Idaho Springs

Colorado’s first gold was discovered here, and it is said that the Gold Rush originated in Idaho Springs. Visitors can explore the area’s rich history through tours of the Argo Mill and Tunnel and Phoenix Gold Mine and relax in the notable Indian Hot Springs. The town also boasts several unique and local restaurants you will want to check out after your outdoor adventure!

IDAHO SPRINGS, CO

Nestled in the mountains alongside Clear Creek, Idaho Springs offers whitewater rafting for all levels of adventure seekers, or for a different perspective, try ziplining or our unique Via Ferrata course. Check out the areas’ hiking trails, all within easy reach of the town’s famous hot springs, perfect for soaking your muscles after a day of exploration.

Explore Idaho Springs

Top Trips

Idaho Springs has become a hidden gem for mountain recreation. Its convenient location, dramatic scenery, and some of the best mountain experiences in Colorado make it easy to spend the entire day exploring the outdoors. We offer Whitewater Rafting on the Clear Creek for all ages and ability levels, and thrilling Cliffside Zipline and Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata trips. We additionally provide adventure packages, so you can maximize your time and participate in multiple adventure experiences!

Woman on our Upper Clear Creek Via Ferrata course.
Heart Pounding
Best for a Full Day of Thrills

Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day + Via Ferrata

Spend your day venturing through the mountains on with this thrilling combo of activities! You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself on the water [...]

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Gold Rush rafting trip.
Exciting & Active
Best for Adventurers of All Ages

Clear Creek Gold Rush + Zipline Package

 
Join us on one of our best family trips, and experience Colorado fun on the river and in the air. From our Idaho Springs [...]

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Family on an AVA rafting trip.
Exciting & Active
Most Popular - Great for Kids

Gold Rush Clear Creek Rafting Adventure

 
Splash down the Clear Creek mining valley on our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip. Just a short half-hour trip from Denver, this family-friendly rafting [...]

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Person on a Via Ferrata course.
Thrilling & Very Active
Best for Cliffside Thrills

Mount Blue Sky, Colorado Via Ferrata

Get your heart up on one of our most daring adventure trips! On our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course, you will traverse the [...]

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Exciting & Active
Best for Families with Kids

Cliffside Zipline Half Day

Idaho Springs, Colorado
 

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Leisurely
Best for All Ages and Abilities

Georgetown Loop Train Ride

Only 45 minutes from Denver, Colorado in Idaho Springs, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers an exciting and historical opportunity to experience Colorado history. Ride [...]

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Clear Creek Rafting

Experience the best of Colorado rafting just a short 30-minute drive from Denver with Clear Creek. Our Idaho Springs outpost provides convenient access to exhilarating Whitewater Rafting experiences for all skill levels and ages.

As you embark on your Clear Creek rafting journey, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Idaho Springs and its mining valley. Navigate exciting rapids, while immersing yourself in Colorado’s beautiful and historic landscape. Be sure to take your eyes off the river just long enough to keep an eye out for local wildlife!

Clear Creek Trips

For a family-friendly introduction to rafting, our 1/3 day Clear Creek Gold Rush takes you on a milder journey through class III rapids, offering a thrilling adventure suitable for all ages.

For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, our Upper Clear Creek 1/2 day trip is the perfect choice, as you encounter steeper technical sections of class IV rapids, while our Lower Canyon 1/2 day trip provides an introductory option to challenging class V whitewater that will get your heart racing. If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for an intense and exciting adventure, our Phoenix trip is the ultimate option. This full-day advanced excursion covers 20 miles of non-stop thrills and unforgettable moments at every twist and turn!

Idaho Springs Ziplining

AVA Rafting & Zipline is located in the heart of Idaho Springs with our Cliffside Zipline course incorporated into the cliff side. On our course, you will experience a hanging bridge, log cross, and dual race lines!

Idaho Springs Via Ferrata

We also offer an exciting Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course at our Idaho Springs outpost! Climb high into the cliffside above the Chicago Creek and even swing on several lines of our zipline course. This unique assisted climbing adventure allows you to traverse the cliffside with the help of iron bars, rungs, and other features built into the mountainside.

Explore Idaho Springs Adventures

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Family on an AVA rafting trip.
Exciting & Active
Best for Families with Kids

Lower Eagle

The Eagle River whitewater rafting experience offers a variety of paddling for all levels of boating, and the Lower Eagle is the perfect Colorado [...]

