyon on Hwy. 119 — the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway — takes travelers to the casinos of nearby Black Hawk and ultimately to Rocky Mountain National Park.

On Colo. 119 - 4 miles

Black Hawk - 10 miles

AT THIS EXIT Alternative Route to Golden Big Easy Trailhead Casino Gaming Centennial Cone Park Centennial Cone West Trailhead Clear Creek Canyon Park Mayhem Gulch Trailhead Oxbow Trailhead Prospecting Rock Climbing

TRAILS

Peaks to Plains Trail ●

CENTENNIAL CONE PARK Centennial Cone Park offers a near-backcountry experience, with a 12-mile trail loop that challenges stamina, offers sweeping views of Clear Creek and provides the opportunity to see elk and other wildlife over wide expanses. Centennial Cone West Trailhead, 2224 Douglas Mountain Dr., Golden and Centennial Cone North Trailhead, 3956 Camino Perdido, Golden, access trails. 303-271-5925, jeffco.us/open-space CLEAR CREEK CANYON PARK Clear Creek Canyon Park near the junction of U.S. 6 and Hwy. 119 (3 miles from Exit 244) offers unique recreation experiences among the steep canyon walls and Clear Creek. With the opening of a segment of the Peaks to Plains Trail, 3.75 miles of concrete and ADA accessible, bicycles are allowed in the canyon. The Mayhem Gulch, Tunnel 5 Oxbow and Clear Creek Canyon Big Easy trailheads offer parking, toilets and access to trails. On weekends, hike and horseback ride on odd-numbered dates; bike on even-numbered dates. 303-271-5925. jeffco.us/open-space/parks/clear-creek-canyon-park PROSPECTING Clear Creek Canyon Open Space Park provides almost 10 miles of access to gold bearing waterway for visitors. When the water is high in spring and early summer, prospecting access is limited. Recreational gold prospecting is allowed in Clear Creek only within Clear Creek Canyon Park, see posted signs for permissible areas along creek. Prospecting is prohibited in some areas at the Big Easy Trailhead. Digging into or destruction of stable shoreline, banks or existing vegetation is not permitted. To Prospecting activities are permitted To within the normal, disturbed stream channel. Keeping 44 one foot in the water is a 244 XIT 2 EXIT T I E reek 244 step in the right direction. EX C ar Prospectors must adhere Cle to all prospecting and Highway 6/ park regulations. jeffco.us/ Clear Creek Canyon open-space/parks/clearcreek-canyon-park ek Cre

Mayhem Gulch/ Juniper Loop Trail ■

OXBOW TRAILHEAD The Oxbow Trailhead area, located near Tunnel No. 5 on U.S. 6 in Clear Creek County, provides an important link for the Clear Creek Greenway between Clear Creek County and neighboring Jefferson County. At the same time, the Oxbow site is a destination unto itself; a site of breathtaking beauty, scenic wildlife, rich cultural history, and highly sought after recreation amenities like the Cat Slab climbing wall.

ar Cle

Centennial Cone/ Travois Trail ■

BLACK HAWK Black Hawk, with its 16 casinos, numerous hotels, soothing spas and restaurants ranging from authentic steak houses to buffets, is a small city that has become a major regional gaming destination. The town is located north on Hwy. 119 about 10 miles from Exit 244. visitblackhawk.org

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

U.S. HIGHWAY 6 244 ROCK CLIMBING Clear Creek Canyon has long since been a go-to after work and weekend destination crag for the Denver and Boulder climbing communities. A recent explosion of route development is making the area even more popular. With more than 1,000 total climbs spanning all grades, six climbing areas (Canal Zone, Little Eiger, Highwire Crag, Highlander Crag, Wall of the Nineties, & Anarchy Wall), almost 30 new crags and hundreds of new routes, Clear Creek Canyon is considered by many to be among the best sport climbing areas on the Front Range and is known for its accessible sport climbs. There are over a dozen classic 5.14s, but more moderate routes, from 5.7 and up, have been developed as well. As a whole, it has a variety of ratings with rock varying from gneiss and schist to sandy granite. Oxbow Trailhead/Tunnel 5 and Tunnel 6 offer the closest climbing areas to Interstate 70, but popular routes can be found from Clear Creek County to Golden. Beginners should explore “High Wire Crag,”“Catslab,”“Little Eiger,”“Red Slab” and “The Canal Zone” while excellent difficult routes include “Primo Wall,”“Wall of the Nineties,”“Anarchy Wall,”“The River Wall” and “New River” formation. Colfax Rock Climbing Wall at Mayhem Gulch is another popular area. To explore options, consult Rock Climbing Clear Creek Canyon, 2nd Edition (2017) by Kevin Capps, Denver Climbing Guide (2017) by Tod Anderson and Thomas Hanson or Clear Creek Canyon Rock Climbs (2008) by Darren Mabe. Visit www.mountainproject.com/area/105744243/clear-creek-canyon for online descriptions of routes. PEAK TO PLAINS TRAIL This trail that straddles the border of Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties provides a conduit for non-motorized transport through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon. With only 4 miles of an eventual 65 miles open, the award-winning Peaks to Plains Trail attracts users daily. While it makes for an easy hike or bike ride, it also provides river access for boating and fishing.

PET RESOURCES

hen recreating with your pet, remember they must be on a leash within the city limits of all Clear Creek County towns. In the Arapaho National Forest, pets must be on a leash at all times in wilderness and developed recreation areas. Many trails in the area also specifically require dogs to be on a leash, or ban them all together, so be sure to confirm rules before making plans with your pet. Be sure your pet is prepared if you plan to take it into the backcountry. Hiking above treeline in rocks can easily harm a dog’s feet. They are also susceptible to dehydration and altitude issues so be aware and be sure you carry plenty of water for yourself and your dog. It is a good idea to start with shorter hikes to toughen paw pads and develop stamina. It is also best to keep your pet leashed when required and whenever wildlife or other hikers may be encountered. If camping, plan ahead and pack bedding, towels and suplies to pack out waste in addition to plenty of food and water. Consider an LED light to keep track of your pet at night. If you’re not looking for a trail, there are dog-specific parks in Georgetown, Exit 228, and Empire, Exit 232. Be sure to use proper dog park etiquette and clean up after your dog. Georgetown has a fully-fenced dog park at Werlin Park, 1014 Taos St. and Minton Park in Empire, located south of U.S. 40 on S. Main Street, also features a large, fenced dog park and other amenities. Charlie’s Place Animal Shelter, 500 W. Dumont Road in Dumont, provides nourishment and a safe environment for abandoned, homeless, stray and impounded dogs and cats. It offers dog and cat adoptions, microchipping, spay/neuter coupons and monthly lowcost vaccination clinics. Call 303-679-2477 if you loose a pet in the county. Visit www.charliesplaceshelter.org to learn more.

