Cripple Creek: A Historic Gold Mining Town

Discover Cripple Creek, Colorado: Where Wild West history meets casino thrills in a stunning mountain setting.

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Cripple Creek, Colorado, is a historic gold mining town that boomed in the 1890s, attracting thousands seeking fortune on the western flank of Pikes Peak. Today, it blends its Wild West charm with lively casinos and stunning mountain scenery, offering visitors a unique glimpse into its rich mining heritage.

A brief summary to Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek, Colorado, US
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Local tips

Explore the town's history beyond the casinos by visiting the Cripple Creek District Museum and the Outlaws and Lawmen Jail Museum.
Take a ride on the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad for a scenic tour through the mountains.
Check out the annual events calendar for family-friendly activities like the Cripple Creek Ice Festival and Donkey Derby Days.
Be aware that services like Uber and Lyft are not reliably available in Cripple Creek.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum

Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum: A Glimpse into Cripple Creek's Wild West Past

Cripple Creek District Museum

Cripple Creek District Museum: A Glimpse into the Gold Rush

Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

Getting There

Driving

From Colorado Springs, take US-24 west towards Divide. Turn left onto CO-67 south and continue for approximately 18 miles to Cripple Creek. Parking is available in designated lots and on Bennett Avenue. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Driving from Denver will take you around 2 hours and 30 minutes via US-24 E. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $5-$10 for hourly parking in lots close to Bennett Avenue.
Public Transport

From Colorado Springs, you can take a Bustang bus to the Colorado Springs Downtown Station. From there, transfer to a taxi or rideshare service for the final leg to Cripple Creek. Alternatively, Ramblin Express offers shuttle services from Colorado Springs and Woodland Park directly to Cripple Creek's Triple Crown Casinos. A taxi from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek typically costs between $120 and $200. Bus tickets from Denver to Colorado Springs range from $11 to $16.

Discover more about Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek, nestled near the base of Pikes Peak, is a captivating destination that beautifully preserves its vibrant gold mining past. Established in 1890, the town experienced a significant boom after Bob Womack's discovery of gold, drawing prospectors and transforming it into a bustling hub. Over two decades, more than 500 mines yielded over 22 million ounces of gold. Cripple Creek's rich history is palpable in its Victorian-era buildings, museums, and attractions. Visitors can explore the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, descending 1,000 feet underground, or ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, enjoying scenic mountain views. The District Museum and the Jail Museum offer further insights into the town's past. After enduring fires and a dwindling population, Cripple Creek was revived through legalized gambling in 1991. Today, casinos operate within many of the historic buildings, providing revenue for the town and the State Historical Fund. This blend of history and entertainment, combined with its stunning natural surroundings, makes Cripple Creek a unique and memorable destination.

Explore the best of what Cripple Creek has to offer

More about Pikes Peak

File:Pikes Peak summit view 1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore Pikes Peak in Colorado: A majestic 14,115-foot mountain offering scenic drives, historic railways, and thrilling outdoor adventures all year round.

Tell me more about Pikes Peak

Discover Victorian elegance at Miramont Castle Museum in Manitou Springs, a unique architectural blend with historical exhibits and a charming tea room.

Explore Cripple Creek's notorious past at the Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, housed in the original Teller County Jail. A chilling and historic experience.