Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County: Winter 2018-19

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MOUNTAIN

Clear Creek County

Winter/Spring 2018-19

GUIDE

RECREATION & EXIT GUIDE

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

Winter Recreation • Ski Areas • Town Information • Event Listings Dining Guide • Coffee Shops • Breweries • Shopping • Pet Resources Lodging • Casinos • Winter Safety & Driving Tips • Dispensaries • More



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CONTENTS

Clear Creek County Winter Activities Ski Areas Winter Driving/Safety Loveland Pass | Exit 216 Herman Gulch | Exit 218 Bakerville | Exit 221 Silver Plume | Exit 226 Georgetown | Exit 228 Empire | Exit 232 Berthoud Pass Lawson | Exit 233 Downieville | Exit 234 Dumont | Exit 235 Marijuana Laws St. Mary’s/Alice | Exit 238 Idaho Springs West | Exit 239 Idaho Springs Central | Exit 240 Idaho Springs East | Exit 241 Hidden Valley | Exit 243 Central City/Casinos Highway 6 | Exit 244 Clear Creek Canyon Pet Resources Floyd Hill | Exit 247 Beaver Brook | Exit 248 El Rancho | Exit 251 Evergreen Pkwy. | Exit 252 Lodging Food & Drink Shopping — PUBLISHER —

Wideawake Media, Inc.

— PRODUCTION/CONTENT —

DESIGN/EDITORIAL: Jeffrey V. Smith mtnadventureguide@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 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. © 2018-19 Wideawake Media, Inc. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without permission from the publisher.

COVER: Dustin Schaefer/Loveland Ski Area

LOCAL CONTACTS ALL EMERGENCIES: CALL 9-1-1 STATE/FEDERAL Colorado 24-Hour Snow Report coloradoski.com/snow-report Colorado Avalanche Info Center 303-499-9650 • avalanche.state.co.us Colorado Highway Conditions 303-639-1111 • cotrip.org Colorado State Patrol - Golden 1096 McIntyre St., Golden Non-Emergency: 303-273-1616 colorado.gov U.S.F.S. Clear Creek Ranger District Visitor Information 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs 303-567-4382 fs.usda.gov/main/arp

IDAHO SPRINGS Chamber of Commerce 303-567-0387 idahospringschamber.org Idaho Springs Heritage Museum Visitor Center 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

SILVER PLUME Silver Plume Town Hall 710 Main St., Silver Plume 303-569-2363 • silverplumeco.com

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 Recreation Center 98 12th Ave., Idaho Springs 303-567-4822 clearcreekrecreation.com Clear Creek Tourism Bureau 2060 Miner St., Idaho Springs clearcreekcounty.org

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

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

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

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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 and just 20 minutes from the Denver metro area. 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, cross-county and telemark skiing, fat biking, fitness classes, hot springs, hunting, ice climbing, ice fishing, ice racing, ice skating, downhill skiing and snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, 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. 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

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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. Official county maps, including a variety of interactive ones, can be found by visiting www.co.clear-creek. co.us. Additional recreation maps, including the Clear Creek County Recreation & Trails Map, and other mapping resources can be found at clearcreekcounty.org. EXIT ICONS

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ALPINE SKIING

ICE CLIMBING

FOOD

MUSEUM

SNOWBOARDING

HUNTING

GAS

LIBRARY

SNOWSHOEING

PET FRIENDLY

VISITOR CENTER

RANGER STATION

FAT BIKING

MINE TOUR

LODGING

BAR

SNOWMOBILING

PROSPECTING

ATM/BANK

BREWERY

SWIMMING

PLAYGROUND

SCENIC OVERLOOK

DISPENSARY

Mountain Mountain Adventure Adventure Guide Guide - Clear - Clear Creek Creek County County • Winter/Spring • Summer/Fall2018-19 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.


WINTER activities

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lear Creek County features a wide range of winter recreation options from developed ski areas to quiet backcountry trails, many of which are some of the state’s more popular due to easy access and options for all abilities. This guide points out a few of the options and should be considered a jumping off point for discovering all the county has to offer. No matter the activity, always consult avalanche data at avalanche.state.co.us or 303-499-9650 before heading to the backcountry. Here are some of the activities residents and visitors enjoy in Clear Creek County.

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 MileHi Rafting, 3627 Alvarado Road, Exit 233 or Exit 234. Previous experience is not necessary. The minimum age for driving is 16. Visit milehirafting.com or call 303-567-0717 to learn more.

ICE RACING Our Gang 4 Wheelers holds ice racing events on Georgetown Lake on most weekends from Dec. 29-March 5, weather permitting. Spectators can watch for free. Park next to the lake. Races start at 9:30 a.m. View a schedule for a particular day and find more information, including how to participate in your vehicle, at ourgangiceracing.com.

CROSS-COUNTRY/TELEMARK SKIING A wide range of options for all abilities of cross-county and telemark skiers exist in the National Forest lands of Clear Creek County. Also, former railroad grades and nearly-flat developed routes provide excellent conditions for beginners, while other locations offer intermediate and expert terrain of all types. Most all options reward users with breathtaking views and excellent conditions.

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.

SKIING/SNOWBOARDING Clear Creek County is home to two downhill ski and snowboard areas, Loveland Ski Area and Echo Mountain, with Arapahoe Basin just across the border at Loveland Pass in Summit County. All are considered locals’ favorites. The county is also close to several other top Colorado resorts in Boulder, Summit and Grand counFITNESS & POOL ties. Visit coloradoski.com to learn more about these and most Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District’s Idaho Springs Rec- of Colorado’s other ski areas. reation Center, 1130 Idaho St., offers low-priced day-use passes to its pool/hot tub and fitness center’s full range of cardiovascu- SNOWMOBILING lar and weight lifting equipment and classes. Call 303-567-4822 Clear Creek County has several popular snowmobiling locations or visit clearcreekrecreation.com for a schedule and information. including the Jones Pass Road Trail, Fall River Reservoir and Stevens Gulch. Many other options can be found on maps availHUNTING able at the U.S.F.S. Ranger Station in Idaho Springs, 2060 Miner A variety of hunting is available in select areas of Clear Creek St. When snowmobiling in the county, be sure to be informed County. Visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website, cpw.state. about, and pay special attention to, all avalanche warnings. co.us/thingstodo/Pages/hunt.aspx, for complete information SNOWSHOEING about hunting, licenses, open areas and season dates. Clear Creek County, with more than 75 percent public lands within ICE CLIMBING its borders, is the perfect place to explore the backcountry on A handful of ice climbing locations can be found in Clear Creek snowshoes. A handful of popular trails for snowshoeing are highCanyon along U.S. 6 near Exit 244. Several sites produce surpris- lighted in this guide, but many more options exist. Most of Clear ingly fun ice climbs in a casual setting. Some of the climbs in the Creek County’s best summer hiking trails are transformed into upper canyon form consistently every year, while others at lower amazing snowshoeing treks during winter months. Explore all the elevations form up less frequently. All climbs are on the opposite options, especially if the goal is to avoid crowds. Pay attention to side of the creek on the northern aspect where they are shaded access, as some roads are closed in winter. from the sun most of the day. Details can be found online. WILDLIFE VIEWING ICE FISHING Rocky Mountain wildlife can be seen throughout Clear Creek Georgetown Lake at Exit 228 provides an easy way to ice fish in a County, especially when on quiet, backcountry trails. Do not aptop spot. Bring your own equipment. There’s a warming hut and proach or harass any wildlife. Always view from a safe distance. rest rooms. The main season for ice fishing is December to late The Georgetown Wildlife Viewing Station on Alvarado Road next February, when the ice is typically sure and conditions are right. to Georgetown Lake and the Gateway Visitor Center at Exit 228 A state fishing license is required in all locations. offer scopes for safe viewing of bighorn sheep and other wildlife. FAT BIKING Be sure to check, but most trails open to biking in summer are also open to fat bikes in the winter. There are countless options across the county, including hundreds of miles of mining and summer roads closed to motorized traffic in winter months.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

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SKI AREAS MOUNTAIN STATS Skiable Acres 1,800 lift served + 100 hikeable Trails 94 Base Elevation 10,800 feet Summit Elevation 13,010 feet Vertical Drop 2,210 feet Lifts 1 high-speed quad, 3 quad, 3 triple, 2 double, 2 surface lifts Longest Run 2 miles Slopes 13% Beginner 41% Intermediate 46% Advanced Average Snowfall 422 inches Snowmaking 240 acres Interstate 70 Exit 216, Georgetown 303-571-5580 skiloveland.com

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LOVELAND SKI AREA has been Denver’s local mountain for over 75 years and offers a classic ski experience not found at any megaresort. Situated high atop the Continental Divide, Loveland receives an average of 422 inches of snow each season, more than any resort in the Front Range or Summit County. This year Loveland unveiled its new lift, “Chet’s Dream,” its first high-speed quad named after the ski area’s longtime owner, Chester R. “Chet” Upham Jr.. It replaced Lift 1 and shortens ride time by five minutes. Loveland has something for every age and ability. Loveland Basin is the main area and offers a wide variety of terrain including wideopen cruisers, trees, bumps and open bowls. For beginners, Loveland Valley offers a separate, non-intimidating learning area to work on techniques with its own lifts and gentle terrain. Parking is free at both areas. Enjoy free snowcat skiing along the Continental Divide and explore some of Loveland’s most exhilarating terrain with a free ride on the Ridge Cat. Take in the amazing 360degree views while being whisked along the

Loveland Ski Area offers a wide variety of terrain.

Photo by Dustin Schaefer/Loveland

North side of The Ridge in the comfort of an 18-passenger snowcat. Skiers and riders are required to have a valid season pass or lift ticket in addition to Ridge Cat Pass which can be picked up free of charge at the Basin Ticket Office. This most difficult and expert terrain is only accessible by foot or snowcat – there is no lift access. Convenient, free parking is available at the base area and a shuttle service to and from the Basin & Valley is available every 5-10 minutes. Loveland’s 2018-19 season runs from Oct. 20May 5. It is open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and on weekends and holidays, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


SKI AREAS MOUNTAIN STATS

ARAPAHOE BASIN, known as “The Leg-

end” to many Coloradans, has one of the longest ski seasons in North America, open from October to June. Enjoy 360-degree views from the summit or lunch at Black Mountain Lodge while skiing some of the world’s best terrain. It offers a family-friendly, laid-back atmosphere with free slope-side parking, one convenient base area and affordable lessons for kids and adults through the season. This season, A-Basin debuted its The Beavers quad chairlift and an expanded The Beavers and The Steep Gullies areas for intermediate and expert guests. Approximately 371 acres of new terrain opened last season as a “preview” and this summer operations crews constructed 97 more acres of tree skiing and continued improving the rest of the terrain with grading and glading. II Rifugio at Snowplume, a European-style delicatessen in a mountain setting also opened this season. Most of A-Basin’s facilities are located in Mountain Goat Plaza in the base area including kids’ snowsports lessons, dining areas, retail shop, administrative offices and adult

A-Basin opened terrain in “The Beavers” this season.