If in need of pet food or other pet supplies while visiting Clear Creek County, stop by Family Dollar, 1560 Argentine St. in Georgetown, Exit 228, Safeway, 2425 Miner St. in Idaho Springs, Exit 241; Mountain Tool & Feed, 2195 East Idaho Springs Road at Hidden Valley, Exit 243; or Chow Down, 1260 Bergen Pkwy, and Dogma Pet Supply & Dog Wash, 29017 Hotel Way, on the Evergreen Pkwy., Exits 251/252. Watch for a new store selling pet supplies and more to open in downtown Georgetown this summer. Should a trip to a veterinary clinic become necessary, there are a couple of options. Clear Creek Veterinary Clinic, 1209 Miner St. in Idaho Springs is at Exit 240. Visit www.ccvetc.com or call 303-567-2895 for information. At Beaver Brook, Exit 247/248, Beaver Brook Pet Center Animal Hospital, Boarding Kennel & Grooming Salon, 77 Elmgreen Lane, provides veterinary services. Call 303-670-0838 or visit www.beaverbrookpetcenter.com to learn more. Many more emergency options exist in Golden and Denver metro area. Other pet resources include Evergreen Cat Lodge, 32163 Soda Creek Dr., evergreencatlodge.com and Say Carrots Dog Vacay, 173 Aspen Dr., dogvacay.com, near Exits 251/252. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

AT THIS EXIT Antique Store Clear Creek H.S. Clear Creek County Open Space

TRAILS Beaver Brook Watershed Open Space ● Saddleback Mountain Trail ■ Floyd Hill Open Space Trail ■

his eastbound-only exit is the access to Floyd Hill and Beaver Brook residential areas as well as county open space trails.

FLOYD HILL and Beaver Brook are residential areas near the eastern county line. Use Exit 247 or Exit 248 depending on which direction you are going on Interstate 70. The exits access Clear Creek County open space areas at Floyd Hill and Beaver Brook Watershed as well as an alternative route to the Evergreen Parkway and Bergen Park at Exit 248. The Clear Creek County High School, a permanent food truck café and antique store are at Exit 247. SADDLEBACK MOUNTAIN TRAIL To U.S. 6 Saddleback Mountain is a “local gem” with spectacular views located in the Beaver Brook EXIT To Watershed Open Space. South of Interstate 70, 247 Beaver Brook turn right on Hyland Road and follow signs to Saddleback Mountain. FLOYD HILL OPEN SPACE TRAIL Hylan d Dr This new 1.3 mile loop trail connects the I-70 corBea ridor to Clear Creek Canyon to access both Clear ver Bro ok Creek County Open Space and Jefferson County Floyd Hill Open Space. 37899 U.S. 40. co.clear-creek.co.us tead Road

Eastbound Only!

FLOYD HILL

Home s

247

on ny

248 Westbound Only!

AT THIS EXIT Antique Store Clear Creek H.S. Clear Creek County Open Space

TRAILS Beaver Brook Watershed Open Space ● Saddleback Mountain Trail ■ Floyd Hill Open Space Trail ■ 36

BEAVER BROOK

his westbound-only exit is the access to Floyd Hill and Beaver Brook residential areas as well as county open space trails.

BEAVER BROOK and Floyd Hill are residential areas near the eastern county line.

Use Exit 247 or Exit 248 depending on which direction you are going on Interstate 70. The exits access Clear Creek County open space areas at Beaver Brook Watershed and Floyd Hill. County Road 65 is an alternative route to the Evergreen Parkway/Lariat Loop Scenic Byway at Exit 248. It also is a quick way to reach scenic Squaw Pass Road/Hwy. 103 which circles back to Mountain Evans and Idaho Springs. BEAVER BROOK WATERSHED OPEN SPACE Located 3 miles west of Bergen Park on Squaw Passs Road/Hwy. 103 and south of Exit 248 via C.R. 65, the Beaver Brook Watershed is part of a 20-mile wildlife corridor between Elk Meadow in Jefferson County and Mount Evans. The open space is To one of the last remaining undeveloped sub- Floyd Hill alpine forests in the Front Range. Its wild flower-filled meadows, bubbling streams EXIT 248 bounded by lush vegetation, forested slopes, abundant wildlife, and dramatic rock features are beloved by many people. Beaver Brook Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

251 Eastbound Only!

EL RANCHO

his exit is the access for the Evergreen Parkway and Lariat Loop Scenic Byway for east-bound interstate traffic.

USE EL RANCHO EXIT 251 TO ACCESS THE EVERGREEN PARKWAY WHEN HEADING EASTBOUND

AT THIS EXIT Elk Meadow Park Golf Course

EL RANCHO got its start in 1947, when the Jahnke family built a log-cabin style restaurant in the foothills west of Denver. In 1953, it was purchased by a couple, and a banquet business, gift shop and station for the U.S. Post Office were added. Their daughter and son-in-law took over in 1958 and when Interstate 70 was being built in the mid-1960s, the highway department was convinced to name the exit to Evergreen “El Rancho.” It is said to have the most photographed view of the Continental Divide in America. Today, it is a craft brewery and restaurant.

HUMPHREY HISTORY PARK & MUSEUM Guided tours of a historic house and selfguided tours of Kinnikinnick Ranch are offered year round. Visit the antique store, TRAILS art gallery, hike a trail, take a class or a tour Bergen Peak Trail ◆ Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. until Labor Day. Fundraisers and special events Painter’s Pause/ are offered throughout summer. 620 Soda Founders Trail ● Creek Road. 303-674-5429. hmpm.org

Humphrey History Park & Museum

252 Westbound Only!

EXIT

251

El Rancho/ Evergreen Parkway

To Evergreen Parkway

EVERGREEN PkWy

his westbound-only exit with shopping and dining is the primary access to Evergreen Parkway and Scenic Byway.

EVERGREEN PARKWAY, part of the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, is a four- to six-lane roadway connecting Interstate 70 with Squaw Pass Road/Hwy. 103, Bergen Park and the town of Evergreen. It ultimately reaches Morrison and C-470 in 18 miles.

