Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours: A Journey into Colorado's Mining Past

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Explore an authentic 1860s gold mine in Georgetown, Colorado. Discover the challenges and triumphs of early miners on an underground walking tour.

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Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours

Descend into the depths of Griffith Mountain at the Capital Prize Gold Mine in Georgetown, Colorado, for an authentic 1860s mining experience. Walk over 1,000 feet into the mountain, witnessing the challenges and triumphs of early miners while exploring tunnels and veins of gold and silver.

A brief summary to Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours

1016 Biddle St, Georgetown, Colorado, 80444, US
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Monday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Tuesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Wednesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Thursday 11 am-3:30 pm
Friday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Saturday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Sunday 10:30 am-3:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours.

Wear closed-toe shoes and a light jacket, as the mine maintains a constant temperature of around 50°F (10°C).
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure tour availability.
Allow extra time to enjoy rock breaking activities and explore the historic sites outside the mine.
Consider visiting during the warmer months to try gold panning outside the mine.

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Getting There

Driving

From I-70, take Exit 228 into Georgetown. At the traffic circle, continue towards town on 15th Street, then turn right onto Main Street. Turn left onto 11th Street, then right onto Biddle Street. The Capital Prize Gold Mine will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Expect heavier traffic and allow for extra travel time during peak tourist seasons and due to Floyd Hill construction. Limited parking is available in downtown Georgetown. Street parking is generally available, but pay attention to street signs for restrictions. Parking lots are also located near Guanella Pass Brewery and behind Strousse Park.
Public Transport

From Denver, take the Bustang West Line to the Idaho Springs Park and Ride. Then, transfer to the Clear Creek County Transit Georgetown Route. This route will drop you off at Family Dollar Georgetown Roundabout. From there it is approximately a 15-minute walk to the mine. Bustang from Denver to Idaho Springs: $6 - $9. Clear Creek County Transit: $3.
Ride Share

From Denver International Airport, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available to Georgetown. The average cost of an UberX trip from Denver to Georgetown is approximately $74. The mine is located at 1016 Biddle Street.

Discover more about Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours

The Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours in Georgetown offers a unique glimpse into Colorado's rich mining history. Established in 1867 by the Griffith Brothers, the mine produced millions in gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper. Unlike many mines of the era, the Capital Prize was never abandoned, preserving its equipment and original blacksmith shop. Visitors can explore over 1,000 feet of tunnels, experiencing the conditions miners faced while working by candlelight. Knowledgeable guides share stories of drilling, blasting, and mucking, highlighting the importance of mining in the Wild West. The mine remains active, allowing visitors to witness modern prospecting operations. The mine maintains a constant temperature of around 50°F (10°C), providing a cool escape in the summer and a warm refuge in the winter. The tour is interactive, allowing visitors to swing a pickaxe, push an ore cart, and even break open a rock to find their own piece of gold. Located just 35 miles from Denver, the Capital Prize Gold Mine offers a memorable and educational experience for all ages. It's a chance to step back in time and appreciate the hard work and determination of the miners who shaped Colorado's history.