Photo by Liam Doran/Arapahoe Basin

ski school. Lessons are offered for skiers and snowboarders of every ability level throughout the season. Both private and class lessons are offered during the regular season. A-Basin can be reached from Interstate 70 Exit 216 for Loveland Pass. Proceed west on U.S. 6 for 8 miles. When the pass is closed, access is from I-70 Exit 205 for Silverthorne. Arapahoe Basin’s season runs from Oct. 13June. Lifts begin operating at 9 a.m. Mon.-Fri. while some begin at 8:30 a.m. on weekend and select holidays. Lifts generally run until 3:30 p.m. during the week and 4 p.m. on weekends, but times vary.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Skiable Acres 1,428 lift served Trails 132 Base Elevation 10,780 feet Summit Elevation 13,050 feet Vertical Drop 2,530 feet Lifts 1 high-speed quad, 1 quad, 1 triple, 3 double, 3 surface Longest Run 1.5 miles Slopes 7% Easiest; 22% More Difficult; 45% Most Difficult; 26% Extreme Average Snowfall 350 inches Snowmaking 125 acres 28194 U.S. 6, Keystone 970-468-0718 arapahoebasin.com

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SKI AREAS MOUNTAIN STATS Skiable Acres 60 lift served Trails 7 Base Elevation 10,050 feet Summit Elevation 10,650 feet Vertical Drop 600 feet Lifts 1 triple, 1 surface Longest Run .4 miles Slopes 10% Beginner 75% Intermediate 10% Advanced 5% Expert Average Snowfall 275 inches Snowmaking 50 acres

ECHO MOUNTAIN begins its second sea-

son under the direction of CEO Peter Burwell and General Manager Fred Klaas. The ski area offers six trails on 60 acres and features a redesigned lodge with a restaurant and bar overlooking the Continental Divide. Echo Mountain sets itself apart by offering night skiing six nights a week, one of the few ski areas in Colorado that does. It also became the 23rd member of Colorado Ski Country USA

this season allowing it to offer the group’s existing pass programs including the Gems Card, which can be purchased for $25 and provides two-for-one lift tickets or 30 percent off adult lift tickets at the now 10 Gems Resorts. This season kicks off its season with a new tubing hill serviced by a covered conveyor lift. It also expanded the beginner learning area, increased snowmaking capacity and will offer RFID access gates for direct-to-lift access. The ski area will also continue to offer and expand its Ambassador Coaching Program included in a day lift ticket purchase. As part of the program, employees are available throughout the mountain to offer tips and suggestions to help guests learning or looking to progress their skills. Echo Mountain’s operating season runs Nov. 23-April 14, 2019. It is open Tues.Fri., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m. -9 p.m.

19285 Hwy. 103, Idaho Springs 970-531-5038 echomountain resort.com

BOULDER COUNTY

Nov. 7 - April 14 Acres: 680 • Lifts: 10 • Trails: 53+ 2861 Eldora Ski Road, Nederland 303-440-8700 eldora.com

SUMMIT COUNTY

Nov. 7 - April 21 Acres: 2,908 • Lifts: 34 • Trails: 187 1599 Ski Hill Road, Breckenridge 970-453-5000 breckenridge.com 8

GRAND COUNTY

GRAND COUNTY

Dec. 14 - March 31 Acres: 406 • Lifts: 6 • Trails: 33 1000 Village Road, Granby 888.850.4615 granbyranch.com

Nov. 14 - May 3 Acres: 3,081 • Lifts: 21 • Trails: 166 85 Parsenn Road, Winter Park 970-726-5514 winterparkresort.com

SUMMIT COUNTY

SUMMIT COUNTY

Nov. 16 - April 21 Acres: 2,465 • Lifts: 23 • Trails: 140+ 800 Copper Road , Copper Mountain 970-968-2318 coppercolorado.com

Nov. 7 - April 7 Acres: 3,148 • Lifts: 20 • Trails: 128 1202 Jones Gulch Road, Keystone 970-754-0001 keystoneresort.com

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


WINTER DRIVING

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olorado’s weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for tricky and sometimes dangerous winter driving conditions. Be a safe winter driver by slowing down; most crashes occur by driving too fast for the conditions. Leave extra space between vehicles, and always wear a seat belt. Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads. MAINTAIN TRACTION: Be sure to have good tire tread; start and stop gradually; drive at steady speeds; accelerate slightly when approaching a hill, then maintain a steady speed going up; and gear down on downgrades. SKIDS: When a vehicle begins to skid, remove your foot from the accelerator or brake, steer in the direction of the skid and once steady, turn the wheel straight and proceed. BRAKING: Be gentle when braking. Gently pump disc brakes to avoid locking wheels (anti-lock brakes do this automatically) – locking the wheels will cause a skid. Avoid braking on curves; drive through them at a safe, steady speed.

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In winter, Interstate 70 can become congested with ski traffic, especially on weekends and holidays. When conditions require, the Passenger Vehicle Traction and Chain Law can be implemented requiring snow tires, mud/snow tires or a four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicle. If your tires don’t have at least a one-eighth-inch tread when a Traction Law is called, you are in violation of the law and could end up with a fine. Chains or an alternative traction device like AutoSock may be used. AutoSock is available at Downieville Fuel Stop at Exit 234 and Mountain Tool and Feed at Exit 243. During peak travel times, the I-70 Mountain Express Lane opens to vehicles. It is dynamically priced to keep traffic moving. Avoid delays by planning ahead and staying informed about traffic and weather conditions. Call 511 any time for regularly updated road conditions. Visit COtrip.org, for road conditions, traffic camera live feeds, real-time alerts and Mountain Travel Radio, which broadcasts the most up-to-date travel information Friday afternoons, Saturday and Sunday mornings and afternoons, and on Monday holidays. GoI70.com provides a weekly I-70 travel forecast based on historical data and estimations of how weather, construction and mountain event may impact travel times.

WINTER SAFETY

hen heading to the backcountry, especially in winter, be aware of the range of dangers you may encounter, and prepare. Clear Creek County created a BackCounty Survival Guide card with tips, suggestions and a place to write contact and route information to assist rescuers if necessary. There are many things a backcountry user needs to know, but here are a few basic reminders: travel with a partner and stay together, tell others your plans, assess your physical abilities, wear appropriate clothing and know the weather. Keep in mind, your cell phone can be used to track your location and may provide a signal to emergency personnel if you’re lost. In winter, be sure to carry essentials including a first aid kit, compass, GPS or cell phone, matches and candle, pocket knife, flashlight, warm clothing, insulated footwear, shelter, emergency food and water, sunscreen and sunglasses, hat and waterproof gloves and outerwear. Remember cotton kills. Polypropylene or synthetic materials are highly recommended. Avalanches are the biggest danger in winter. Always check weather and avalanche data at 303-499-9650 or avalanche.state.co.us before heading out. Remember: 30-45 degree slopes are most prone; cross slopes one at time; carry a transceiver, collapsible probe, shovel and know how to use them; wear gear with Recco reflectors; avoid leeward ridge sides; slides are most common during and right after storms; avoid narrow gullies; stay high on ridges or well into valley floor; beware of nature’s warnings like collapsing layers and recent slides. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

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ccess U.S 6 West, Loveland Pass, Bakerville to Loveland Trail, Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Areas at this exit.

LOVELAND PASS is located on the Conti-

Loveland Pass Scenic Route to Summit County

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

Located on the Continental Divide on U.S. Hwy. 6 at an elevation of 11,990 feet, Loveland Pass is the highest mountain pass in Colorado that regularly stays open through winter. 10

BAKERVILLE TO LOVELAND TRAIL This 9.8-mile, lightly-trafficked, out-and-back paved trail parallels the interstate and frozen waters of Clear Creek as it goes through the forest. The trail entrance is north of the Loveland Valley parking lot. The trail, a segment of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, has an easy grade, is excellent for learning to snoeshow, cross-country ski or fat bike. It is closed to snowmobiles. An underpass connects to Herman Gulch and Watrous Gulch trails.

LOVELAND SKI AREA

I-70 Exit 216 • 720-552-5458 skiloveland.com 12/19 NSSA Safety Awareness -20 Weekend. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free w/lift ticket 2/14 28th Valentine’s Day Mountaintop Matrimony. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free w/lift ticket 3/17 St. Paddy’s Day Celebration w/Half Pelican. 9 a.m.5:30 p.m. Free w/lift ticket 4/21 Loveland’s Amazing Giant Easter Egg Hunt. 8:30 a.m.4 p.m. Free w/lift ticket 4/27 Corn Harvest Benefit. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $.

