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Cripple Creek: A Historic Gold Mining Town

Discover Cripple Creek, Colorado: A historic gold mining town with casinos, stunning scenery, and a taste of the Wild West.

Cripple Creek, Colorado, is a historic gold mining town that boomed in the 1890s, attracting thousands to the western side of Pikes Peak. Today, it's a blend of old west charm, lively casinos, and stunning mountain scenery.

A brief summary to Cripple Creek

Local tips

  • Explore the Cripple Creek District Museum to delve into the town's rich mining history.
  • Take a ride on the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad for scenic mountain views.
  • Visit the Outlaws and Lawmen Jail Museum for a glimpse into the Wild West's rougher side.
  • Try your luck at one of Cripple Creek's casinos, open 24 hours a day.
  • Keep an eye out for the wild donkeys that roam the streets from mid-May to mid-October.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Colorado Springs, take US-24 west and turn left onto CO-67 south towards Cripple Creek. Continue for approximately 18 miles. Follow signs for parking in designated lots on 4th Street or Bennett Avenue. Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak season or events. Consider arriving early or using available shuttle services from local hotels. Parking at the City of Cripple Creek Parking Lot at 350 E Bennett Ave is available. Expect to pay around $5-$10 for parking depending on the lot and duration.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't direct public transportation from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek, regional transportation options are available. Consider using the Teller Senior Coalition or Envida for connections to Cripple Creek. Once in Cripple Creek, the Cripple Creek Trolley provides transportation to various points of interest within the town. The Cripple Creek Bus also offers service between Cripple Creek and Victor. A one-way fare on the Cripple Creek Bus is approximately $2.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have limited availability in Cripple Creek. If you plan to use a ride-sharing service, be prepared for potentially longer pickup times and limited availability, especially during off-peak hours. A short trip within Cripple Creek might cost around $15-$25, but prices can vary depending on demand and distance.

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Discover more about Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek, nestled near the base of Pikes Peak, is a captivating journey into Colorado's gold rush history. Established in 1890, it became the site of the last great mining boom in the state, drawing fortune seekers to Poverty Gulch after Bob Womack's discovery of gold. The town quickly transformed, with thousands flocking to the area, leading to the establishment of infrastructure and the creation of Teller County. Cripple Creek's gold rush era saw the rise of millionaires and the construction of elaborate buildings, many of which still stand today. The town faced challenges, including devastating fires in 1896, but it rebuilt and continued to thrive into the early 20th century. After World War II, as mining declined, Cripple Creek reinvented itself as a tourist destination. In the early 1990s, the introduction of legalized gambling breathed new life into Cripple Creek, revitalizing the economy and preserving its historic buildings. Today, visitors can explore the town's rich history through museums, a narrow-gauge railroad, and even a descent into an old gold mine. The town's casinos offer 24-hour entertainment, and the surrounding scenery provides opportunities for scenic drives and outdoor activities. Don't be surprised to see the wild donkeys roaming the streets, a reminder of the town's wild west past.

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