Elk Meadow Park

CENTER FOR THE ARTS EVERGREEN The Art Center hosts 12 annual art exhibitions showcasing national mountain comTRAILS munity artists. It is open, free of charge, Bergen Peak Trail ◆ Monday-Saturday. The 39th Summerfest, July 21-22, is a family-friendly festival of art, Painter’s Pause/ crafts, music and beer. 31880 Rocky Village Founders Trail ● Road. 303-674-0056. evergreenarts.org

Humphrey History Park & Museum

Evergreen Parkway

Pkw ree n

To Evergreen

Eve rg

To El Rancho

Golf Course

Rainbow Hill Ro

AT THIS EXIT

LARIAT LOOP SCENIC BYWAY This 40-mile route connecting Golden, Morrison, and Evergreen passes dozens of open space parks, museums, and other heritage sites in foothills, canyons, and meadows. www.lariatloop.org

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

Suede

Gulch

Road

CAMPING

ith a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest System lands. Restrictions protect resources, minimize road damage, and reduce conflicts between landowners and visitors. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for another 14 days. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period. Some areas may require the use of designated campsites. The Clear Creek Ranger District has a mix of private land and forest land. It is your responsibility to know if you are on private or public land. Dispersed camping areas include Beartracks Lake Trail, Beaver Meadows Trail, Bill Moore Lake/Empire Loop, Captain Mountain Trail, Chicago Lakes Trail, Devil’s Canyon, Fall River Reservoir, Kingston Peak, Loch Lomond, Saxon Mountain, Argentine Central Railroad/ Waldorf Road and Yankee Hill. Be aware, new regulations are in effect along Guanella Pass limiting camping to designated sites only. Watch for signs posted along the scenic byway for information. A good resource for finding dispersed camping that’s easily accessible by road is to check the Motor Vehicle Use Map. The map is available for free online at www. fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/maps, through the Avenza app on your smart phone, or at the Idaho Springs Visitors Center at 2060 Miner St. in Idaho Springs. It is open seven days a week. Campground camping is available in Clear Creek County’s developed campgrounds. All are accessed from the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, Hwy. 103 and Central City Casino Parkway. Individual operating seasons vary, however season dates range from mid-May through mid-October. Campfires are allowed in the fire ring provided, dead and down wood may be gathered from the forest if available. Wood may also be purchased from the hosts. Campgrounds include: • Clear Lake: 10,000’; 8 sites; 15-foot spur; no reservations; $17; closes 9/3 • Columbine: 9,200’; 46 sites; 20-foot spur; reservations, $19; closes 9/23 • Echo Lake: 10,600’; 17 sites; 20-foot spur; reservations, $19; closes 9/3 • Guanella Pass: 10,900’; 17 sites; 35-foor spur; reservations, $19; closes 9/3 • West Chicago Creek: 9,600’; 15 sites; 30-foot spur; reservations, $18; closes 9/23 Campground reservations can be made for all campgrounds, except Clear Lake, through the National Recreation Reservation Service at 877-444-6777 or online at www.recreation.gov. Other options nearby include an RV park on Hwy. 103 south of Idaho Springs and a KOA on the Central City Casino Parkway. COLORADO OUTDOOR RECREATION SEARCH AND RESCUE CARD Colorado residents and visitors are well served by dedicated volunteer search and rescue teams. By purchasing a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) card you are contributing to the Search and Rescue Fund, which reimburses teams for costs incurred in search and rescues across the state, and provide funding for the purchase of search and rescue related equipment. The CORSAR card is available for $3 for a one-year card and $12 for five-year card. Call 303679-2376 or visit dola.colorado.gov/sar to purchase a CORSAR card. BE BEAR AWARE With an increase in bear activity, it is forest visitors’ responsibility to know how to properly hike and camp in bear country. Reference Colorado Parks and Wildlife bear information at wildlife.state.co.us. If you want to avoid problems for yourself and the bears, make sure there’s nothing to attract bears to your camp or car. Report non-emergency bear encounters to 303-291-7227.

CARE FOR COLORADO PRINCIPLES Know Before You Go • Learn about and respect the spaces we all own and share. • Find your way to less-visited and offpeak destinations. • Bring reusable water bottles to limit waste and stay hydrated. Stick To Trails • Let natural areas stay natural and camp at least 200 feet from water. • Don’t take shortcuts. Trash the Trash • Pack it in, pack it out. Or pick it up to leave a place better than you found it. • Wash yourself, dog and dishes with biodegradable soap 200 feet from water. Leave It As You Find It • Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them. • Don’t build structures or campsites on public land. • Treat all living things with respect. Be Careful With Fire • Be aware of seasonal restrictions • Keep campfires small and manageable. • When putting out a fire, water it until the embers can be handled. • Never let a fire burn unattended. • Use care when smoking and do not litter. Keep Wildlife Wild • Don’t approach or feed wildlife. • Keep pets leashed on dog-friendly trails, and pack out their waste to a trashcan. Share Our Trails & Parks • Try out lesser-known paths and sites. • Silence cell phones and speak softly. • Be considerate when passing others and yield to the uphill hiker and biker. • Listen to nature and keep voices and music soft. Learn more at LNT.org

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

LODGING

✔

MINI-FRIDGE

✔

MICROWAVE

PETS

✔

WIFI

515 Woodward St. • historicwindsorhotel.com • 303-569-2161

HOT TUB

BED & BREAKFASTS Silver Plume | Exit 226 Historic Windsor Hotel

BREAKFAST

All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

✔

Georgetown | Exit 228

Horstmann House Bed & Breakfast

✔

Rose Street Bed & Breakfast

✔

Hooper Homestead Bed & Breakfast

✔

Nicki Lee Mansion Bed & Breakfast

✔

Skye Cottage Bed & Breakfast

✔

400 9th St. • horstmannhousebb.com • 303-569-2202

200 Rose St. • www.rosestreetbnb.com • 303-578-7844

✔

St. Mary’s Glacier/Alice | Exit 238 (+12 miles)

Silver Lake Lodge Bed & Breakfast 336 Crest Dr. • thesilverlakelodge.com • 303-567-9299

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Miner’s Pick Bed & Breakfast

1639 Colorado Blvd. • theminerspick.com • 303-567-4870

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles) 210 Hooper St. • 303-809-5679 • www.hooperhomestead.com

201 W 1st High St. • 618-792-8701 • nickileemansioncentralcity.com 215 W 1st High St. • 303-331-8772 • skyecottagebedbreakfast.us

El Rancho/Evergreen Parkway | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles)

