How do I get from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek? Most people drive—it's 45 miles (about 1 hour) via Highway 24 West and Highway 67 South. Limited casino shuttle options exist. No public transit. The scenic mountain drive through Ute Pass is part of the experience.
Route Overview
Distance: 45 miles
Drive time: 55-70 minutes
Route: Highway 24 West to Divide, then Highway 67 South
Elevation: 6,000 feet (Colorado Springs) to 9,500 feet (Cripple Creek)
Cripple Creek is a historic gold mining town turned casino destination, sitting high in the mountains west of Colorado Springs. Unlike Black Hawk (near Denver), there are fewer shuttle options here—most visitors drive. The route through Ute Pass and past Pikes Peak is scenic and worth the trip.
Transportation Options
Driving (Primary Option)
Cost: ~$10-15 gas
Time: 55-70 minutes
Best for: Most visitors
Take Highway 24 West through Ute Pass to Divide, then Highway 67 South to Cripple Creek. Well-maintained roads but mountain driving with curves. Free parking at all casinos. The drive itself is scenic, passing through historic mining territory.
Casino Shuttles
Cost: Varies ($20-40 typical)
Time: 70-90 minutes
Best for: Those who don't want to drive
Some Cripple Creek casinos offer shuttle service from Colorado Springs, though options are more limited than Black Hawk. Check individual casino websites for current schedules:
- Bronco Billy's
- Wildwood Casino
- Midnight Rose
Availability varies—call ahead to confirm schedules and pickup locations.
Rideshare
Cost: $60-100 one-way
Time: 55-70 minutes
Best for: Emergency option, groups
Uber/Lyft available from Colorado Springs but expensive. Very limited availability for return trips from Cripple Creek—don't count on finding a ride back. Only use if you have confirmed return transportation.
Driving Route Details
The Route
- Colorado Springs: Head west on Highway 24 (Cimarron Street becomes 24)
- Ute Pass: Climb through Manitou Springs and Woodland Park
- Divide: Turn south on Highway 67 at the town of Divide
- Cripple Creek: Highway 67 winds down into Cripple Creek
Winter Driving
Both Highway 24 and Highway 67 can be snowy and icy in winter. Highway 67 in particular has some steep sections. Check road conditions before traveling. AWD or snow tires recommended November-April.
About Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek offers a different casino experience than Black Hawk:
- Historic character: Well-preserved Victorian mining town atmosphere
- Smaller scale: More intimate than Black Hawk's large casino buildings
- Victor nearby: Sister mining town 6 miles away, worth exploring
- Donkey herd: Wild donkeys roam the town (descendants of mining-era animals)
- Mollie Kathleen Mine: Tour a real gold mine 1,000 feet underground
Tips
- Make it a day trip: Combine casinos with Cripple Creek history and Victor
- Check casino schedules: Shuttle availability changes seasonally
- Winter caution: Mountain roads can be challenging; check conditions
- Altitude: Cripple Creek is at 9,500 feet—stay hydrated
- Don't drink and drive: If gambling and drinking, arrange non-driving transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cripple Creek or Black Hawk closer to Colorado Springs?
Cripple Creek is much closer—45 miles vs. about 100 miles to Black Hawk. For Colorado Springs visitors, Cripple Creek is the obvious choice.
Are there free shuttles to Cripple Creek?
Fewer than Black Hawk offers. Some casinos run shuttles but service is more limited. Check individual casino websites or call for current availability.
Is the drive to Cripple Creek scenic?
Yes. The route through Ute Pass offers mountain views, and the approach via Highway 67 passes through historic mining country. Many visitors enjoy the drive as part of the trip.