ARAPAHOE BASIN SKI AREA 28194 U.S. 6 • 970-468-0718 LOVELAND SKI AREA arapahoebasin.com Operating since 1936, Loveland Ski Area is near to the hearts 1/12 NSAA Safety Village. 10 a.m.and homes of generations of Colorado skiers and riders. High -13 1 p.m. Free w/lift ticket. atop the Continental Divide, the ski area features nine lifts 2/9 17th Annual Beacon Bowl & serving 1,800 acres. Loveland has free snowcat skiing, an Après Party. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. TBA. innovative lesson program and two base areas with rental 2/22 Fireman’s Firehose Relay. shops, sport shops, restaurants and bars. I-70 Exit 216. 72010:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free w/lift 552-5458, skiloveland.com. ticket. Mountaintop Matrimony 5/11 Swimwear Day & Rail Jam. The 28th Valentine’s Day Mountaintop Matrimony, Feb., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free w/lift ticket. 14, 2019, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., is a Loveland Ski Area tradition where new couples are joined in matrimony and married couples renew vows in a mass wedding at 12,050 feet. Pre-register to receive a “Marry Me & Ski for Free” two-for-one lift ticket special. ARAPAHOE BASIN SKI AREA Founded in 1946, Arapahoe Basin is located on the Continental Divide and offers 1,428 acres of some of the highest terrain in North America. A-Basin is known as a locals’ mountain, offering a laid-back, authentic Colorado ski experience along with a sport shop, restaurant and bar. 970-468-0718, arapahoebasin.com Shakin’ at the Basin Celebrate springtime at A-Basin with free, familyfriendly live music on the stage ek re EXIT 216 in Mountain Goat Plaza on rC a e Cl most Saturdays, April 27June 2, 1-4 p.m. SEE PAGE 6-8 FOR SKI AREA INFORMATION & MAPS Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

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Continental Divide

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

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AT THIS EXIT

nental Divide on U.S. Hwy. 6 at an elevation of 11,990 feet. It’s a popular destination for winter backcountry recreation and skiers looking for a lift to the top are a common sight on U.S. 6. Trails to nearby mountain peaks can be accessed from the Loveland Pass parking lot on the Continental Divide. Loveland Ski Area is located at the eastern end of the pass, and Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is on the west side.

EXI

216

LOVELAND PASS

Loveland Pass Exit 216

To Summit County



218

AT THIS EXIT Herman Gulch Trailhead Herman Lake

TRAILS Herman Gulch Trail ■ Watrous Gulch Trail ■

221

HERMAN Gulch

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o amenities or connections are at this exit, but its trailhead provides easy access to scenery-filled backcountry trails.

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 Herman Gulch Trail is a 6.4 mile out-and-back trail ending at Herman Lake with access to the Continental Divide Trail and Jones Pass Trail. Herman Gulch, known for spectacular views and deep snow, is ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Portions Road n Gulch Herma can be challenging. Watrous Watrous Way Gulch is shorter and easier with views of Torreys EXIT 218 Peak and nearby 13ers. Arrive prepared, there are Clear Creek no amenities at this exit. Herman Gulch Exit 218 Leashed dogs are welcome.

BAKERVILLE

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he winter tailhead to access Stevens Gulch, Grizzly Gulch and the Bakerville-Loveland Trail is located at this exit.

BAKERVILLE is an exit with no amenities and great access to the backcountry and an AT THIS EXIT Hunting on State Trust Land Trailhead Parking

TRAILS BakervilleLoveland Trail ■ Grizzly Gulch Trail ■ Steven’s Gulch Trail ■

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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. GRIZZLY GULCH SNOW TRAIL Access Stevens Gulch and Grizzly Gulch by following C.R. 321 to where it splits: Stevens Gulch is to the left and leads to the Grays-Torreys Peak trailhead while Grizzly Gulch is to the right. Both offer spectacular scenery. Snowmobiles are allowed. BAKERVILLE TO LOVELAND TRAIL This 9.8-mile trail parallels the interstate and Clear Creek. Parking can be found on the south side of the interstate adjacent to the trailhead. It is excellent for learning to snoeshow, crosscountry ski or fat bike.

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EXIT 22

Silver Valley

Clear Creek Stevens Gulch Road

SEE PAGE 10 FOR INFORMATION Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Road

To Silver Plume

Bakerville Exit 221


SILVER PLUME 226

S

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 camp on Clear Creek at 9,116 feet and a population of FEBRUARY 2019 about 200. The federally designated Georgetown-Silver 23 People for Silver Plume Plume National Historic District comprises Silver Plume, 10th Annual Cabin Fever Georgetown and the Georgetown Loop Historic Mining & Dance at George Downing Railroad Park between the two towns. While there are few Playhouse. 7-11 p.m. $10-$15. roadside amenities, there is a large park with picnic shelter, APRIL 2019 playground, history museum (closed in winter), intimate TBA Annual Original Musical bed and breakfast, weekend bar, coffee café, marijuana Melodrama & Dinner at dispensary, post office and popular trailheads. George Downing Playhouse. 6 p.m. Reservations: 303-569NATIONAL HISTORIC DISTRICT 2023. $15-$35 The Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District recalls the days of the Colorado Silver Boom from BREAD BAR LIVE MUSIC 1864-1893. The federally designated U.S. National Historic 1010 Main St. • 720-722-7323 breadbarsp.com Landmark features well-preserved buildings, mining remnants and other unique structures. 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 closed until May. ARGENTINE CENTRAL RAILROAD TRAIL This wooded trail features mining ruins and scenic views and is an excellent cross-country ski, snowshoe and fat bike route on an easy former railroad grade. It ultimately connects to Silver Dale trails. The maximum grade is 7.5 percent. 7:30 MINE TRAIL Snowshoe on 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. SILVER PLUME TO GEORGETOWN EXPRESS 7:30 Mine Hike or ride this paved path with a moderate grade between the Trail two towns and above the Georgetown Loop Railroad. BREAD BAR Housed in a 1800s-era bakery, the Bread Bar serves cocktails and occasional live music events on Fridays at 4 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. St on t dis and Sundays at noon. ree Ma n St EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

AT THIS EXIT Dinger Park George Rowe History Museum Closed until May Georgetown Loop Railroad - Silver Plume Depot Griffin Memorial National Historic District

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

Silver Plume to Georgetown Express ●

er S Silv

t

Mai

Mai

n St

St ward Wood

ree t

Dinger Park Water St

Clear Creek

Water St

EXIT 226 Argentine RxR Grade Trail

26

T2

EXI

Mounta

in St

Silver Plume

Exit 226 Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

850 Main St., Silver Plume 303-569-3121 Mon-Sat: 10am-Noon 13


228

GEORGETOWN

A

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 winter and early spring, recreation opportunities are easily reached from town. Georgetown Lake and a trail around it offer opportunities for ice fishing and snowshoeing. AT THIS EXIT Gold Mine Tour Georgetown Lake Georgetown Loop Railroad - Devil’s Gate Depot Hamill House Hotel de Paris Museum Mt. Bierstadt National Historic District Off-Leash Dog Park Playground Shopping Visitor Center Wildlife Viewing Station

700 6th St., Georgetown, CO 80444 800-275-8777 Mon-Fri: 8-4:45 Sat: 9-noon 14

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. 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. 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. 303569-0289. georgetowntrust.org GEORGETOWN LOOP RAILROAD Journey back in time with a ride on one of Colorado’s great narrow gauge railroads. Multiple departures from Georgetown occur daily. Enjoy Santa’s North Pole Adventure and Lighted Forest Train Rides, Nov. 17-Jan. 5. Come see more than 160,000 lights in the forest and with Santa to celebrate the season. All rail cars are enclosed and heated. From Exit 228, take Argentine Street south to the fork in the road. Stay to the right and follow the road to Devil’s Gate Depot. 646 Loop Dr., Georgetown. 888-456-6777. georgetownlooprr.com

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS NOVEMBER 2018

17-30 Santa’s North Pole Adventure and Lighted Forest Train Rides at Georgetown Loop Railroad. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $ 24 Georgetown Christmas Tree Lighting at Downtown Georgetown. 4:30-8 p.m. $. 23 Slacker Half Marathon, Relay & 4 Mile Races at Georgetown Lake. 8 a.m. $20-$65.

DECEMBER 2018

1-2 Annual Georgetown & 8-9 Christmas Market at Downtown Georgetown. 10 a.m. Free. 1-2 Christmas Corner at George& 8-9 town Heritage Center. 10 a.m. Free. 1-29 Victorian Christmas High Tea at Dusty Rose Tea Room. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $15.50-$36. 1-31 Santa’s North Pole Adventure and Lighted Forest Train Rides at Georgetown Loop Railroad. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $ 15 Christmas at the Hamill House at Hamill House. 69 p.m. $75-$100.

JANUARY 2019

1-5 Victorian Christmas High Tea at Dusty Rose Tea Room. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $15.50-$36.

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

CAPITAL PRIZE MINE Explore hundreds of feet of the original Capital Prize Mine and see what it was like to be an underground miner 100 years ago on one of the most extensive and authentic mine tours in Colorado. 1016 Biddle St. 303-569-2468. capitalprize.com

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

15


Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail ■ Tom Bennhoff Lake Trail ●

Greenway Park

EXIT 228

Clear Creek

ICE FISHING Georgetown Lake provides easy access to the sport of ice fishing. A warming hut is open to the public next to the lake. A valid Colorado fishing license is required. Buy one online at cpw.state.co.us or at Clear Creek Outdoors and Safeway in Idaho Springs at Exit 240, or Downieville Fuel Stop, Exit 234.

d

Silver Dale Trails ● ■

CHRISTMAS MARKET The 59th Annual Georgetown Christmas Market, Dec. 1-2 and 8-9, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., on 6th Street, has been a Christmas tradition for generations of Colorado families. Thousands of annual visitors experience the town adorned with lights and Christmas greenery and a traditional holiday including roasted chestnuts, craft vendors, horse-drawn wagon rides, appearances by St. Nicholas, carolers in Victorian costume and more. historicgeorgetown.org

in Roa

Silver Creek Trail ◆

22nd St

Mounta

Rutherford Trail ■

Saxon

Mt. Bierstadt Trail ◆

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 year round while providing easy access for ice fishing. Reach the Silver Creek Trail via a short connector trail.

Clear Creek Drive

Silver Plume to Georgetown Express ●

Georgetown Lake

reet

Clear Creek Greenway:

Main St

Argentine Central Railroad Grade Trail ●

WILDLIFE VIEWING STATION The Georgetown Wildlife Viewing Station offers a safe place to see bighorn sheep from coin-operated 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.

15th St reet

TRAILS

GEORGETOWN (cont.)