Elk Run Bed & Breakfast

✔

Highland Haven Creekside Inn

✔

Mountain Bounty Bed & Breakfast

✔

The Cabins at County Road

✔

1307 Witter Gulch • elkrunbedandbreakfast.com • 303-482-2605 4395 Independence Trail • highlandhaven.com • 303-674-3577 30500 U.S. 40 • 720-938-2413 • mountainbountybed

26490 Hwy. 74 • thecabinsatcountryroad.com • 303-674-1901

HOTELS & MOTELS Georgetown | Exit 228 America’s Best Value Inn

1600 Argentine St. • redlion.com/georgetown • 303-569-3211

Georgetown Mountain Inn

1100 Rose St. • georgetownmountaininn.com • 303-569-3201

✔ ✔

Hotel Chateau Chamonix

1414 Argentine St. • hotelchateauchamonix.com • 303-569-1109

✔

Lawson | Exits 233 & 234

Lawson Adventure Park Cabins

3440 Alvarado Road • lawsonadventurepark.com • 855-372-7238 40

✔

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

✔

Bearadice Motel

✔

Columbine Inn

✔

H & H Motor Lodge

✔

Idaho Springs Motel

✔

2622 Colorado Blvd. • argoinnandsuites.com • 303-567-4473

✔

MINI-FRIDGE

PETS

✔

2920 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2691

Argo Inn & Suites

WIFI

HOT TUB

HOTELS & MOTELS Idaho Springs | Exits 240 & 241 6 & 40 Motel

BREAKFAST

All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

MICROWAVE

LODGING

2725 Colorado Blvd. • bearadisemotel.com • 303-567-4177 2545 Colorado Blvd. • columbineinn.net • 303-567-0948

2445 Colorado Blvd. • hhlodge.tripod.com • 303-567-2838 2631 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2242

Indian Hot Springs

✔

302 Soda Creek Road • indianhotsprings.com • 303-989-6666

J C Suites

✔ ✔

2729 Colorado Blvd. • jcsuites.com • 303-567-9263

✔

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Century Casino Hotel

✔

Grand Z Casino Hotel

✔

102 Main St. • 303-582-5050 • cnty.com/central-city 321 Gregory St. • 303-582-0800 • grandzcasinohotel.com

Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252

Comfort Suites Golden West

✔

Alpen Way Chalet

✔

Bears Inn

✔

Colorado Bear Creek Cabins

✔

29300 U.S. 40, Evergreen. • 303-526-2000

✔

Evergreen | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles) 4980 C.R. 73 • alpenwaychalet.com • 303-674-7467 27425 Spruce Lane • bearsinn.com • 303-670-1205 27400 Hwy. 74 • coloradobearcreekcabins.com • 303-674-3442

RV PARKs

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Cottonwood RV Campground

1485 Hwy. 103 • cottonwoodrvcolorado.com • 303-567-2617

Central City | Exit 243 (+7 miles)

KOA Denver West/Central City

605 Lake Gulch Road • koa.com/campgrounds/denver-west • 303-582-3043

✔

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

FOOD & DRINK All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

BARS, TAVERNS & SALOONS Silver Plume | Exit 226 The Bread Bar

1010 Main St. • 720-722-7323 • www.breadbarsp.com • Fri: 4-10, Sat: 2-10, Sun: Noon-6

Georgetown | Exit 228

Mother’s Saloon (see ad page 13) 601 14th St. • 303-569-2080 • Daily: 11-Midnight Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Vintage Moose Tavern (see ad page 45) 123 16th Ave. • 303-567-2375 • Daily: 11-1

West Winds Tavern 1633 Miner St. • 303-567-0982

Highway 6 | Exit 244

Two Bears Tap & Grill

33295 U.S. Hwy. 6 • 303-567-2227 • Daily: 11-8

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Charlie’s Bar

118 Main St. • Daily: 11-2

Gold Coin Saloon

120 Main St. • 303-582-5914 • Daily: 8-2

Evergreen Parkway | Exits 251 & 252

The Woodcellar

1552 Bergen Pkwy. • www.thewoodcellar.net • 303-670-8448 • Mon-Thu: 11-11; Fri: 11-2; Sat: 9-2; Sun: 9-9

BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES Georgetown | Exit 228 Guanella Pass Brewing Company

501 Rose St. • 303-569-5167 • guanellapass.com • Daily: 11-9

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Tommyknocker Brewery Restaurant & Pub

1401 Miner St. • tommyknocker.com • 303-567-2688 • Mon-Thu: 11-9; Fri-Sun: 11-10

Westbound & Down Brewing Company

1617 Miner St. • westboundanddown.com • 720-502-3121 • Daily: 11-10

Idaho Springs | Exit 241

Bouck Brothers Distilling

2731 Colorado Blvd. • bouckbros.com • 303-567-2547 • Thu-Mon: Noon-7

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Dostal Alley Brewpub & Casino

116 Main St. • dostalalley.com • 303-582-1610 • Daily: 10-2

Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252

El Rancho Brewing

29260 U.S. 40 • elranchobrewing.com • 303-670-2739 • Sun-Thurs 11-9; Fri-Sat 11-10

Evergreen | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles)

Evergreen Brewery and Tap House

2962 Evergreen Pkwy. • www.evergreenbrewery.com • 303-736-8419 • Mon-Thur: Noon-10; Fri-Sat 11-11; Sun 11-9

Lariat Lodge Brewing Company

27618 Fireweed Dr. • lariatlodgebrewing.com • 303-674-1842 • Daily 11-10 44

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

FOOD & DRINK All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

CANDY, PASTRIES & ICE CREAM Georgetown | Exit 228 Cake

710 6th St. • georgetowncake.com • 303-569-5043 • Wed-Sun: 10-5; Closed Mon-Tue

End of the Line Ice Cream Fountain 503 6th St. • georgetownloopgifts.com • 303-563-2058

Georgetown Valley Candy Company

500 6th St. • shopgvcc.com • 303-569-2778 • Sun-Thu: 10-5; Fri-Sat: 10-6

Empire | Exit 232

Empire Dairy King (see ad page 17) 181 Park Ave. • 303-569-3103 • Mon-Wed: 11-7; Fri-Sun: 11-8; Closed Thu Lewis Sweet Shop

208 E. Park Ave. • lewissweetshop-empire.com • 303-569-2379 • Wed-Thu: 10:30-6; Fri-Sun: 10:30-6:30

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Edelweiss Pastry Shop (see ad page 27) 1520 Miner St. • Wed-Mon: 7:30-2; Closed Tue Georgetown Valley Candy Company 1501 Miner St. • shopgvcc.com • 720-242-9524 • Daily: 11-9

