15 Awesome Things to do in Idaho Springs with Kids
Idaho Springs, Colorado is often known by locals as a pit stop on the way up to the mountains or, at least, where to grab some Colorado-style pizza at Beau Jo’s. While even for us that was the thinking for many years, we’ve come to appreciate this little mountain gateway town. Over the years and combined with another recent trips, we’ve founds so many great things to do in Idaho Springs with kids.
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We thoroughly enjoyed our time in this underrated mountain town and hope to show that there are so many family activities in Idaho Springs, just a short drive away from Denver.
So read on for the best things to do in Idaho Springs for families so you can plan your next trip with confidence that it’s going to be great!
Table of Contents
1. Rafting down Clear Creek
Going rafting in Idaho Springs was our #1 activity we wanted to do, and it definitely was the highlight of our trip. We went with this rafting trip, which allowed kids to join in on a more mild experience.
The rapids went from class I to class III. While the kids seemed a little nervous at first, they quickly changed their mood to joy after the first little bump.
Being able to raft along the mountain sides, past old gold mine openings, and past the water wheel was a pretty cool experience. The kids loved it, everyone stayed safe, and it was the perfect way to stay cool during the hot summer days.
Need more convincing? Read my full review of rafting in Idaho Springs.
2. Zip Lining
The same company also offers zip line tours. Kids 6 and up can participate as well and soar across the line and along cliffs. You can even choose a family member to race on the dual race zip line!
We have zip lining near us at home at a large city park area. And while that’s cool to have something so close, zip lining is so much cooler and more fun when you’ve got a scenic area to do so.
Enjoy view of the continental divide as you fly through the air safely. Guides provide instruction and safety gear to make this a great experience for the whole family.
3. Ropes Course
Ropes courses are always a fun family activity. This Sky Trek is one of the most unique, fun things to do in Idaho Springs with kids as it will allow kids as young as 4 to join in the fun.
You can (and probably have before) spot this ropes course right off I-70. The great thing is that it’s still among the trees and river with great views despite the highway.
The whole family can enjoy obstacles in safe harnesses as you make your way up to 50 feet in the sky. Enjoy 60 obstacles to challenge yourself among the trees on this aerial ropes course. You’ll have the option to choose easy, medium, or hard routes along the course.
4. St. Mary’s Glacier
While many people claim that Hanging Lake over in Glenwood Springs is the most beautiful hike in Colorado (and I can’t argue), I would say that St. Mary’s Glacier is among the most beautiful endings of a hike.
The hike itself is rocky, but short and easy enough for families of all ages.
But once you arrive, just about a half-mile later, WOW. Before you even arrive at the glacier, you’ll be welcomed by a beautiful lake that is scenic beyond measure. Find a nice place to sit with a snack or packed lunch (packing everything out, of course).
Then continue on to the glacier area beyond the lake to find snow all year long.
5. Drive up Mount Blue Sky
Formerly known as Mount Evans, the drive up Mount Blue Sky is beautiful and a bit of a bucket list item. When you get the to the top, you can officially say you have been to the top of a 14er (what Coloradans call mountains with peaks at 14,000+ foot elevation).
The top of Mount Blue Sky welcomes visitors and mountain goats alike. Enjoy walking through remnants of The Crest House, aka the Castle in the Sky. Then finish with a short (but thin-aired) hike up to the very peak of the mountain for 360 views.
6. Visit The Charlie Tayler Water Wheel (and Waterfall)
Few people probably actually know what this water wheel is about. You can see it every time you drive by on I-70 as it is just off the highway against the mountain wall and next to Bridal Veil Falls (not to be confused with the tallest waterfall in Colorado down in Telluride with the same name).
From downtown Idaho Springs, an easy path takes you down under the highway and to the other side where you can view the water wheel and learn its history.
7. Walk Miner Street
Miner Street, Idaho Springs’ main street, is the heart of the historic district in town. This is the place to hang out each day to get a feel for this great mountain town.
Since 2020, the heart of Miner Street has been blocked off to cars, making it a safe place to walk free, shop, and eat.
Many restaurants have been able to expand their seating area into the street, and many have also set up fun games and play areas. Depending on where you dine, you’ll be able to enjoy cornhole, giant Jenga, or even little playhouses for the kids.
The district boasts a variety of shops like homemade soaps at The Soap Shop, great gifts and souvenirs at Margie’s Place, ice cream and toys at Sit-N-Chill, and so many other great, local shops.
Dogs are welcomed among the outdoor areas and many shops will even have water bowls outside their door.
8. Eat at Beau Jo’s
Beau Jo’s is a Colorado classic. You’ve heard of New York Pizza, Chicago Pizza, and even Detroit Pizza. But have you heard of Colorado Pizza?