Argentine St

228

Georgetown

16

le St

Bidd

reet

Griffin St

t

Main St

Rose S

Taos S t

Arge

Lo o

pD

r

ntin

e St

Rose S t

Griffin St

Argenti

ne St

Main St

ICE RACING Exit 228 Our Gang 4 Wheelers ice racing club has held Gateway 14th St ice races in Colorado for 42 years. Find them Park 13th St on Georgetown Lake on most weekends beginning at the end of December depending Werlin Park/ Off-Leash on the weather. The racing is unique and its 11th St Dog Park one-of-a-kind style shouldn’t be missed. City Park/ Spectators are always free. Races start Playground at 9:30 am. View the planned order of 10th St classes for a particular day online. Racing is open to anyone. Ice rac9th St ing, featuring several classes 8th S t of vehicles, takes place Dec. 7th S 29, 30, Jan. 11, 12, 13, t SCENIC I-70 PULL-OUT 6th S Feb. 2, 3, 9, 10, 23, t A pull-out for eastbound 5th S 24, March 1, 2 t vehicles at Interstate 70 mile 4th S and 3. Visit the t 226 provides scenic views website for 3rd S of the valley between Silver t details, rules 2nd S Plume and Georgetown. There t and fees. are no restrooms. Learn about d ourgangiceGuanella Pass Roa Bighorn Sheep and other racing.com wildlife from signs. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

17


EMPIRE/U.S. 40

232 24mi

EMPIRE is part of Colorado’s early mining history

Butler Gulch Trail ◆ Continental Divide National Scenic Trail ◆ Jones Pass Trail ●

Freem a

Guane

Vasquez Peak Trail ■

BACKCOUNTRY SNOWCAT SKIING Operating in the Jones Pass area with an operating permit of 2,600 acres, Powder Addiction offers “epic” experiences for the winter sports enthusiast seven days a week. Whether a skier or snowboarder, a team of professional guides To Bill Moore share their knowledge and passion for North Empire Loop Trails the backcountry with everyone they To Berthoud guide. All trips include demo skis, safety Pass/Grand County gear, lunch and two beers at Sunn Pione y Ave er Roa the end of the day. d Park Av Visit powderaddice tion.com to learn Park Av more. e Hanch ett Ro ad TO EXIT Mounta 232 in Ave West Fork Cl

18

Stree

To Minton Park/Off-Leash Dog Park

Main

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

t

ear Creek

Empire Exit 232

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Mou

t

Berthoud Pass Trail ■

ntain

Ave

Avery S

Bard Creek Trail ◆

t

TRAILS

BILL MOORE LAKE/NORTH EMPIRE LOOP The Bill Moore/North Empire Loop trail system is a large network of roads offering skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. It’s 2.5 miles one-way to Bill Moore Lake and 9 miles to complete the loop. From Exit 232, take U.S. 40 to Empire and turn right on Main St.

t

Winter Park Ski Area

Cowle sS

Rocky Mountain National Park West Entrance

Daile y St

Off-Leash Dog Park

JONES PASS TRAILHEAD The Jones Pass Trailhead is a popular snowmobiling spot. Butler Gulch, a short distance up the road, is closed to motorized vehicles and used by skiers and snowshoers. Park and off load at the Henderson Mine gate and follow the Jones Pass road to reach backcountry bowls. The road climbs gradually to the top of the pass and descends steeply down the west side to a closed road. Be aware of XC skiers/snowshoes and a permitted snow cat operator in the area. From U.S. 40, turn left at the sign for Jones Pass/Henderson Mine. Parking is near the mine gate.

t

Jones Pass

Stree

Grand County

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.

Main

Bill Moore/North Empire OHV Trails

n St

Berthoud Pass

lla St.

AT THIS EXIT

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

and the search for gold. Gold was found here in 1860. The MAY 2019 new settlement was called Valley City, then changed to TBA A Perfect Pairing Beer & Empire City in 1861. It was incorporated in 1882. The town, Tapas Benefit at Easter Seals a popular place to stop for food, coffee and sweets, on the Rocky Mountain Village Camp. way to and from recreation hot spots on Berthod Pass and 5 p.m. $. beyond. Recently, a Boulder-based brewery re-opened the famous Original Hard Rock Café as a restaurant and tap room. Today’s population is about 383 people.

Ball S

24mi

T

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


BERTHOUD PASS BERTHOUD PASS provides a high route between upper Clear Creek Canyon to the upper valley of the Fraser

River in Middle Park to the north. Named for Edward L. Berthoud, the chief surveyor of the Colorado Central Railroad during the 1870s, the pass traverses the continental divide at the Front Range, on the border between Clear Creek County and Grand County. Once home to the now-defunct Berthoud Pass Ski Area, the pass is a destination for local backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers due to its abundance of steep and challenging terrain and plentiful snow averaging 500 inches annually. The twisting road on both sides of the pass also makes “car shuttles” possible, eliminating the need for skiers and snowboarders to hike back to the top of the pass after each run. The road over Berthoud Pass is modern, 4-lane alternating highway, is well maintained and is equipped with guard rails and other safety measures. Check weather and road conditions before making travel or recreation plans. Find additional resources online at cotrip.org, isberthoudpassopen.com and berthoudpass.org. BERTHOUD PASS TRAILHEAD The Berthoud Pass Trailhead, on the Continental Divide, offers a variety of winter activities. The site has a warming hut with vault toilets, interpretive information, and is open year-round. Winter activities include backcountry skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. No sledding or snowmobiling is allowed. BROOME HUT The Broome Hut, located just west of Berthoud Pass, is one of the finest high-altitude skiing locales in the state. Ease of access and great skiing make for excellent backcountry recreation. Visit grandhuts.org or call 970-925-5775 for information and reservations. WINTER PARK RESORT Just on the other side of the pass is the town of Winter Park and its ski resort. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Winter Park Resort offers an unforgettable experience for any kind of adventurer. With a 75-year history, Winter Park Resort is Colorado’s longest continually operated ski resort. The ski area received $30 million in updates this season— including a new 10-person gondola that takes just 5 minutes to get to the top—and introduced a new brand and logo. 85 Parsenn Road. 970-726-5514. winterparkresort.com.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

19


233 Eastbound Only!

AT THIS EXIT Adventure Park ATV Tours

TRAILS Spring Creek/ Silver City Road OHV Trails ◆

234

AT THIS EXIT Adventure Park ATV Tours Charlie’s Place Animal Shelter Dispensaries Historic Dumont Schoolhouse Philadelphia Mill Site Park Ski & Snowboard Rentals Ski Shop 20

LAWSON

T

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

LAWSON is a small, unincorporated community on 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 whitewater park and rafting in spring and summer as well as an adventure park with year-round lodging. Mile Hi Rafting, 3627 Alvarado Road, offers year-round ATV tours. LAWSON ADVENTURE PARK This family-friendly outdoor adventure park at 3440 Alvarado Road offers activity and lodging facilities on more than 40 acres. Activities are limited in winter. They also offer fully-furnished cabins, yurts, RV hookups and tent sites. Each Lawson cabin interior is decorated in its own Exit 233 theme with both modern and rustic To Empire designs. All cabins have a bedroom, 3 bathroom, and a fully-equipped EXIT 23 k Clear Cree kitchen. Visit lawsonadventurepark. com to learn more about winter acAlvarado Road To Georgetown tivities and lodging availability.

DOWNIEVILLE

B

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

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, businesses servicing travelers and skiers are located at the exit. It also provides access to nearby adventure parks, rafting company with ATV tours and the county animal shelter. SKI & SNOWBOARD RENTALS This exit offers a few convenient options for renting and purchasing skiing and snowboarding equipment on the way to the resorts. These stores also offer a wide range of outerwear and gear, discount lift tickets as well as equipment To Lawson for telemark skiing, backcounTo Dumont try skiing and snowshoeing. Clear Cre ek Let the local experts get you EXIT 234 geared up and on the right path for your next mountain advenDownieville Exit 234 ture or ski trip. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


DUMONT 235

T

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

DUMONT was founded in 1859 as Mill City, but changed its name in 1880 to honor Colonel 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. A snowmobile rental company and ski shop is located at the exit.

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 d

nt Roa

Dumo

ek

EXIT 235 Stan

ley R o

Dumont

To Idaho Springs

ad

Exit 235

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

Westbound Only! Westbound Only!

AT THIS EXIT Adventure Park Charlie’s Place Animal Shelter Historic Dumont School House Ski Shop Snowmobile Rental

307 C.R. 308 Dumont, CO 80436 303-567-4907 Mon-Fri: 12:30-4:30; Sat: 8-11:45

MARIJUANA • You must be over 21 to purchase and use marijuana • Use it on private property only Using marijuana in any form is illegal in public places including ski resorts, state and national parks, national forests and many hotels. • Federal land is under federal law If on federal land—like a national forest, national park and most ski areas—possession and use remains illegal. • Keep it in Colorado It’s illegal to leave the state with pot. • One ounce is the limit Adults over the age of 21 can purchase and have up to one ounce of marijuana on them at a time. • Don’t drive high, or get a DUI Under Colorado marijuana driving laws, you can’t drive if you have five nanograms or more of THC in your system. If you’re smoking, wait six hours before driving. If you’re eating or drinking a product with THC, wait eight hours. • Keep it sealed in your car It’s illegal for both driver and passenger to open and use any marijuana in a vehicle. • Only buy from a licensed retailer It’s the only legal way • Only medical patients can buy medical marijuana • Don’t share with anyone under 21 It’s a felony! VISIT GOODTOKNOWCOLORADO.COM FOR INFORMATION Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

21


238

ST. MARY’S/ALICE

F

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

ST. MARY’S GLACIER and the community of Alice are 9 miles above Exit

EXIT 238

Clea

r Cr eek

TRAILS

West Idaho Springs Businesses Whitewater Rafting

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

IDAHO SPRINGS - WEST

R

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, adventure parks and a gold mine tour. This is also a great place to begin an easy snowshoe hike or fat bike ride along Interstate 70 frontage roads and town trails. GOLD MINE TOUR The Phoenix Gold Mine offers an authentic trip into local mining history. 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 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. EXIT

239

Colorad

o Blvd.

oad ley R

Stan

Clear Creek

Idaho Springs - West

22

Virginia St

EXIT 239

Exit 239 Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Colorad

o Blvd. Idaho St

9th Ave

Stanley Road Bikeway

PARKING AT ST. MARY’S GLACIER The only legal parking for St. Mary’s Glacier trailhead are two pay parking lots south and north of the trailhead. There are restrooms and trash facilities at both lots, which cost $5 a day. There is NO PARKING on Fall River Road or in subdivisions. Find complete details and other community regulations at stmarysEXIT 2 38 glacier.com. Contact Clear Creek Ranger District at 303-567-3000 for the latest trail conditions and access restrictions.