Miner Decadence Chocolates

1536 Miner St. • 303-567-1704 • Wed-Mon: 10:30-5:30

Evergreen Parkway | Exits 251 & 252

HearthFire Books & Treats

1254 Bergen Pkwy. • hearthfirebooksandtreats.com • 303-670-4549 • Mon-Fri 8:30-8; Sat-Sun 10-8

Evergreen | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles)

Alpine Pastries Bakery

4602 Plettner Lane • www.alpinepastries.com • 303-674-2120 • Tue-Sat 8-4:30; Sun 8-3

COFFEE SHOPS & TEA ROOMS Silver Plume | Exit 228 Plume Coﬀee Bar

855 Main St. • plumecoffeebar.com • 917-902-3684 • Sat-Sun: 9-3

Georgetown | Exit 228

Dusty Rose Tea Room

614 Rose St. • dustyrosetearoom.com • 303-569-3100 • Thu-Sun: 11-5

Kaﬀehuset Coﬀee House 612 6th St. • 303-569-5084 • Daily: 9-5

Empire | Exit 232

Mountain Xpress Coﬀee Company (see ad page 17)

420 E. Park Ave. • mountainxpresscoffeeco.business.site • 303-569-5009 • Wed-Sun: 7-6

Downieville/Dumont | Exit 234

Starbucks

308 C.R. 308 • starbucks.com •303-567-4530 • Daily: 6-8

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Starbucks

2900 Colorado Blvd. • starbucks.com • 303-567-2578 • Daily: 6-9

The Frothy Cup

1510 Miner St. • thefrothycup.com • 303-567-2622 • Mon-Thu: 7-5; Fri-Sun: 7-7 46

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

FOOD & DRINK All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

COFFEE SHOPS & TEA ROOMS (cont.) Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252 HearthFire Books & Treats

1254 Bergen Pkwy. • hearthfirebooksandtreats.com • 303-670-4549 • Mon-Fri 8:30-8; Sat-Sun 10-8

Starbucks

29057 Hotel Way • starbucks.com • 303-526-9439 • Daily: 5-8

Starbucks

1173 Bergen Pkwy. (inside King Soopers) • starbucks.com • 877-421-9062 • Daily: 6-8

The Bagelry

1242 Bergen Pkwy. • thebagelry.com • 303-674-1413 • Daily: 6-4

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Retro Deli/Starbucks

102 Main St. • www.cnty.com/central-city • 303-582 -5050 • Sun-Thur 10:30-1:30; Fri-Sat 10:30-3

Z Café/Starbucks

132 Lawrence St. • johnnyzscasino.com • 303-582-5623 • Daily: 8-2

Z Café/Starbucks @ Grand Z Casino

COST

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

1400 Argentine St. • 303-569-5053 • Daily: 7-3

American

✔

Alpine Restaurant

Am/Pizza $$

RESTAURANTS Georgetown | Exit 228 A Whistle Stop Cafe

1106 Rose St. • alpinerestaurantgeorgetown.com • 303-569-0200

No ✔

Full

Blue Sky Cafe

1510 Argentine St. • 303-719-0317

Cafe

✔

Cake

Cafe

✔

710 6th St. • georgetowncake.com • 303-569-5043

Cooper’s on the Creek (see ad page 49)

1500 Argentine St. • coopersonthecreek.com • 303-569-5088

American $$

Georgetown Market

Grab-n-Go $

1204 Argentine St. • 303-569-2464

✔

Full

✔

Lil’ Annie’s Café

Cafe

Lucha Cantina

Mexican

✔

Full

Grill

✔

Full

Cafe/Pizza

✔

✔ B&W

Asian

✔

Full

Sandwich

✔

507 Rose St. • 303-569-5143 606 6th St. • luchacantina.com • 303-569-2300

Mothers Saloon (see ad page 13) 601 14th St. • 303-569-2080

Mountainbuzz Cafe & Pizzeria

1200 Argentine St. • mountainbuzzcafe.com • 303-569-2020

Pho Bay III

1025 Rose St. • thephobay.com • 303-569-2126

Subway

1502 Argentine St. • subway.com • 303-569-0140 48

✔

BEER/SPIRITS

CUISINE

$=under $10 | $$=$11-30 | $$$=$30+

DINNER

321 Gregory St. • reservecasinohotel.com • 303-582-0800 • Daily: 8-2

✔

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County â&#x20AC;¢ Summer/Fall 2018

FOOD & DRINK CUISINE

COST

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

BEER/SPIRITS

All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

Grill

✔

American $$

✔

✔ Full

✔

$=under $10 | $$=$11-30 | $$$=$30+

RESTAURANTS (cont.) Georgetown | Exit 228 (cont.) Roundabout Burgers & Dogs 1416 Argentine St. • 303-569-2559

The Happy Cooker (see ad page 15)

412 6th St. • happycookerrestaurant.com • 303-569-3166

Troia’s Cafe & Marketplace

Italian

Empire Dairy King (see ad page 17) 181 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-3103

Grill

Jenny’s Pizza Empire 4 Park Ave. • 720-579-7190

Pizza

✔

Lewis Sweet Shop

Grill

✔

511 Rose St. • troiasrestaurantgeorgetown.com • 303-569-5014

Empire | Exit 232

208 E. Park Ave. • lewissweetshop-empire.com • 303-569-2379

✔

Downieville/Dumont | Exit 234

Downieville Fuel/Roady’s Truck Stop 1039 County Road 308 • roadys.com • 303-567-4730

Grab-n-Go $

✔

Subway

1039 County Road 308 • subway.com • 303-567-4213

Sandwich

✔

Taco Bell

Fast Food

✔

Mexican

✔

✔ Full

Pizza

✔

✔ Full

Buﬀalo Restaurant & Bar

1617 Miner St. •buffalorestaurant.com • 720-502-3121

American $$

✔

✔ Full

Carl’s Jr. / Green Burrito

2901 Colorado Blvd. •carlsjr.com • 303-567-2255

Fast Food

✔

Echo Lake Lodge Restaurant

American $$

✔

✔ Full

$/$$

✔

✔ Full

Middle East $/$$

✔

1073 County Road 308 • tacobell.com • 303-567-2175

Idaho Springs | Exit 240 & 241

Azteca Mexican Restaurant

1628 Miner St. •restaurantazteca.com • 303-567-2933

Beau Jo’s Pizza

1517 Miner St. •beaujos.com • 303-567-4376

13264 Hwy. 103 • echolakelodgeco.com • 303-567-2138

Eric’s Asian Cafe

2700 Colorado Blvd. • ericsasiancafe.com • 303-567-1166

Gyro X Mediterranean Deli 1641 Miner St. • 303-567-4976

Hilldaddy’s Wildfire Restaurant

Am/Mex $/$$ ✔

✔

✔ Full

Main Street Restaurant

1518 Miner St. •mainstrestaurant.com • 303-567-2788

American $$

✔

Full

Marion’s of the Rockies 2805 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2925

