Quick Info
Location: 2350 Riverside Drive, Idaho Springs. Features: Mine tour, gold panning, museum. Season: Open daily spring through fall. Duration: 1-2 hours. Best for: Families, history buffs.
The Argo Gold Mine and Mill was one of Colorado's most important mining operations, processing ore from dozens of mines throughout the region. The famous Argo Tunnel stretched over four miles through the mountains to Central City, creating an underground highway for moving ore and draining water from the mines.
Today the mill operates as a museum and tourist attraction, offering guided tours that explain the mining process from extraction to processing. The gold panning experience lets visitors try their luck finding real gold—and yes, there's actually gold in the pay dirt they provide.
Mine Tours
Mill Tour
Guided walk through the historic ore-processing facility. Learn how raw ore became refined gold. See original equipment and hear stories of the miners who worked here. The mill sits against the mountainside with the tunnel entrance visible.
Tunnel View
View the entrance to the famous Argo Tunnel. The four-mile tunnel was an engineering marvel when completed in 1910. A tragic flood in 1943 killed four men and closed the tunnel permanently. The entrance remains as a monument to the era.
Duration
Tours run 30-45 minutes. Combined with gold panning and museum browsing, plan 1-2 hours for the full experience.
Gold Panning
The gold panning experience is the most interactive part of the visit. Staff provide instruction, equipment, and "pay dirt" guaranteed to contain gold. You'll learn the traditional technique of swirling water to separate heavy gold from lighter material.
Keep what you find: The flakes are small but real. Most visitors find enough to take home a visible souvenir.
Good for kids: Gold panning is hands-on and engaging. Kids love the treasure-hunt aspect.
Indoor option: Panning stations are covered, so weather isn't a problem.
History
Gold was discovered in Idaho Springs in 1859, launching Colorado's mining era. The Argo Mill opened in 1913 to process ore from the surrounding mines. The Argo Tunnel connected Idaho Springs to Central City, carrying ore cars and draining water from deep mines.
At its peak, the mill processed thousands of tons of ore monthly. The 1943 flood ended tunnel operations, but the mill continued with ore trucked from other mines. Mining declined through the mid-20th century, and the facility eventually became a museum.
Visiting Info
Hours: Generally open 9 AM to 6 PM, spring through fall. Reduced winter hours or closed. Check before visiting.
Tickets: Admission includes tour and gold panning. Prices vary—check current rates.
Accessibility: The mill is built on multiple levels. Some areas have stairs. Inquire about accessible options.
Gift shop: Mining souvenirs, rocks, minerals, and gold-related items.
Tips
Combine with Miner Street. The mine is minutes from downtown. Walk Miner Street before or after your tour.
Good rainy day activity. Much of the experience is covered or indoors. Works when weather cancels outdoor plans.
Call ahead in shoulder season. Hours vary and winter may see limited openings.
Dress in layers. The mine entrance and panning areas can be cool even in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I find real gold?
Yes. The pay dirt contains actual gold flakes. They're small, but you'll almost certainly find some.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, especially ages 5 and up. Gold panning is engaging, and the tour isn't too long. Younger kids may lose interest in the history parts.
Do you go underground?
No—the tunnel is closed and unsafe. You view the entrance and tour the surface mill.
How long should I plan?
1-2 hours for the full experience. Faster if you skip the museum or panning.
Is it worth the stop?
If you're passing through Idaho Springs, yes. It's a good introduction to Colorado mining history and a fun family activity.