8th Ave

Gold Mine Tour

d

AT THIS EXIT

Exit 234

oa yR nle

239

St. Mary’s Glacier/Alice

Sta

Lock Lomond Trail ■ Saint Mary’s Glacier Trail ●

Fall River Road

5th Ave

Fall River Road Lock Lomond Saint Mary’s Glacier

4th Ave

AT THIS EXIT

238. The area is rich in mining history and was home to a ski area from the 1930s through 1986. The glacier hike, and its stunning views, is one of the top tourist destinations in the county. The 3/4 mile trail is considered an easy hike. Leashed pets are welcome.

3rd Ave

9mi

Miner St



IDAHO SPRINGS

240

H 19mi

AT THIS EXIT

Echo Lake Park Hot Springs Resort National Historic District Ranger Station Recreation Center Squaw Mountain Fire Lookout Underhill Museum Visitor Center

TRAILS Barbour Fork Trail ■ 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

istoric downtown and Hwy. 103 to the Mount Evans area, Echo Lake and Echo Mountain Ski Area are located at this exit.

IDAHO SPRINGS, named for Chief 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. 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.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS NOVEMBER 2018

23 Opening Day at ECHO Mountain Resort. 11 a.m. $. 24 Idaho Springs Tree Lighting, Fireworks and Dinner with Santa & Mrs. Claus at Citizen’s Park/Clear Creek Recreation Center. 5 p.m. Free-$.

MAY 2019

26 18th Annual Idaho Springs Mining Days Festival and Pack Burro Race at Idaho Springs. 10 a.m. Free.

UNITED CENTER LIVE MUSIC

1440 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-1771 unitedcenterinc.com

BUFFALO/WESTBOUND & DOWN LIVE MUSIC 1617 Miner St. • 303-567-2729 westboundanddown.com

IDAHO SPRINGS RECREATION CENTER Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District’s Idaho Springs Recreation Center offers low-priced dayuse 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. 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 Colorado School of the Mines professor, Dr. Underhill surveyed many of the mines and lots in and around the city. Visitors to his home can wander through the rooms and experience Victorian life in a mining town. Dr. Underhill lived in the building until his death in 1954 at the age of 83. His wife, Lucy remained until 1963. 1416 Miner St., Idaho Springs. 303-567-4709. historicidahosprings.com. SQUAW MOUNTAIN FIRE LOOKOUT CABIN RENTAL Squaw Mountain Lookout, located off Hwy. 103 west of Bergen Park and southeast of Idaho Springs, sits at the summit of Squaw Mountain, which is an active communication tower site and popular dispersed recreation use area with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The unique structure was built in the 1940s by the Civilian Conservation Corps at over 11,000 feet elevation. It is available for rent year-round. During the winter months access is from a small parking area along Hwy. 103 at the junction of Forest Road 192.1 with a 2- to 3-mile snowshoe or cross-country ski to the lookout. Hwy. 103, Idaho Springs. 303-567-3016. fs.usda.gov/arp. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

25


IDAHO SPRINGS (cont.)

240

EXIT

t Wall S

Miner St

17th Ave

de

i ers Riv

Ave

Dr

Clear Cree

k

Colorado Blvd.

23rd

Colorado Blvd.

Water St

240

Wal l St Virgin ia St

Virginia St

16th Ave

14th Ave

Idaho St

15th Ave

Blvd

13th Ave

Colorado

Virginia Canyon Oh-My-God Road

Wall St

12th Ave

Miner St

Virginia St 11th Ave

10th Ave

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

River

side D

r

Colora

Miner St

do Blv d.

Soda Creek Road

k

Clear Cree

Idaho Springs - Central Exit 240

241

IDAHO SPRINGS - EAST

T

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

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

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

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 SKATE PARK Located at the East end of Idaho Springs, is a small modular skate park with steal and concrete ramps, half pipe and portable toilet. 3334 Riverside Dr.

Riverside Dr

Clear Creek Colorado Blvd

Miner St Edwards St

e Gibson Av

East Idaho Springs Businesses

25th Ave

AT THIS EXIT

IDAHO SPRINGS - EAST is the best way to access businesses and attractions located at the east end of town including the Argo Mill & Tunnel, a variety of restaurants and fast food, a grocery store, post office and the town’s Heritage Museum and Visitor Center. It also is the only way to reach County Road 314/Idaho Springs Road, which connects to Hidden Valley Exit 243.

Riverside Dr d

1

T 24

EXI

oa sR

ng

ho

Ida

ri Sp

Idaho Springs - East

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Exit 241


Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

27


243

HIDDEN VALLEY

CASINO PARKWAY

T

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

At Exit

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 & Parking Gold Mine Tour 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 of Central City features tours of several historic sites, shops, gallery and casino gaming 24 hours a day. 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.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS NOVEMBER 2018

30 Tommyknocker Holidays Tree Lighting, Potluck & Peak to Peak Chorale at Teller House. 26-31 Gilpin Arts Holiday Show & Sale at Washington Hall. gilpinarts.org

DECEMBER 2018

1-2 Tommyknocker Holidays Bazaar at Teller House. 1-22 Gilpin Arts Holiday Show & Sale at Washington Hall. gilpinarts.org

MAY 2019

24 Museums Open for Season at Various Locations. gilpinhistory.org

HIDEE GOLD MINE TOUR (6 miles) The Hidee Gold Mine lies in a beautiful, scenic canyon MILE HIGH ROOM AT filled with wildlife including bighorn sheep, deer, bear, GRAND Z CASINO LIVE MUSIC elk, fox, hawks and eagles. Learn geology, mineralogy 321 Gregory St. • 303-582-0800 and history while walking 700 feet underground in the reservecasinohotel.com well-lit, dry and safe mine. Tours include a stop at an authentic, five-foot-wide 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

To Central City

Central City

To Idaho Springs

28

Casino Pkwy

CENTRAL CITY VISITOR CENTER (9 miles) The Central City Visitor Center, 103 Eureka St., in Cle ar Cre the old Wells Fargo Building is open 10 a.m.ek 4 p.m. The City Council and everyone on staff is excited to have acquired this beautiful historic building to EXIT 24 3 house the Visitors Center. East Id Call 303-582-3345 for aho Sp rings R oad more information.

Hidden Valley/ Central City

Exit 243 Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


CENTRAL CITy CENTRAL CITY helped kick off the Colorado’s Gold Rush in 1859 and nearly became the state capital as it had

more culture than Denver, and plenty of gold. It was known as “The Richest Square Mile on Earth.” In 1874, all but one of the buildings on its Main Street were destroyed by fire and all new buildings in the business district were ordered to be rebuilt using brick or stone to minimize damage in a future fire. Most of these buildings still stand today, making Central City’s Main Street a rare historic survivor. The Central City Opera House, opened in 1878, still holds performances today. Several movies and television shows, including “The Duchess and the Dirtwater Fox” and several Perry Mason, episodes were filmed in the town. 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. 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 visitors 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. gilpinhistory.org CENTRAL CITY OPERA HOUSE 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. 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. The gallery hosts its Holiday Show & Sale on weekends, Nov. 23 - Dec. 22 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The show features fine art and fine craft priced up to $200 and gift items like woodwork, pottery, jewelry, candles, and nice quality textiles and glass as well. Visit the gallery website for additional upcoming events and exhibits. 117 Eureka St. 303-582-5952. gilpinarts.org

I

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. EASY STREET CASINO

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

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

FAMOUS BONANZA CASINO

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

GRAND Z CASINO HOTEL

321 Gregory St., Central City 303-582-0800 • Open 24 Hours grandzcasinohotel.com

JOHNNY Z’S CASINO

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

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

29


U.S. HIGHWAY 6

244 Left Side Exit for Eastbound

36mi

36mi

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 Eldora Mountain Resort Mayhem Gulch Trailhead Oxbow Trailhead Prospecting Ice Climbing

TRAILS

Peaks to Plains Trail ●

30

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 ELDORA MOUNTAIN RESORT Eldora Mountain Resort offers something for everyone: steeps, bumps, glades, terrain park, worldclass Nordic Center, acclaimed Children’s Center, groomed corduroy along and free close-in parking. 303-440-8700, www.eldora.com 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 amenities like the Cat Slab climbing wall. 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. Hunting is allowed during a seasonal closure, and by permit only. Lateseason hunting access occurs Dec. 1-Jan. 31. 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 PEAK TO PLAINS TRAIL This paved, 10-foot-wide trail straddles the border of Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties and 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. It makes for an easy snowshoe hike or fat bike ride. Visit peaks2plains.wordpress.com to learn more. PROSPECTING Clear Creek Canyon Park provides almost 10 miles of access to gold bearing waterway for visitors. RecreTo ational gold prospecting is allowed in Clear To Creek only within Clear Creek Canyon Park, see posted signs for per44 missible areas. Prospect244 XIT 2 EXIT T I E reek 244 ing is prohibited in some EX C ar areas. Prospectors must Cle adhere to all prospecting Highway 6/ and park regulations. jefClear Creek Canyon fco.us/open-space/parks/ Exit 244 clear-creek-canyon-park ek Cre

Mayhem Gulch/ Juniper Loop Trail ■

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.

ar Cle

Centennial Cone/ Travois Trail ■

T

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

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


CLEAR CREEK CANYON PARK CLEAR CREEK CANYON PARK offers unique recreation experiences—including some of the area’s only ice climbing—among its steep canyon walls and creek. The park runs the length of the canyon along U.S. 6 from Golden to the intersection of Hwy. 119 at the Clear Creek County line where it connects to Clear Creek County Open Space. Activities may be limited in winter, but the scenery in the canyon is always worth the drive. The Mayhem Gulch, Tunnel 5 Oxbow and Clear Creek Canyon Big Easy trailheads offer parking, toilets and access to trails. The Peak to Plains Trail is paved, 10-foot-wide and ADA accessible Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed. Camping, shooting and fires are prohibited. 303-271-5925. jeffco.us/ open-space/parks/clear-creek-canyon-park ICE CLIMBING According to mountainproject.com, several sites along U.S 6. in Clear Creek Canyon between Golden and Black Hawk produce “surprisingly fun ice climbs in a casual setting.” The canyon is an excellent location for a variety of ice climbers whether just learning or practicing more advanced skills. Some climbs in the upper canyon form consistently every year, while others at lower elevations form up less frequently. All the climbs except for those in the Aqueduct Area are formed by natural drainages that feed Clear Creek. All climbs are on the left side of the road, on the opposite side of the creek on the northern aspect where they are shaded from the sun most of the day. The ice tends to be clear water ice. Information on mountainproject.com warns, the easy access of these climbs from the road and their proximity to the Denver area, make these climbs some of the most popular and crowded climbs on the Front Range. Be patient and considerate of other parties on the ice. Wear a helmet, belay out of the way of the path of icefall, call any falling ice, and always be aware of other parties. All of the climbs in Clear Creek Canyon are capable of being top roped, but also make for exciting beginner leads.