American

✔

Full

McDonalds

Fast Food

✔

2910 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2775

2911 Colorado Blvd. •mcdonalds.com • 303-567-1410 50

Asian

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

✔

FOOD & DRINK All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

RESTAURANTS (cont.) MTN Prime

1600 Miner St. • mtnprime.com • 720-428-8515

Steakhouse $$

Oink Food Truck (see ad page 49)

Am/Mex

2745 Colorado Blvd. • piccispizzeria.com • 303-567-0345

Pizza

Edelweiss Pastry Shop (see ad page 27)

Bakery

Pick Axe Pizza

Pizza

Safeway (Deli)

2425 Miner St. •safeway.com • 303-567-4471

Deli

Smokin’ Yards BBQ

BBQ

Subway

2900 Colorado Blvd. • subway.com • 303-567-2429

Sandwich

Sugar Plum Restaurant 1845 Miner St. • 303-567-4470

American $$

Sunshine Express of Colorado Cafe 1856 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-9100

American $

Tommyknocker Brewery Restaurant

American $$

101 Colorado Blvd. • 303-880-5354

Picci’s Pizzeria & Bakery

1520 Miner St. • Wed-Mon: 7:30-2; Closed Tue 1637 Miner St. • 303-567-2148

2736 Colorado Blvd. •smokinyards.com • 303-567-9273

1401 Miner St. • tommyknocker.com • 303-567-2688

✔

✔ Full

✔

✔ ✔

✔

No No

✔ ✔

✔

3.2

✔

✔ B&W

✔

✔ B&W

✔ ✔

✔

Full

✔

Full

✔

✔ B&W

✔

✔ Full

Two Bears Tap & Grill 33295 U.S. Hwy. 6 • 303-567-2227

Grill

Two Brothers Deli (see ad page 25) 1424 Miner St. • twobrothersdeli.com • 303-567-2439

Deli

West Winds Tavern

Grill

American

✔

El Rancho Brewing Restaurant

American $$

✔

Full

El Senor Sol Mexican Restaurant

Mexican

✔

Full

Illegal Burger

29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-1300 • illegalburger.com

American

✔

McDonalds

Fast Food

✔

QDOBA Mexican Eats

Mexican

✔

Deli

✔

Sandwich

✔

1633 Miner St. • 303-567-0982

✔

Floyd Hill | Exit 247 & 248

Wanderlust Market Food Truck 4 Hyland Dr. • wanderlustmkt.org • 720-460-8690

Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252 29260 U.S. 40 • 303-670-2739 • elranchobrewing.com 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-7255

902 Swede Gulch Road • 303-526-5810 • www.mcdonalds.com 29057 Hotel Way • 303-526-4333 • www.qdoba.com

Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli 908 Nob Hill Road • 303-526-0374

Subway

952 Swede Gulch Road • subway.com • 303-526-1751

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

✔

No 51

SHOPPING All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

Silver Plume | Exit 226

GEORGETOWN ROCK SHOP 501 6th St. • 303-569-2750 GEORGETOWN LOOP GIFT SHOP Daily: 9-6:30 825 Railroad Ave. • 303-569-2058 GEORGETOWN WINE & SPIRITS georgetownloopgifts.com 1406 Argentine St. • 303-569-3138 THE GREEN SOLUTION OUTLET Sun: 10-6; Mon-Thur: 10-8; Fri-Sat: 10-9 645 Water St. • 720-689-2346 GEORGETOWN VALLEY Daily: 9-8 CANDY COMPANY www.tgscolorado.com 500 6th St. • 303-569-2778 Georgetown | Exit 228 Daily: 10-6 shopgvcc.com ASPEN CREEK GIFTS 509 6th St. • 303-569-2610

THE BELGIAN RABBIT 614 Taos St. • 720-608-0609 Fri-Mon: 10-5 theflippingflea.com BLACK DIAMOND SKI & CYCLES 1540 Argentine St. • 303-569-2283 Mon-Fri: 8-5; Sat-Sun: 7:30-5 blackdiamondskirentals.com BUCKSKIN TRADING COMPANY 506 6th St. • 303-569-2050 Mon-Sat: 10-5, Sun: 11-5 buckskintradingcompany.com CLEAR CREEK GLASS & GIFTS 610 7th St. • 970-389-6855 COLORADO MOUNTAIN ART 406 6th St. • 303-569-2787 Daily: 10-5 coloradomountainartgallery.com END OF THE LINE COLORADO WEAR 503 6th St. • 303-642-7779 georgetownloopgifts.com FAMILY DOLLAR 1560 Argentine St. • 303-569-1032 Daily: 8-9 • familydollar.com GEORGETOWN GALLERY OF FINE ART 612 6th St. #B • 303-569-2218 georgetowngalleryco.com GEORGETOWN JERKY & EMPORIUM 509 B Rose St. • 405-919-0052 Daily: 10-6 • georgetownjerky.com

GRIZZLY CREEK GALLERY, INC. 512 6th St. • 303-569-0433 Daily: 10-5 www.grizzlycreekgallery.com KNEISEL & ANDERSON GROCERY STORE 511 6th St. • 303-569-2650 Sun: 11:30-5:30; Mon-Sat: 9:30-6 OPHELIA’S ANTIQUES 606 6th St. • 303-569-2336 Daily: 11-5 RAILROAD ART BY SCOTTY 509 6th St. • 303-569-9969 Thur-Mon: 10-4:30

THE QUILTED PURL 707 Taos St. • 303-569-1115 Mon, Wed & Fri-Sat: 10-5; Tue, Thur & Sun: noon-5 thequiltedpurl.com

