The town of Idaho Springs is a statutory city in the Western United States, the most populous municipality in Clear Creek County, Colorado. As of the 2010 census it had a population of 1,717.Idaho Springs is located in Clear Creek Canyon, in the mountains upstream from Golden, some 30 miles (50 km) west of Denver. Local legend is that the name of the city derived from annual visits to the radium hot springs made by a Native American chief and his tribe who journeyed there each year from Idaho to bathe in the magic healing waters.
Founded 161 years ago in 1859 by prospectors during the early days of the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, the town was at the center of the region’s mining district throughout the late nineteenth century. The Argo Tunnel drained and provided access to many lodes of ore between Idaho Springs and Central City. During the late twentieth century, the town evolved into a tourist center along U.S. Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 40, which ascend Clear Creek Canyon through the historic mining district.
The town today is squeezed along the north side of Interstate 70, with a historical downtown in the central portion, a strip of tourist-related businesses on its eastern end, and mostly residences on its western end. It also serves as a bedroom community for workers at the Loveland Ski Area farther up the canyon. The town today is the largest community in Clear Creek County, but, for historical reasons, the county seat has remained at Georgetown.
Idaho Springs is a historic town in Colorado, USA’s Clear Creek County. Situated at an approximate altitude of 7,500 feet in the Rocky Mountains, this place is well-known for its scenic splendor, abundant outdoor leisure options, and its extensive mining legacy. This is a synopsis of Idaho Springs:
Location & Geography: About 30 miles west of Denver, in the Clear Creek Valley, sits Idaho Springs. Travelers travelling towards the Rocky Mountains may readily visit it because to its convenient location along Interstate 70.
Mining History: The town’s past is strongly associated with the nineteenth-century Colorado Gold Rush. In 1859, prospectors flocked to Idaho Springs after learning of the discovery of gold, which sparked the development of nearby mines. Remains of this past are still visible today, such as old houses and artifacts from mining.
Hot Springs: Indian Hot Springs, a historic spa and hot springs complex, is located in Idaho Springs. While admiring the breathtaking views of the mountains, guests can unwind in the geothermal mineral waters.
Outdoor Recreation: Hiking, mountain biking, and fishing are just a few of the many outdoor activities available in the area. There are hiking and scenic alpine landscape exploration opportunities in the neighboring Mount Evans Wilderness Area and Arapaho National Forest.
Clear Creek: Whitewater rafting and fishing are available along the Clear Creek River, which flows through Idaho Springs. Tubing in the summer is another popular activity on the creek.
Idaho Springs boasts a quaint and meticulously maintained historic downtown area. Explore neighborhood stores, galleries, eateries, and cafes housed in old structures.
Clear Creek County Heritage Center: This museum features mining, Native American, and regional development exhibits, highlighting the history and culture of Clear Creek County.
Education: The Clear Creek School District, which serves the students in the area, includes Idaho Springs.
Annual activities: The community holds a number of activities all year long to honor the memory of Buffalo Bill Cody, who spent a brief time living there. One such event is Buffalo Bill Days.
Transportation: Idaho Springs is a well-liked stop for visitors going to and from the Rocky Mountains due to its placement along Interstate 70. Denver is roughly an hour’s drive away from the town.
Recreational Marijuana: Idaho Springs was one of the first Colorado towns to legalize the selling of marijuana for recreational use, which boosted the local economy.
Idaho Springs is the starting point for visiting Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s fourteeners, or peaks higher than 14,000 feet. To get to the peak, visitors can take the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Once there, they’ll be able to see mountain goats and enjoy beautiful vistas.
Idaho Springs is a quaint mountain community that combines outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and history. Idaho Springs offers a glimpse of Colorado’s distinctive mountain culture and tradition, whether you’re hiking in the nearby wilderness, relaxing in the hot springs, or touring its historic downtown.