PET RESOURCES

W

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. If you take your dog with you to the backcountry, keep in mind that hiking in snow can be much more physically demanding and is very taxing for a dog. For the health and safety of your pet: get a pre-trip checkup, verify trails are dog friendly, keep them warm, protect their feet, keep them hydrated, watch for signs of exhaustion, know the signs of hypothermia. 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, pet gear or other pet supplies while visiting Clear Creek County, stop by Mountain Dog Outfitters, 505 Rose St., and Family Dollar, 1560 Argentine St. in Georgetown, Exit 228; Dancing Dog Pet Supplies, 1241 Miner St., Idaho Springs, Exit 240; 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. 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 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 303670-0838 or visit beaverbrookpetcenter.com to learn more. Many more emergency options exist in Golden and Denver metro area. Other pet resources include Bergen BARK Inn, 2989 Bergen Peak Dr., bergenbarkinn.com; Evergreen Cat Lodge, 32163 Soda Creek Dr., evergreencatlodge.com and Soggy Dog Pet Grooming & Boutique, 30901 Stagecoach Blvd., soggydoggrooming.com, near Exits 251/252 and the Evergreen Parkway. Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

31


Clear Creek H.S. Clear Creek County Open Space

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

248 WESTBOUND ONLY!

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

TRAILS Beaver Brook Watershed Open Space ● Floyd Hill Open Space Trail ■ Saddleback Mountain Trail ■ 32

FLOYD HILL and Beaver Brook are residential areas near the eastern county line. 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 Saddleback Mountain is a “local gem” with spectacular views located in the Beaver Brook Watershed Open Space. South of Interstate 70, turn right on Hyland Road and follow signs to Saddleback Mountain. FLOYD HILL OPEN SPACE TRAIL This new 1.3 mile loop trail connects the I-70 corridor to Clear Creek Canyon to access Clear Creek County Open Space and Jefferson County Open Space. 37899 U.S. 40. co.clear-creek.co.us

To U.S. 6

EXIT

247

To Beaver Brook

ad

Antique Store

USE FLOYD HILL EXIT 247 TO ACCESS BEAVER BROOK EXIT 248 WHEN HEADING EASTBOUND

d Ro

AT THIS EXIT

T

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

stea

EASTBOUND ONLY!

FLOYD HILL

Hom e

247

Hyla n

d Dr

Be

av er

Floyd Hill Exit 247

Br oo

k

Ca

ny on

BEAVER BROOK

T

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

USE BEAVER BROOK EXIT 248 TO ACCESS FLOYD HILL EXIT 247 WHEN HEADING WESTBOUND

BEAVER BROOK and Floyd Hill are residential areas near the eastern county line. The exits access Clear Creek County open space areas at Beaver Brook Watershed and Floyd Hill. County Road 65 is an alternative route to Evergreen Parkway/Lariat Loop Scenic Byway at Exit 248. It also is a quick way to reach 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 To is one of the last remaining undeveloped Floyd Hill subalpine forests in the Front Range. It is inhabited by a variety of wildlife including EXIT 248 elk, deer, bear, turkey and mountain lion. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat Beaver Brook biking are permitted. Dogs are allowed, but Exit 248 must be on a leash. co.clear-creek.co.us Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


T

EL RANCHO 251

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

EASTBOUND ONLY!

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

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. ELK MEADOW PARK Elk Meadow Park offers diverse recreation experiences including an option for the 4.7-mile difficult trail with a 2,100-foot elevation gain from the Stagecoach Boulevard trailhead to 9,708-foot Bergen Peak. Stagecoach Trailhead: 32281 Stagecoach Boulevard; Lewis Ridge Trailhead: 2855 Bergen Peak Dr. jeffco.us/Open-Space

AT THIS EXIT EXIT

251

Elk Meadow Park

El Rancho/ Evergreen Parkway

TRAILS To Evergreen Parkway

Exit 251

Painter’s Pause/ Founders Trail ●

EVERGREEN PkWy 252

T

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

WESTBOUND ONLY!

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

Ev erg

ree nP

kw y

l Road

Rainbow Hil

EVERGREEN PARKWAY, part of the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway, is a fourto six-lane roadway connecting Interstate 70 and El Rancho with Squaw Pass Road/Hwy. 103, Bergen Park and Evergreen’s shopping, dining and night life. It reaches Morrison and C-470 in 18 miles. LARIAT LOOP SCENIC BYWAY This 40-mile route connecting Golden, Morrison, and Ev2 25 ergreen passes dozens of open space parks, museums, IT X E and other heritage sites in foothills, canyons, and meadows. www.lariatloop.org CENTER FOR THE ARTS EVERGREEN Evergreen The Art Center hosts art exhibitions showcasParkway To El Rancho ing national mountain community artists. It Exit 252 is open, free of charge, Monday-Saturday. d h Roa Enjoy the 16th Annual Holiday Show and Gift To Evergreen e Gulc Sued Shop, Nov. 16-Dec. 26. 31880 Rocky Village Road. 303-674-0056. evergreenarts.org Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

AT THIS EXIT Elk Meadow Park

TRAILS Painter’s Pause/ Founders Trail ● 33


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. • 303-569-2202 • horstmannhousebb.com 200 Rose St. • 303-578-7844 • rosestreetbnb.com

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

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

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Miner’s Pick Bed & Breakfast

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

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles) 210 Hooper St. • 303-809-5679 • 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 • 303-482-2605 • elkrunbedandbreakfast.com 4395 Independence Trail • 303-674-3577 • highlandhaven.com 30500 U.S. 40 • 720-938-2413 • mountainbountybedandbreakfast.com 26490 Hwy. 74 • 303-674-1901 • thecabinsatcountryroad.com

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

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

Georgetown Mountain Inn

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

✔ ✔

Hotel Chateau Chamonix

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

Lawson | Exits 233 & 234

Lawson Adventure Park Cabins

3440 Alvarado Road • 855-372-7238 • lawsonadventurepark.com 34

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


LODGING MINI-FRIDGE

Bearadice Motel

Columbine Inn

H & H Motor Lodge

Idaho Springs Motel

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

MICROWAVE

PETS

2920 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2691 • 6n40motel.wixsite.com

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.

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

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

Indian Hot Springs

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

J C Suites

✔ ✔

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

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 • 303-674-7467 • alpenwaychalet.com 27425 Spruce Lane • 303-670-1205 • bearsinn.com 27400 Hwy. 74 • 303-674-3442 • coloradobearcreekcabins.com

RV PARKs

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Cottonwood RV Campground

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

Central City | Exit 243 (+7 miles)

KOA Denver West/Central City

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

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

35


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 15 601 14th St. • 303-569-2080 • Daily: 11-Midnight Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Vintage Moose Tavern

See ad page 2 123 16th Ave. • 303-567-2375 • Daily: 11-1

West Winds Tavern

1633 Miner St. • 303-567-0982 • Daily: 1-1

Highway 6 | Exit 244

Two Bears Tap & Grill

33295 U.S. Hwy. 6 • 303-567-2227 • Mon, Wed-Fri: Noon-8; Sat-Sun: 10-8

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Charlie’s Bar

118 Main St. • 303-552-5932 • Mon-Thu: 4-2; Fri-Sun: 11-2

Gold Coin Saloon

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

Evergreen Parkway | Exits 251 & 252

Casa Tequilas

1193 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-679-1913 • casatequilasevergreen.com • Sun-Thu: 10:45-10; Fri-Sat: 10:45-11

The Wild Game

1204 Bergen Pkwy. • 720-630-8888 • thewildgameevergreen.com • Sun-Thu: 11-10; Fri-Sat: 11-11

The Woodcellar Bar & Grill

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

BREWERIES & BREWING COMPANIES Georgetown | Exit 228 Guanella Pass Brewing Company 501 Rose St. • 303-569-5167 • guanellapass.com • Daily: 11-9

Empire | Exit 232

Stein Brewing Company at Hard Rock Café 18 E. Park Ave. • 720-739-2337 • stein-brewing.com

See ad page 37

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

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Dostal Alley Brewpub & Casino

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

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 36

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19



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

BREWERIES (cont.) Evergreen Parkway | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles) Evergreen Brewery & Tap House

2962 Evergreen Pkwy. • evergreenbrewery.com • Mon-Tues: 3-10; Wed-Thu: Noon-10; Fri-Sat 11-11; Sun 11-9

Evergreen | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles)

Lariat Lodge Brewing Company

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

CANDY, PASTRIES & ICE CREAM Georgetown | Exit 228 End of the Line 1901 Ice Cream Fountain 503 6th St. • 303-563-2058 • georgetownloopgifts.com

Georgetown Valley Candy Company

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

Mountain Girl Baking Company

See ad page 39 710 6th St. • 303-569-5043 • mtngirlbakingco.com • Wed-Fri: 9-5; Sat-Sun: 8-5

Empire | Exit 232

Empire Dairy King

See ad page 19 181 Park Ave. • 303-569-3103 • Mon-Wed: 11-7; Fri-Sun: 11-8; Closed Thu

Lewis Sweet Shop

208 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-2379 • lewissweetshop-empire.com • 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. • 720-242-9524 • shopgvcc.com • 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. • 303-670-4549 • hearthfirebooksandtreats.com • Mon-Fri 8:30-6; Sat-Sun 10-5

Evergreen | Exits 251 & 252 (+8 miles)

Alpine Pastries Bakery

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

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

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

Georgetown | Exit 228

Dusty Rose Tea Room

614 Rose St. • 303-569-3100 • dustyrosetearoom.com • Wed-Sat: 11:30-5

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

Empire | Exit 232

Mountain Xpress Coffee Company

420 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-5009 • mountainxpresscoffeeco.business.site • Thu-Fri: 8-Noon; Sat-Sun: 7-2 38