Empire | Exit 232 COLORADO COUNTRY GENERAL STORE 6 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-2546 Thu: 11-7, Fri-Mon: 7-7 Tues: 7-noon GLENBROOK GALLERY 125 West Park Ave. • 303-569-3000 Daily: 9-5 (or by appointment) coloradocreations.net J.R. CLOCKMAKER 42 E. Park Ave. • 303-919-6182 Wed-Fri: 10-5; Sat: 10-2; Closed Sun-Tue jrclockmaker.com SERENE WELLNESS 13 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-2011 Daily: 8-8:55 serene-wellness.com VALERO EMPIRE LIQUOR STORE 83 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-5034 Daily: 6:30-8 valero.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MINIATURES 614 Rose St. • 303-569-3100 Downieville | Exit 234 Fri-Sun: noon-5; Closed Mon-Thur ADVENTURES IN WHITEWATER rocky-mountain-miniatures.com 1041 C.R. 308 • 970-724-1122 SANTA FE TRAIL JEWELRY www.adventuresinwhitewater.com 504 6th St. • 303-569-0400 BREEZE/MAX SKI & Daily: 10-5 SNOWBOARD RENTALS 999 C.R. 308 • 303-567-2087 SERGEANT GREEN LEAF Sun-Thu: 8-6, Fri-Sat: 8-7 WELLNESS skirentals.com 1410 Argentine St. • 303-569-0444 Mon-Wed: 8-8; Thur-Sun: 8-9 STRAWBERRY FIELDS sergeantgreenleaf.com DISPENSARY 909 C.R. 308 • 719-471-2837 ext. 7 SHOPPE INTERNATIONALE/ Daily: 8-9 THE CHIRSTMAS SHOPPE strawberryfieldscannabis.com 608 6th St. • 303-569-2495 Daily: 10-5 THE HIGHWAY DISPENSARY THE SILVER FOX 507 6th St. • 303-569-5162 Wed:-Sat: 10-5; Sun: 10-5 & 6-7

GEORGETOWN LOOP GIFT SHOP STONEHENGE GALLERY 514 6th St. • 303-569-2153 646 Loop Dr. • 303-569-2058 stonehengecolorado.com georgetownloopgifts.com

1221 C.R. 308 • 720-242-8692 Daily: 8-8 thehighway.biz

Dumont | Exit 235 SELFSPONSORED SNOW & DIRT 291 C.R. 308 • 303-567-2098 Mon-Tue & Thur-Sat: 8-6; Sun: 8-noon www.selfsponsored.co

THE TRADING POST GEORGETOWN MARKET 510 6th St. • 303-569-3375 1204 Argentine St. • 303-569-2464 Daily: 6-8 Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018 52

Shopping All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

Idaho Springs | Exits 239, 240, 241 A CULTURE OF SPEED BIKE SHOP 1743 Miner St. • 720-410-2100 Fri-Sun: 9-5 acultureofspeed.com ANNIE’S GOLD & COLLECTIBLES 1514 Miner St. • 303-567-2268 Daily: 10-5 www.anniesgold.com THE BEE’S KNEES 1430 Miner St. • 702-236-0187 Daily: 11-5 BONFIRE CANNABIS CO. 15 Colorado Blvd., • 720-541-7089 Mon-Thur & Sun: 8:30-7; Fri-Sat: 8:30-8 bonfirecannabis.com CANYON OUTPOST 1502 Miner St., • 303-567-2906 canyontradingco.wordpress.com CANYON TRADING 1527 Miner St. • 303-567-4116 Daily: 10-5 canyontradingco.wordpress.com CLEAR CREEK DISCOUNT LIQUORS 2325 Miner St. • 303-567-2525 Sun-Thur: 8-9; Fri-Sat: 8-10 COLORADO GIFTS & T-SHIRTS 1503 Miner St. CLEAR CREEK OUTDOORS 1524 Miner St. • 303-567-1500 Daily: 10-5 clearcreekoutdoors.com CLEAR CREEK SUPPLY/ CAR QUEST 2448 Colo. Blvd. • 303-567-2693 Mon-Sat: 8-5:30 carquest.com/stores/co COLORADO SOUVENIRS & GIFTS 1503 Miner St. • 303-567-2630 ECHOS HIPPIE SHOP 1612 Miner St. • 20-338-2237 Mon-Thu: 11-5, Fri-Sat: 11-7 echoshippieshop.com

FALL RIVER BOTANICALS 1535 Miner St. • 303-567-0152 Daily: 11-7 fallriverbotanicals.com

MARGIE’S PLACE GIFT STORE 1534 Miner St. • 303-567-9383 Mon-Thur & Sun: 10-6; Fri-Sat: 10-8 margiesplace.mybigcommerce.com

FERAL MOUNTAIN 1630 Miner St. • 303-903-8584 Daily: 10-8 feralmountainco.com

THE MENAGERIE 1536 Miner St. • 303-567-1704

FOOTHILLS AUTO & TRUCK/ NAPA AUTO PARTS 2801 Colorado Blvd. • 800-538-6272 Mon-Fri: 8-6; Sat: 8-5; Sun: 9-4 www.napaonline.com GEORGETOWN VALLEY CANDY COMPANY 1501 Miner St. • 720-242-9524 Daily: 10-6 www.shopgvcc.com THE GOLD MINE SMOKE SHOP 1800 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2514 Daily: 10-7 thegoldminesmokeshop.com GROW IN PEACE 1241 Miner St. • 303-567-4769 Daily: 11-5 growinpeace.com GYPSUM ROSE MINERALS & FOSSILS 1800 Miner St. • 303-567-2219 Wed-Sun: 10-5 IDAHO SPRINGS MOUNTAIN GEMS JEWELRY 1447 Miner St. • 303-567-2789 Daily: 10-7 artisansjewelrycolorado.com IGADI DISPENSARY 2818 Colorado Blvd. • 303-561-2018 Sun-Wed: 8-8; Thu-Sat: 8-10 igadiltd.com JEWELRY BY ANTONIO/ PINE RIDGE TRADERS 1506 Miner St. • 303-216-0708 Mon-Fri: 10-6 jewelrybyantonio.com KIND MOUNTAIN COLLECTIVE 1535 Miner St. • 720-514-9278 Mon-Fri: 11-7; Sat-Sun: 11-8 mkt.com/store/kindmountain

MINER DECADENCE CHOCOLATE 1536 Miner St. • 303-567-1704 Wed-Mon: 10-5:30, Thu-Sun: 10-8:30 MOUNTAIN EXCHANGE JAH’S OUTDOOR 1608 Miner St. • 720-254-3163 Thur-Fri & Sun: 11-6; Sat: 11-7; Mon:11-5 MOUNTAIN MEDICINALS 2313 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-0420 Mon-Wed: 8-8; Thur-Sun: 8-9 MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE LIQUOR 2812 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2438 QUEEN’S WARDROBE THRIFT SHOPPE 1402 Miner St. • 303-567-2382 Mon-Sat: 10-4 SANDER GRAPHICS PRINTING & OFFICE 1437 Miner St. • 303-567-2079 THE SOAP SHOP 1542 Miner St. • 303-567-0428 Daily: 10-6 • sudsorama.com SPICE & TEA EXCHANGE 1634 Miner St. • 303-993-8018 Mon-Thur: 11-6; Fri-Sun: 11-7 spiceandtea.com/idaho-springs.html TIBET JEWEL 1434 Miner St. • 720-412-6383 THE WILD GRAPE 1435 Miner St. • 303-567-4670 Daily: 10-5

