Quick Info
Options: Hot springs lodge, motels, vacation rentals. Advantage: Closest lodging to Denver on I-70. Best for: Early ski starts, Mount Evans trips. Character: Practical, not fancy.
Idaho Springs isn't a destination for luxury lodging—it's a practical base for I-70 corridor activities. Staying here puts you 30 minutes closer to the ski resorts than Denver, and right at the base of Mount Evans. The lodging is modest but serves its purpose.
The main reason to stay: Indian Hot Springs includes overnight accommodations. Soak in the evening, soak again in the morning, then head to the mountains. It's a unique package unavailable elsewhere on the Front Range.
Indian Hot Springs Resort
The obvious choice if hot springs are your priority. The historic resort offers rooms and a lodge with included springs access.
Rooms: Basic to rustic. Don't expect modern amenities—this is a historic property.
Advantage: Unlimited hot springs access during your stay. Evening and morning soaks.
Atmosphere: Authentic 1860s resort character. Part of the appeal is the history.
Motels & Hotels
Several motels line the main road through town and near I-70. Standard highway lodging—clean, functional, affordable.
Character: Basic. Don't expect resort quality. These are practical options for travelers needing a bed.
Pricing: Generally cheaper than Summit County or Denver. Value option for budget travelers.
Amenities: Varies. Some have pools, continental breakfast. Check individual properties.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals expand options, especially for groups. Cabins and houses available through standard platforms.
Mountain cabins: Some properties offer more scenic, remote settings outside town.
In-town rentals: Walking distance to Miner Street dining.
Value: Can be good value for families and groups compared to multiple hotel rooms.
Nearby Alternatives
Georgetown
15 minutes further on I-70. More charming Victorian setting. B&Bs and small hotels. Better ambiance, slightly further from Denver.
Denver/Golden
More hotel options, more dining, more activities. Trade convenience for driving time to mountains.
Summit County
If skiing is the goal, consider staying closer to the slopes. Frisco, Silverthorne, Dillon offer more lodging variety.
Tips
Book Indian Hot Springs for the experience. The rooms aren't fancy, but combining lodging with springs is unique.
Check ski traffic. Winter weekends see I-70 jams. Staying here means you're ahead of Denver traffic heading to slopes.
Lower expectations. This isn't a resort town. Lodging is practical, not luxurious.
Consider a Denver or Golden hotel. If ambiance matters, better options exist 30 minutes east with more dining and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stay at Indian Hot Springs?
If hot springs are a priority, yes. The included access and unique experience are worth the basic rooms. Otherwise, standard hotels work fine.
Is Idaho Springs a good base for skiing?
It's cheaper than Summit County but you'll still drive 45-60 minutes to ski. Better for those prioritizing hot springs recovery.
How far in advance should I book?
Indian Hot Springs can fill on weekends. Motels usually have availability. Book a few weeks ahead for peak periods.
Are there nice restaurants nearby?
Miner Street has casual options. Nothing fancy. For better dining, Georgetown or Denver offer more variety.
Is it noisy from I-70?
Properties near the highway can have traffic noise. Downtown locations are quieter.