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19


Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

39


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

COFFEE SHOPS & TEA ROOMS (cont.) Downieville/Dumont | Exit 234 Starbucks 999 C.R. 308 •303-567-4530 • starbucks.com • Daily: 6:30-8

Idaho Springs | Exit 240

Starbucks

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

The Frothy Cup

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

Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252

HearthFire Books & Treats

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

Starbucks

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

Starbucks/King Soopers

1173 Bergen Pkwy. • 877-421-9062 • starbucks.com • Daily: 6-8

The Bagelry

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

Central City | Exit 243 (+9 miles)

Retro Deli/Starbucks

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

Z Café/Starbucks

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

Z Café/Starbucks @ Grand Z Casino

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

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

American

$

Alpine Restaurant

Am/Pizza

$$

Cafe

$

Cooper’s on the Creek

See ad page 15 1500 Argentine St. • 303-569-5088 • coopersonthecreek.com

American

$$

Georgetown Market

Grab-n-Go

$

Lil’ Annie’s Café

Cafe

$

Lucha Cantina

Mexican

$$

Full

Grill

$

Full

Cafe/Pizza

$

B/W

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

Blue Sky Cafe

1510 Argentine St. • 303-719-0317

1204 Argentine St. • 303-569-2464 507 Rose St. • 303-569-5143

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

Mothers Saloon

601 14th St. • 303-569-2080

See ad page 15

Mountainbuzz Cafe & Pizzeria

1200 Argentine St. • 303-569-2020 • mountainbuzzcafe.com 40

✔ ✔

BAR

COST

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

DINNER

RESTAURANTS Georgetown | Exit 228 A Whistle Stop Cafe

CUISINE

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

No ✔

Full No

✔ ✔

Full

No

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

No



FOOD & DRINK CUISINE

COST

LUNCH

DINNER

BAR

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

BREAKFAST

All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

Asian

$

Full

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

Sandwich

$

No

Roundabout Burgers & Dogs

Grill

$

No

American

$$

Italian

$$

Grill

$

Grill

$

No

American

$

Full

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

Grab-n-Go

$

No

Subway

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

Sandwich

$

No

Taco Bell

Fast Food

$

No

Mexican

$$

Full

Pizza

$$

Full

Buffalo Restaurant & Bar

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

American

$$

Full

Carl’s Jr. / Green Burrito

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

Fast Food

$

No

Clear Creek Cidery Tavern & Taps

American

$

B/W

Asian

$/$$

Full

Middle East $/$$

No

Full

RESTAURANTS (cont.) Georgetown | Exit 228 (cont.) Pho Bay III See ad page 41

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

Subway

1416 Argentine St. • 303-569-2559

The Happy Cooker

See ad page 17 412 6th St. • 303-569-3166 • happycookerrestaurant.com

Troia’s Cafe & Marketplace

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

No ✔

Full

Empire | Exit 232

Empire Dairy King

181 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-3103

See ad page 19

Lewis Sweet Shop

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

Stein Brewing at Hard Rock

See ad page 37 18 E. Park Ave. • 720-579-7190 • stein-brewing.com

No

Downieville/Dumont | Exit 234

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

Idaho Springs | Exit 240 & 241

Azteca Mexican Restaurant

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

Beau Jo’s Pizza

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

1446 Miner St. • 303-567-2158 OPENING SOON

Eric’s Asian Cafe

See ad page 39 2700 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-1166 • ericsasiancafe.com

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

Hilldaddy’s Wildfire Restaurant 2910 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2775

Am/Mex

Main Street Restaurant

American

1518 Miner St. • 303-567-2788 • mainstrestaurant.com 42

$/$$ ✔ $$

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19

Full


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

RESTAURANTS (cont.) Marion’s of the Rockies 2805 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2925

American

$

McDonalds

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

Fast Food

$

No

MTN Prime

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

Steakhouse

$$

Full

Oink Food Truck

Am/Mex

$

Pizza

$

Edelweiss Pastry Shop

See ad page 27 1520 Miner St. • 970-309-0117 • Daily: 7:30-close

Bakery

$

Pick Axe Pizza

1637 Miner St. • 303-567-2148

Pizza

$

Safeway (Deli)

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

Deli

$

Smokin’ Yards BBQ

BBQ

$$

Subway

2900 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2670 • subway.com

Sandwich

$

Tommyknocker Brewery Restaurant

American

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

102 Colorado Blvd. • 303-880-5354

Picci’s Pizzeria & Bakery

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

No

✔ ✔

Full

No No

✔ ✔

No

3.2

B/W

No

$$

Full

Grill

$$

Full

Two Brothers Deli

See ad page 25 1424 Miner St. • 303-567-2439 • twobrothersdeli.com

Deli

$

B/W

West Winds Tavern

Grill

$

Full

American

$

No

El Rancho Brewing Restaurant

29260 U.S. 40 • 303-670-2739 • elranchobrewing.com

American

$$

Full

El Senor Sol Mexican Restaurant 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-725 • elsenorsol.com

Mexican

$$

Full

Illegal Burger

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

American

$

No

McDonalds

902 Swede Gulch Road • 303-526-5810 • mcdonalds.com

Fast Food

$

No

QDOBA Mexican Eats

Mexican

$

No

Deli

$

No

Sandwich

$

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

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

1633 Miner St. • 303-567-0982

Floyd Hill | Exit 247 & 248

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

Evergreen Parkway/El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252

29057 Hotel Way • 303-526-4333 • 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 • Winter/Spring 2018-19

No 43


SHOPPING All information subject to change. Call to confirm.

Silver Plume | Exit 226

GEORGETOWN VALLEY CANDY COMPANY GEORGETOWN LOOP GIFT SHOP 500 6th St. • 303-569-2778 825 Railroad Ave. • 303-569-2058 Daily: 10-6 • shopgvcc.com georgetownloopgifts.com THE GREEN SOLUTION OUTLET GRIZZLY CREEK GALLERY, INC. 512 6th St. • 303-569-0433 645 Water St. • 720-689-2346 Daily: 10-5 • grizzlycreekgallery.com Daily: 9-8 • tgscolorado.com KNEISEL & ANDERSON Georgetown | Exit 228 GROCERY STORE 511 6th St. • 303-569-2650 ASPEN CREEK GIFTS Sun: 11:30-5:30; Mon-Sat: 9:30-6 509 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 See ad page 17 509 B Rose St. • 405-919-0052 Daily: 10-6 • georgetownjerky.com GEORGETOWN LOOP GIFT SHOP 646 Loop Dr. • 303-569-2058 georgetownloopgifts.com GEORGETOWN MARKET 1204 Argentine St. • 303-569-2464 Daily: 6-8 GEORGETOWN ROCK SHOP 501 6th St. • 303-569-2750 Daily: 9-6:30

MOUNTAIN DOG OUTFITTERS 505 Rose St. • mountaindogoutfitters.com OPHELIA’S ANTIQUES 606 6th St. • 303-569-2336 • Daily: 11-5 RAILROAD ART BY SCOTTY 509 6th St. • 303-956-7208 Thur-Mon: 10-4:30

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

Downieville | Exit 234

BREEZE/MAX SKI & SNOWBOARD RENTALS 999 C.R. 308 • 303-567-2087 ROCKY MOUNTAIN MINIATURES Sun-Thu: 8-6, Fri-Sat: 8-7 • skirentals.com 614 Rose St. • 303-569-3100 HIGH LEVEL HEALTH Fri-Sun: noon-5; Closed Mon-Thur DISPENSARY rocky-mountain-miniatures.com 1221 C.R. 308 • 720-242-8692 SANTA FE TRAIL JEWELRY Daily: 8-9 504 6th St. • 303-569-0400 highlevelhealth.com Daily: 10-5 STRAWBERRY FIELDS SERGEANT GREEN LEAF DISPENSARY WELLNESS 909 C.R. 308 • 719-471-2837 ext. 7 1410 Argentine St. • 303-569-0444 Daily: 8-9 • strawberryfieldscannabis.com Mon-Wed: 8-8; Thur-Sun: 8-9 T.B.S. SNOWBOARD SHOP sergeantgreenleaf.com 1041b C.R. 308, Dumont, CO SHOPPE INTERNATIONALE/ 303-567-9279 • Daily: 7-7 THE CHIRSTMAS SHOPPE 608 6th St. • 303-569-2495 Dumont | Exit 235 Daily: 10-5 HARB SKI SYSTEMS See ad page 21 THE SILVER FOX 107 C.R. 308, Dumont, CO 507 6th St. • 303-569-5162 303-567-0679 Wed:-Sat: 10-5; Sun: 10-5 & 6-7 Fri-Tue: 1-6; Closed Wed-Thur STONEHENGE GALLERY harbskisystems.com 514 6th St. • 303-569-2153 SELFSPONSORED SNOW & DIRT stonehengecolorado.com 291 C.R. 308 • 303-567-2098 THE TRADING POST Mon-Tue & Thur-Sat: 8-6; Sun: 8-noon 510 6th St. • 303-569-3375 www.selfsponsored.co THE QUILTED PURL Idaho Springs | 707 Taos St. • 303-569-1115 Exits 239, 240, 241 Mon, Wed & Fri-Sat: 10-5; Tue, Thur & Sun: noon-5 A CULTURE OF SPEED thequiltedpurl.com BIKE SHOP 1743 Miner St. • 720-410-2100 Empire | Exit 232 Fri-Sun: 9-5 acultureofspeed.com COLORADO COUNTRY

GENERAL STORE GEORGETOWN WINE & SPIRITS ANNIE’S GOLD & COLLECTIBLES 6 E. Park Ave. • 303-569-2546 1406 Argentine St. • 303-569-3138 1514 Miner St. • 303-567-2268 Sun: 10-6; Mon-Thur: 10-8; Fri-Sat: 10-9 Thu: 11-7, Fri-Mon: 7-7 Tues: 7-noon Daily: 10-5 • anniesgold.com Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19 44


Shopping All information subject to change. Call to confirm. THE BEE’S KNEES 1430 Miner St. • 702-236-0187 Daily: 11-5 BONFIRE CANNABIS CO. See ad page 23 15 Colorado Blvd., • 720-541-7089 Mon-Thur & Sun: 8:30-7; Fri-Sat: 8:30-8 • bonfirecannabis.com

GEORGETOWN VALLEY CANDY COMPANY 1501 Miner St. • 720-242-9524 Daily: 10-6 • shopgvcc.com THE GOLD MINE SMOKE SHOP 1800 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2514 Daily: 10-7 • thegoldminesmokeshop.com

CANYON OUTPOST 1502 Miner St., • 303-567-2906 canyontradingco.wordpress.com

GYPSUM ROSE MINERALS & FOSSILS 1800 Miner St. • 303-567-2219 Wed-Sun: 10-5

CANYON TRADING 1527 Miner St. • 303-567-4116 Daily: 10-5 canyontradingco.wordpress.com

IDAHO SPRINGS MOUNTAIN GEMS JEWELRY 1447 Miner St. • 303-567-2789 Daily: 10-7 • artisansjewelrycolorado.com

CLEAR CREEK DISCOUNT LIQUORS 2325 Miner St. • 303-567-2525 Sun-Thur: 8-9; Fri-Sat: 8-10

IGADI DISPENSARY 2818 Colorado Blvd. • 303-561-2018 Sun-Wed: 8-8; Thu-Sat: 8-10 igadiltd.com

COLORADO GIFTS & T-SHIRTS 1503 Miner St.

