4.7(47 reviews)
Colorado Gold Rush Mountain and Mine Tour
From$99
5 hours
Denver, USA
About this activity
Discover Colorado's rich mining history on a guided tour through historic towns, an authentic gold mine, and a gold panning experience, all set against stunning mountain landscapes.
Highlights
- Explore historic mining towns
- Tour an authentic gold mine
- Experience gold panning
- Learn about Colorado's gold rush
- Enjoy scenic mountain views
Full description
Step back in time and immerse yourself in Colorado's gold rush era on this half-day adventure. Your journey begins with a guided tour through historic mining towns, where you'll uncover tales of fortune seekers and pioneers. Next, venture into an authentic gold mine, exploring its tunnels and learning about the mining techniques of the past. The excitement continues with a hands-on gold panning experience, giving you a taste of the thrill that once captivated thousands. Throughout the tour, enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas that showcase Colorado's natural beauty. This excursion offers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and scenic splendor, making it an unforgettable addition to your Denver visit.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of historic mining towns
- Visit to an authentic gold mine
- Gold panning experience
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
Meet at the flagpole in front of historic Union Station on Wynkoop Street located in lower downtown Denver.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Pass by: Drive up into the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado and follow the footsteps of the pioneers and miners on their quest for a new life and trying to strike it rich. See wonderful mountain views and rugged canyons.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Pass by: Travel through this beautiful rugged mountain canyon following Clear Creek and the gold rush trail of 1859. Look for Bighorn Sheep on the steep canyon walls and rock climbers.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
Walk down the historic streets of Central City, what was once considered the richest square mile on earth during the 1859 Pikes Peak or Bust Gold Rush Days. Visit a real ghost town from the boom times.
Duration: 40 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
Take a tour in a real gold mine. Learn about old and new mining techniques. Experience what it was like to be a hard rock miner back in the 1860's in Colorado. * Either the Phoenix or Capitol Prize Mine will be visited but not both*
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
6
Visit Idaho Springs where the Victorian architecture of the mining days still stands. Grab a drink in the local brewery or shop in one of the local stores or just admire the history that surrounds you in this quaint historic mountain town. *Please note either Idaho Springs or Georgetown will be visited but not both. Town is dertermined by mine schedule availability*
Duration: 25 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Go more than 1,000 feet into this fully operational historic gold and silver mine. See and experience the historic and modern day mining techniques. Your guide will teach you all about this important part of Colorado's colorful history. Try your hand at striking it rich and keep your findings. * Either the Phoenix or Capitol Prize Mine will be visited but not both*
Duration: 1h 15mAdmission: YES
8
Walk down the Historic street of Georgetown once one of the wealthiest mining towns in Colorado. The historic buildings have been well preserved and house many local stores and not to be missed the delicious Georgetown Candy Company. *Please note either Idaho Springs or Georgetown will be visited but not both. Town is dertermined by mine schedule availability*
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
End you tour back where it began at historic Union Station located in lower downtown Denver
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
Denver Union Station, Wynkoop Street, Denver, CO, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- The tour involves walking and may include uneven terrain; appropriate footwear is recommended.
- Check the weather forecast for the day of your tour to dress accordingly.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and outdoor activities.
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque mountain landscapes and historic sites.
- Consider bringing a light jacket, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation in the unlikely event there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
- We will walk into the mine on the tour, not recommended for anyone that is claustrophobic
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and bring a jacket for inside the mine
- Some places in the mine can be a little muddy please wear shoes that clean up easily
- Please eat breakfast or lunch prior to your tour pick up time
- Only 1 mine will be visited in either Idaho Springs or Georgetown not both
Traveler reviews
4.747 reviews
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Will is great tour guide....
Will is great tour guide. The copilot and I loved it. We saw so many places and old mines. Very informative.
Thomas_GMay 14, 2026VIATOR
Great for history buffs!
Hans, our tour guide, was a retired school teacher. He was very personable, knowledgeable, and friendly. He frequently checked in to make sure everyone in the tour group was having fun, comfortable, and take care of. The tour was fantastic, the mine and panning for gold were wonderful as well. Definitely a must-do for anyone even tangentially interested in history, geology, or learning about the state!
Tiffany_CApr 16, 2026VIATOR
Worthwhile excursion
Worth seeing tour with lots of experiences and information. The tour guide knew well and has been able to report a lot of historical
Gabriele_HApr 4, 2026VIATOR
Worth tobdo it. Kid friendly
Colorado Sightseer was incredibly reliable and responsive to our inquiries. Christine on the WhatsApp line was super helpful, clarifying our doubts and efficiently handling our bookings for the Golden Mine tour and Red Rocks tour. Our tour guides, Matt and Stephen, were outstanding - knowledgeable, engaging, and made the trip a blast! 😊 Both tours were totally kid-friendly, with convenient stops for hydration, washrooms, and photo ops. Highly recommend!
nelsonjaviergMar 31, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Amazing Mine Tour
Alex did an amazing job and kept us entertained with conversation and facts. It made the rude to and from go by so quickly. The actual mine tour was great very informative and entertaining too. I would highly recommend this tour especially if you are interested in gold mining.
rljones747Dec 30, 2025TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation in the unlikely event there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
We will walk into the mine on the tour, not recommended for anyone that is claustrophobic
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and bring a jacket for inside the mine
Some places in the mine can be a little muddy please wear shoes that clean up easily
Please eat breakfast or lunch prior to your tour pick up time