Beau Jo’s is the quintessential Colorado pizza joint, making pies from thick, braided crust in order to keep all the delicious toppings on.
At Beau Jo’s, you’ll also get a bottle of honey on the table to dip the sweet crust in after you finish the cheesy section.
Beau Jo’s has limited locations across the state, so make sure to stop and eat here while you visit Idaho Springs.
9. Echo Lake
This gorgeous lake is on the way up to Mount Blue Sky. Luckily, it is before you reach the ranger station, so you won’t need a permit/reservation to stop.
Unfortunately, there is limited parking, so you may be trying your lucky on a weekend or otherwise busy time.
But if you can manage a parking spot, get out and walk around this beautiful lake. You’ll feel like you’ve escaped to the mountains without having a strenuous hike.
10. Historical Society and Visitor Center
My newfound love of visitor centers has mandated that I always suggest to others to stop here. The Historical Society and Visitor Center are combined in one building in Idaho Springs, just a short walk from the historic district.
You can browse through the museum for just a couple dollars or meander through the gift shop for free. The gift shop is filled with handmade items from local artisans.
The Museum offers a look at local artifacts that contribute to the towns mining history, geology, and local wildlife.
11. Visit the Narrow Gauge Steam Engine
Right along the path that heads under the highway you’ll come to the Narrow Gauge Steam Engine on display.
Engine No. 60 began as No. 263 on the Utah and Northern Railroad. It got transfered in 1890 to the Denver, Leadville, and Gunnison Railroad where it becane No. 60.
12. Indian Hot Springs
Usually I put hot spring toward the top of the list. We didn’t visit these ones, so I can’t vouch for it. BUT, many people search for hot springs as they go into the mountains of Colorado.
Indian Hot Springs has decent and mixed reviews, but we decided to make other activities a priority. But if hot springs are a priority for you, it might be worth a stop.
Indian Hot Springs are known as the closest hot springs to Denver, making them popular thanks to their convenience and accessibility.
These springs are a mix of indoor pool, caves, and a spa. You’ll find that the rates are more affordable than other popular hot springs in the state for soaking in the mineral pool.
13. Argo Mill Mine Tour or Phoenix Gold Mine
Both are great mining tours. You can reserve a tour ahead of time at Argo Mill or at the Phoenix Gold Mine. They also both offer walk-ins (first-come first-served).
Argo is the big red mine that you can spot off I-70 as you drive by. Phoenix is farther along the highway, but not visible.
Learn the history of mining in the area and have the chance to do some gold panning of your own at both places.
14. Chief Mountain Trail
Chief Mountain Trail is located south of Idaho Springs. You’ll head down the same road you would to get to Echo Lake, but take a left shortly after the lake instead of heading up to Mount Blue Sky.
The trail takes you through the partially-forested wilderness and up into the tundra. Kids that enjoy hiking will love this trail which stays slightly under 3 miles round-trip.
You can find the trailhead not far from Echo Mountain ski resort off CO-103. Watch for pull-outs to park in.
The trailhead starts over 10,000 feet and goes up another 1,000 over the course of the trail. Bring more water than you think you’ll need and some snacks. Take your time and enjoy the trail!
15. Courtney Ryley Cooper Park
It’s always good to find a playground when you travel. If you’re looking for a good, classic playground in Idaho Springs, the kids will have a great time at this one.
Cooper Park is located right along Clear Creek as it runs through Idaho Springs. It’s a great place to hang out by the water and watch the rafters go by.
There is also a great playground that will keep the kids occupied and happy for a long time. You’ll get a few picnic tables with nearby tree shade, bathrooms, and great green space for running around.
Where to Stay in Idaho Springs
I can hands-down recommend you book your stay at The Club Hotel in Idaho Springs. This historic building has gone through renovations that keep its historic charm. It’s a short walk (like 1 minute!) from Miner Street, where all the action is in town. The service is great, the rooms are great… you can read all about it here in my Club Hotel Idaho Springs Review.
Best Things to do in Idaho Springs with Kids: Wrap Up
We had such a blast doing most of these fun activities in Idaho Springs with the kids. Rafting was definitely a highlight (and my most recommended!) Next I would make sure to get to St. Mary’s and Mount Blue Sky. Then fill in the time with all the close, local things to do in Idaho Springs in town.
I hope that if you had the view I once had of Idaho Springs, that it’s kind of a boring town with nothing to do, that I’ve shown you how incredibly fun the town is and that it’s anything but boring.
Next time you head to the mountains, make a stop on the way and try one of these fun activities in Idaho Springs for families. You won’t regret it!
