Idaho Springs East End | Exit 241

The gender specific caves, private baths and outdoor Jacuzzis at Indian Hot Springs, 302 Soda Creek Road, are continually fed pure mineral water at 115 degrees. With an average temperature of 90-100 degrees, the mineral water swimming pool — complete with flowering plants and live banana and palm trees — is a family favorite. The resort also features a spa and a variety of accommodations for overnight guests. Call 303-989-6666 or visit indianhotsprings.com to learn more.

Ride or lead horses along varied terrain in the National Forest. Ranger offices offer trail information and detailed maps to locate trailheads with adequate trailer parking. Pack animals are not allowed in developed campgrounds or where posted. The Hells Hole Trail and Captain Mountain Trail through the Mount Evans Wilderness, which opens June 15, are some of the area’s best options. The Hells Hole Trailhead is three miles down West Chicago Creek Road, which is 6.5 miles south of Idaho Springs on Hwy. 103. The trail begins where the road ends. The Captain Mountain Trail starts at the Echo Lake Trailhead, which is off Hwy. 5/Mount Evans Road located 14 miles south of Idaho Springs on Hwy 103. Park outside of the Echo Lake Campground and follow the road through the campground to find a trail marker. A mandatory free self-issuing permit is required for the Mount Evans Wilderness. They are available at the trailhead or entry point into the wilderness. Bridal Veil Falls and Charlie Tayler BRIDAL VEIL FALLS AND CHARLIE TAYLER WATERWHEEL Waterwheel on Clear Creek Picturesque Bridal Veil Falls and the Charlie Tayler Waterwheel, built in the 1890s, can be viewed up close after a short and easy walk from downtown. The trail, which goes under I-70, begins at Harold Anderson Park behind Town Hall, 1711 Miner Street. The waterfall spills out of Soda Creek and into Clear Creek.

ARGO Gold Mill & Tunnel Courtney Ryley Cooper Park Idaho Springs Ball Field Complex & Synthetic Ice Rink Visitor Center & Ranger Station

2420 Colo. Blvd. Idaho Springs, CO 80452 303-567-2903 Mon-Fri: 8:30-5; Sat: 9-noon This Idaho Springs exit is the best way to reach attractions — including the Argo Gold Mill & Tunnel — restaurants, businesses and accommodations at the east end of town.

The Mighty Argo Mill and Tunnel, 2350 Riverside Dr., is one of the region’s most prominent National Historic Landmarks. It was a central character in the Colorado gold-rush and remains one of the largest, most well-preserved historic gold mills in the world. Begun in 1893, the Argo Tunnel extends over 4.5 miles intersecting most major gold mines between Idaho Springs and Central City, while its mill, which stands over 110 feet tall, dates from 1913. Tour schedules in 2021 are subject to change. It is recommended to book online or call ahead to confirm availability. The Mercantile is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 303-567-2421 or visit argomilltour.com for tours and additional information.

The Idaho Springs Ball Field Complex, 101 Idaho Springs Road, features two ball fields, restrooms and a performance stage. Special events are held at the complex throughout the summer including “Summer Family Days,” June 26 and Aug. 28, featuring outdoor recreation, family activities, live music and food truck. A “Christmas in July” event with cookie decorating, photos with Santa and more is July 24. The park also features a synthetic Glice “ice rink” with skating and a Bumper Car Ride suitable for kids and adults for a fee. A non-motorized trail connects the complex to Downtown Idaho Springs. Call 303-567-4822 or visit clearcreekrecreation.com for more information.

Argo Gold Mill & Tunnel