Idaho Springs
Along the I-70 corridor, 30 miles west of Denver lies the tiny town of Idaho Springs, Colorado. A familiar sight for local mountain sport enthusiasts, Idaho Springs is the gateway to the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Including Mount Evans, at 14,265 feet the 12th tallest mountain peak in Colorado. Take Exit 240 to state Highway 103 at and visit the ranger station, museum and visitors center. From there it is scenic 15 mile drive to the top where one can enjoy panoramic views of the Front Range and beyond. With a population of just under 2,000, passers through and destination travelers frequently marvel at the seemingly unending number of options when it comes to things to do and places to stay in Idaho Springs. Be it camping, horseback riding, golfing and mountain biking, fishing, hiking, mountaineering, photography, historic railroad rides, scenic drives, or whitewater rafting in the summer months, there are plenty of deals and discounts to take advantage of and something for everybody to enjoy in the Clear Creek Canyon and the town of Idaho Springs.
Founded in 1859, with the discovery of gold, the town underwent several name changes before finally settling on its current moniker. Idaho Springs has a long history of mining. After the gold supply was exhausted, major discoveries of ore in the surrounding hills fueled further growth of the town. These days, Idaho Springs exists as a community for workers at nearby resorts and caters to vacationers year round.
For those wishing to enjoy the majesty of summer in the Rockies, Idaho Springs is a great place to start. Easily accessible from Denver International Airport by way of Interstate I-70, one can be lost in the awe inspiring wonder of the ancient peaks just 45 minutes after collecting their baggage. With a host of lodging options like B&Bs, budget hotels, mountain condos and inns available for travelers, making Idaho Springs your home base over your stay can be an affordable and wise choice over more expensive mountain resort towns.
After the snow melts, spring, summer and fall vacationers can escape the ever-increasing cost of high end resort accommodations and amenities by taking advantage of Idaho Springs’ proximity to other resort areas like Winter Park and Summit County, located approximately 30 miles west and northwest respectively. When the weather warms, campers and hikers will be in heaven as there is no shortage of campgrounds or trails accessible. Golfers seeking diverse mountain terrain will be right at home in Idaho Springs. Whether it’s the manicured lawns of the foothills or the high altitude excitement of a 20% longer tee shot set against craggy peaks, any and every type of course is just a short drive away. Of course, the year round access to the therapeutic waters of Indian Hot Springs and it’s luxury spas let visitors unwind under clear blue skies. Also, in the near vicinity to Idaho Springs is Echo Lake, one of Colorado's beautiful bodies of water. The park at Echo Lake was established in 1921 at the base of Goliath Peak. On the shore of the lake sits a famous rustic lodge.
Beyond the nearby outdoor activities, Idaho Springs also provides a unique glimpse of old west culture in it’s historic petite downtown. One of a kind shops, golf mime tours, craft beer and museums of the town’s mining history let visitors experience Colorado’s old west roots.
If you are considering a vacation to Idaho Springs Colorado, you need look no further to find deals on lodging, food, restaurants, shopping and any number of outdoor activities regardless of the season. A Rocky Mountain vacation need not break the bank when you can experience all Idaho Springs and the surrounding areas have to offer. Plan your trip by taking advantage of all the Idaho Springs' deals and discounts, and you will go home with a head full of memories and stories to share.
