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Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel: A Glimpse into Colorado's Gold Rush History

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Explore Colorado's gold rush history at the Argo Mill and Tunnel. Discover mining ingenuity and try your luck at gold panning!

The Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel in Idaho Springs offers a fascinating journey into Colorado's gold rush era. Explore the historic mill and tunnel, discover the ingenuity behind gold extraction, and experience the thrill of gold panning. It's a unique blend of history, engineering, and hands-on fun.

A brief summary to Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel.

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and stairs within the mill structure.
  • Book your tour online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as part of the tour is outdoors.
  • Arrive a bit early to explore the outdoor exhibits and mining equipment before your tour begins.
  • Don't skip the gold panning experience – it's a fun and memorable activity for all ages.

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Getting There

  • Car

    The Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel is located at 2350 Riverside Dr, Idaho Springs, CO 80452. From Denver, take I-70 West to exit 241 for US-6 toward Idaho Springs. Merge onto US-6 and continue into Idaho Springs, then turn left onto Riverside Drive. The Argo Mill will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. Parking can be limited during busy times.

  • Public Transport

    From Denver, take the Bustang, Pegasus, or Outrider bus to the Idaho Springs Bus Stop. From there, it's approximately a 1.5-mile walk to the Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel. Alternatively, local taxi services or ride-sharing options like Uber or Lyft are available for a short ride to the destination. Bus fare from Denver to Idaho Springs: ~$10-20. Taxi/rideshare from the bus stop to Argo Mill: ~$10-15.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to travel to Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel, located at 2350 Riverside Dr, Idaho Springs, CO 80452. Fares from Denver typically range from $50 to $70, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Discover more about Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel

Step back in time at the Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel, a well-preserved relic of Colorado's gold rush, located in Idaho Springs. This historical landmark provides a unique glimpse into the ingenuity and labor that defined the Victorian Industrial Revolution. The Argo Mill and Tunnel stands as a testament to the technological innovations and entrepreneurial spirit of the era.The Argo Tunnel, initially named the Newhouse Tunnel, stretches 4.2 miles to Central City. Constructed between 1893 and 1910, it drained water from the mines in the area and facilitated ore removal. The success of the tunnel led to the construction of a large mill at its entrance to process the extracted ore. The mill processed over $100 million in gold ore when gold was valued at $18 to $35 per ounce.Today, visitors can take guided tours of the mill and a portion of the tunnel, with gold panning demonstrations included. The five-story mill houses much of its original equipment, offering a glimpse into the past. The bottom level features a museum displaying mining artifacts, payroll records, and photographs. The Argo is also part of a 400 square mile EPA Superfund Site. The property has been remediated and hosts more than 40,000 visitors annually.

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