Hidden Valley | Exit 243 SQUATCH STORE/VALERO GAS 2195 E. Idaho Springs Road 720-504-3412 • Daily: 5-10 squatchstoregas.business.site

MOUNTAIN TOOL & FEED 2195 E. Idaho Springs Road MAJESTIC GALLERY 303-567-0122 1636 Miner St. • 303-567-9303 EXIT 240 SKI & BIKE RENTAL Mon-Sat: 9-6; Sun: 10-2 Daily: 11-5 1313 Idaho St. themajesticgallery.com mountaintoolandfeed.com Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018

SHOPPING All information subject to change. Call to confirm. COCONUTS WINE & SPIRITS Evergreen Parkway/ Central City | Exit 243 1153 Bergen Pkwy. P • 303-670-0800 El Rancho | ANNIE OAKLEY’S EMPORIUM Mon-Sat: 9-9; Sun: 10-6 Exits 251 & 252 & LIQUOR COLORADO FURNITURE 135 Nevada St. • 303-582-3530 DOGMA PET SUPPLY & WASH 1193 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-679-8000 Daily: 7-10 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-7297 Mon-Sat: 9-6; Sun: 11-5 Mon-Fri: 9-6; Sat: 9-5; Sun: 11-5 BONFIRE DISPENSARY coloradoconsignments.com dogmacolorado.com 135 Nevada St. • 303-582-3072 CRAVE CONSIGNMENT Daily: 11-7 EVERGREEN BICYCLE 1193 Bergen Pkwy. M • 303-670-0290 www.bonfirecannabis.com OUTFITTERS Mon-Fri: 10-5:30; Sat-Sun: 10-4 29017 Hotel Way • 303-674-6737 CENTRAL CITY CBD & TOBACCO consignmentshopevergreen.com Mon-Tue & Thur-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: 161 Gregory St. • 303-351-1617 11-4 DARE BOUTIQUE Sun-Thu: 11-7; Fri-Sat: 11-10 velocolorado.com 1260 Bergen Pkwy C130 • 303-670-9900 centralcitycbd.com Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5 GOLDEN NUGGET DISPENSARY EVERGREEN WINE & LIQUOR www.dareboutique.net 29017 Hotel Way #105C • 303-526-0350 127 Main St. • 303-582-2043 Mon-Thur: 10-9; Fri-Sat: 10-9:30; EVERGREEN BIKE SHOP Sun-Thur: 10-7; Fri-Sat: 10-10 Sun: 11-7 1342 C.R. 65 • 720-328-3726 www.goldennuggetdispensary.co Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 9-4; Sun: 10-3 HOME DEPOT GOLDEN ROSE ANTIQUES evergreenbikeshop.com 1014 El Rancho Road • 303-526-4347 107 Eureka St. • 303-330-1682 Mon-Sat: 6-9; Sun: 7-8 HEARTHFIRE BOOKS homedepot.com GREEN GRASS DISPENSARY 1254 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-4549 440 Lawrence St. • 303-582-5088 Mon-Fri: 8:30-8; Sat-Sun: 10-8 LE BOUDOIR Sun-Thu: 10-7; Fri-Sat: 10-8:30 www.hearthfirebooksandtreats.com 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-1815 www.greengrass-herb.com/ Mon-Fri: 9-6; Sat: 10-6; Sun: 11-5 KING SOOPERS leboudoirlingerie.com IGADI DISPENSARY 1173 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-8249 171 Lawrence St. • 303-582-3093 Mon-Sun: 5-Midnight NELLYBELLE GENERAL STORE Daily: Noon-8 kingsoopers.com 29017 Hotel Way • 303-200-0504 igadiltd.com Mon-Fri: 10:30-6; Sat: 10:30-5 MOUNTAIN DAISY nellybelle.com MOUNTAIN MENAGERIE 1254 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-6564 121 Main St. • 303-582-5365 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: 10-4 WALMART Daily: 11:30-6:30 mountaindaisy.com 952 Swede Gulch Road • 303-526-1649 mountainmenagerie.net Mon-Sun: 6-11 NATURAL GROCERS walmart.com RELIVING THE PAST STUDIO 1291 Bergen Pkwy • 303-679-9800 125 Main St. • 303-582-3881 Mon-Sat: 8-9:05; Sun: 8:30-8:05 Evergreen Parkway | Exits Thur-Fri: 1-4; Sat: 11-5 naturalgrocers.com 251 & 252 relivingthepaststudio.com THE OFFICE BERGEN PARK LIQUORS ROCKY MOUNTAIN ORGANICS 32156 Castle Ct, 211 • 303-872-4575 1348 C.R. 65 • 303-674-6989 DISPENSARY Mon-Fri: 8-5; Sat: 10-1 Mon-Sat: 10-10; Sun: 10-8 161 Gregory St. • 303-582-3991 printshopevergreen.com Sun-Thu: 11-7; Fri-Sat: 11-10 BLUE QUILL ANGLER THE UPS STORE 1532 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-4700 ST. JAMES THRIFT STORE/ 1153 Bergen Pkwy. I • 303-670-8700 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 9-5; Sun: 9-3 ERMEL’S EMPORIUM Mon-Fri: 8:30-6:30; Sat: 9-5 bluequillangler.com 111 Eureka St. • 303-582-1797 theupsstorelocal.com BLUE SPRUCE HABITAT FOR VILLAGE GOURMET Floyd Hill/Beaver Brook | HUMANITY STORE 1193 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-0717 Exits 247 & 248 1232 Bergen Pkwy • 303-674-4917 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: Noon-5 Tue-Sat: 10-5 SKI COUNTRY ANTIQUES villagegourmet.net bluesprucerestore.org & HOME 114 Homestead Road • 303-670-8726 CHOW DOWN PET SUPPLIES Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat: 10-5; Sun: Noon-5 1260 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-8711 skicountryantiques.com Mon-Fri: 9-7; Sat: 9-6; Sun: 10-5 www.chowdownpetsupplies.com Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Summer/Fall 2018 54