JEWELRY BY ANTONIO/ PINE RIDGE TRADERS 1506 Miner St. • 303-216-0708 Mon-Fri: 10-6 • jewelrybyantonio.com

CLEAR CREEK OUTDOORS See ad page 27 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 DANCING DOG PET SUPPLIES 1241 Miner St. • 303-519-0447 Tue-Sun: 10-6 ECHOS HIPPIE SHOP 1612 Miner St. • 20-338-2237 Mon-Thu: 11-5, Fri-Sat: 11-7 echoshippieshop.com EXIT 240 SKI & BIKE RENTAL 1313 Idaho St. FALL RIVER BOTANICALS 1535 Miner St. • 303-567-0152 Daily: 11-7 • fallriverbotanicals.com FERAL MOUNTAIN 1630 Miner St. • 303-903-8584 Daily: 10-8 • feralmountainco.com FOOTHILLS AUTO & TRUCK/ NAPA AUTO PARTS 2801 Colorado Blvd. • 800-538-6272 Mon-Fri: 8-6; Sat: 8-5; Sun: 9-4 napaonline.com

KIND MOUNTAIN COLLECTIVE 1535 Miner St. • 720-514-9278 Mon-Fri: 11-7; Sat-Sun: 11-8 mkt.com/store/kindmountain MAISON DE SKI RENTALS 2804 Colo. Blvd., Idaho Springs 303-567-2044 Mon-Fri: 7:30-5:30; Sat-Sun: 7-7 maisondeski.com MAJESTIC GALLERY 1636 Miner St. • 303-567-9303 Daily: 11-5 • themajesticgallery.com MARGIE’S PLACE GIFT STORE 1534 Miner St. • 303-567-9383 Mon-Thur & Sun: 10-6; Fri-Sat: 10-8 margiesplace.mybigcommerce.com THE MENAGERIE 1536 Miner St. • 303-567-1704

MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE LIQUOR 2812 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-2438 NAPA AUTO PARTS - FOOTHILLS AUTO & TRUCK PARTS 2801 Colorado Blvd. • 720-645-2554 Mon-Fri: 8-6; Sat: 8-5; Sun: 9-4 napaonline.com QUEEN’S WARDROBE THRIFT SHOPPE 1402 Miner St. • 303-567-2382 Mon-Sat: 10-4 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHEESE CO. 1428 Miner St. • 303-567-9991 Daily: 11-6 • rockymountaincheese.com SANDER GRAPHICS PRINTING & OFFICE 1437 Miner St. • 303-567-2079 THE SOAP SHOP See ad page 25 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 303-567-0122 Mon-Sat: 9-6; Sun: 10-2 mountaintoolandfeed.com

MINER DECADENCE CHOCOLATE 1536 Miner St. • 303-567-1704 Wed-Mon: 10-5:30, Thu-Sun: 10-8:30

Central City | Exit 243

MOUNTAIN EXCHANGE JAH’S OUTDOOR 1608 Miner St. • 720-254-3163 Thur-Fri & Sun: 11-6; Sat: 11-7; Mon:11-5

BONFIRE CANNABIS CO. See ad page 23 135 Nevada St. • 303-582-3072 Daily: 11-7 • bonfirecannabis.com

MOUNTAIN MEDICINALS 2313 Colorado Blvd. • 303-567-0420 Mon-Wed: 8-8; Thur-Sun: 8-9

ANNIE OAKLEY’S EMPORIUM & LIQUOR 135 Nevada St. • 303-582-3530 • Daily: 7-10

CENTRAL CITY CBD & TOBACCO 161 Gregory St. • 303-351-1617 Sun-Thu: 11-7; Fri-Sat: 11-10 centralcitycbd.com Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19 45


SHOPPING All information subject to change. Call to confirm. GOLDEN NUGGET DISPENSARY 127 Main St. • 303-582-2043 Sun-Thur: 10-7; Fri-Sat: 10-10 goldennuggetdispensary.co

EVERGREEN WINE & LIQUOR 29017 Hotel Way #105C • 303-526-0350 Mon-Thur: 10-9; Fri-Sat: 10-9:30; Sun: 11-7

DARE BOUTIQUE 1260 Bergen Pkwy C130 • 303-670-9900 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5 www.dareboutique.net

GOLDEN ROSE ANTIQUES 107 Eureka St. • 303-330-1682

HOME DEPOT 1014 El Rancho Road • 303-526-4347 Mon-Sat: 6-9; Sun: 7-8 • homedepot.com

EVERGREEN BIKE SHOP 1342 C.R. 65 • 720-328-3726 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 9-4; Sun: 10-3 evergreenbikeshop.com

GREEN GRASS DISPENSARY 440 Lawrence St. • 303-582-5088 Sun-Thu: 10-7; Fri-Sat: 10-8:30 greengrass-herb.com/ IGADI DISPENSARY 171 Lawrence St. • 303-582-3093 Daily: Noon-8 • igadiltd.com

LE BOUDOIR 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-1815 Mon-Fri: 9-6; Sat: 10-6; Sun: 11-5 leboudoirlingerie.com NELLYBELLE GENERAL STORE 29017 Hotel Way • 303-200-0504 Mon-Fri: 10:30-6; Sat: 10:30-5 nellybelle.com

MOUNTAIN MENAGERIE 121 Main St. • 303-582-5365 Daily: 11:30-6:30 • mountainmenagerie.net WALMART 952 Swede Gulch Road • 303-526-1649 RELIVING THE PAST STUDIO Mon-Sun: 6-11 • walmart.com 125 Main St. • 303-582-3881 Thur-Fri: 1-4; Sat: 11-5 Evergreen Parkway/ relivingthepaststudio.com ROCKY MOUNTAIN ORGANICS DISPENSARY 161 Gregory St. • 303-582-3991 Sun-Thu: 11-7; Fri-Sat: 11-10 ST. JAMES THRIFT STORE/ ERMEL’S EMPORIUM 111 Eureka St. • 303-582-1797

Floyd Hill/Beaver Brook | Exits 247 & 248

SKI COUNTRY ANTIQUES & HOME 114 Homestead Road • 303-670-8726 Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat: 10-5; Sun: Noon-5 skicountryantiques.com

Evergreen Parkway/ El Rancho | Exits 251 & 252 DOGMA PET SUPPLY & WASH 29017 Hotel Way • 303-526-7297 Mon-Fri: 9-6; Sat: 9-5; Sun: 11-5 dogmacolorado.com EVERGREEN BICYCLE OUTFITTERS 29017 Hotel Way • 303-674-6737 Mon-Tue & Thur-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: 11-4 • velocolorado.com

46

HEARTHFIRE BOOKS 1254 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-4549 Mon-Fri: 8:30-8; Sat-Sun: 10-8 www.hearthfirebooksandtreats.com KING SOOPERS 1173 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-8249 Mon-Sun: 5-Midnight kingsoopers.com MOUNTAIN DAISY 1254 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-6564 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: 10-4 mountaindaisy.com

Bergen Park | Exits 251 & 252 NATURAL GROCERS

BERGEN PARK LIQUORS 1348 C.R. 65 • 303-674-6989 Mon-Sat: 10-10; Sun: 10-8

1291 Bergen Pkwy • 303-679-9800 Mon-Sat: 8-9:05; Sun: 8:30-8:05 naturalgrocers.com

BLUE QUILL ANGLER 1532 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-4700 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 9-5; Sun: 9-3 bluequillangler.com BLUE SPRUCE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY STORE 1232 Bergen Pkwy • 303-674-4917 Tue-Sat: 10-5 • bluesprucerestore.org

THE OFFICE 32156 Castle Ct, 211 • 303-872-4575 Mon-Fri: 8-5; Sat: 10-1 printshopevergreen.com

BOONE MOUNTAIN SPORTS 2962 Evergreen Pkwy. • 303-670-0039 Daily: 10-6 • boonemountainsports.com

VILLAGE GOURMET 1193 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-670-0717 Mon-Fri: 10-6; Sat: 10-5; Sun: Noon-5 villagegourmet.net

CHOW DOWN PET SUPPLIES 1260 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-674-8711 Mon-Fri: 9-7; Sat: 9-6; Sun: 10-5 chowdownpetsupplies.com COCONUTS WINE & SPIRITS 1153 Bergen Pkwy. P • 303-670-0800 Mon-Sat: 9-9; Sun: 10-6 COLORADO FURNITURE 1193 Bergen Pkwy. • 303-679-8000 Mon-Sat: 9-6; Sun: 11-5 coloradoconsignments.com CRAVE CONSIGNMENT 1193 Bergen Pkwy. M • 303-670-0290 Mon-Fri: 10-5:30; Sat-Sun: 10-4 consignmentshopevergreen.com

THE UPS STORE 1153 Bergen Pkwy. I • 303-670-8700 Mon-Fri: 8:30-6:30; Sat: 9-5 theupsstorelocal.com

The town of Evergreen, on the Evergreen Parkway about 8 miles from I-70, is home to many more shops, boutiques, galleries, services, restaurants and nightlife establishments. Visit downtownevergreen.com and evergreenchamber.org to learn more. and find a complete list of Evergreenarea businesses.

Mountain Adventure Guide - Clear Creek County • Winter/Spring 2018-19




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