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Fun & Mellow
Best to Get Started with Fly Fishing

Arkansas Valley Never-Ever Half Day Fly Fishing

The perfect introduction to fly fishing. Get an orientation and test your skills on the iconic Arkansas River in central Colorado.

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Fun & Mellow
Best for First-Time Anglers

Arkansas Valley Never-Ever Full Day Fly Fishing

Come discover the magnetism of fly fishing in Colorado! Endless riffles, runs, pools, and overhanging brush – the Arkansas River is one of Colorado’s [...]

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Family on an AVA rafting trip.
Splashy & Moderate
Best for Families with Kids

Shoshone

Shoshone Rapids half day takes you through Colorado’s amazing Glenwood Canyon, which is just outside of Glenwood Springs. A must-see destination for any Colorado [...]

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Wild & High Exertion
Best for Thrill Seekers

Royal Gorge Half Day

The Royal Gorge ½ Day Trip offers a thrilling whitewater adventure on the Arkansas River that is sure to excite everyone from experienced rafters [...]

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River rafting in Browns Canyon, Colorado.
Heart Pounding
Best for a Day of Thrills

Royal Gorge Full Day

Spend a day in the scenic Royal Gorge! One of the most renowned white water rafting trips in Colorado, this section will take you [...]

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Family on an AVA rafting trip.
Exciting & Active
Best for Families

Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half Day

Wanting to experience the Royal Gorge from a different perspective? After your day of rafting, take a ride on the Royal Gorge Railroad, where [...]

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Best for Keeping Your Options Open

Gift Certificates

Give the gift of adventure with Gift Certificates from AVA Rafting & Zipline! We get it – it’s just so easy to send another [...]

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Discover Idaho Springs

Rafters on the Arkansas River.

The Closest River to Idaho Springs

Clear Creek runs right through Idaho Springs, and we offer class III – V rafting along with other adventures at our conveniently located outpost in town.

The Closest Outpost to Idaho Springs

Our nearest outpost is located right in the town of Idaho Springs. Here, guests can also try out a zipline and Via Ferrata course.

Colorado Whitewater Rafting Trips

Beginners and Families

We recommend our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip! This whitewater experience will still take you on the best of Clear Creek, while providing a milder introduction to rafting through gentler class III rapids.

Thrill-Seekers

For a more advanced trip, check out our Phoenix full day adventure. This trip covers 20 miles of exhilarating whitewater and includes a riverside barbeque lunch!

AVA's Favorite Restaurants

Here are a few of our favorite places to find some delicious grub or a post-paddle beer.

  • The Frothy Cup for coffee before your trip.
  • Tommyknocker Brewery
  • Smokin’ Yards BBQ
  • Beau Jo’s Pizza
  • Two Brothers Deli
  • Westound & Down Brewery / The Buffalo

Historic Downtown Idaho Springs:

Take a stroll through historic downtown Idaho Springs and explore its charming shops, galleries, and restaurants. Discover local artisans, browse unique boutiques, and sample delicious cuisine at one of the town’s eateries. Don’t miss attractions like the Argo Mill and Tunnel, where you can tour a historic gold mine and learn about Idaho Springs’ mining heritage.

St. Mary's Glacier

Embark on a scenic hike to St. Mary’s Glacier, located just a short drive from Idaho Springs. This popular trail leads to a stunning alpine lake and glacier nestled amidst the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, wildflower-filled meadows, and crystal-clear waters as you hike to the glacier. The trail offers a moderate challenge suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at the Indian Hot Springs, located just outside of Idaho Springs. These natural hot springs offer a tranquil retreat with geothermal mineral water pools, soothing soaking tubs, and therapeutic steam caves. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures or simply seeking relaxation amidst nature, the Indian Hot Springs provide a serene oasis for visitors to enjoy.

Group picture following zipline adventure.

Idaho Springs Location

Idaho Springs is situated in the scenic Clear Creek Canyon, nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains. Its central location along Interstate 70, approximately 30 miles west of Denver, makes it easily accessible for visitors traveling from both the Denver metropolitan area and other mountain destinations

Next Colorado Vacation Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs History

Idaho Springs has a rich history dating back to the Colorado Gold Rush of the mid-19th century when gold was discovered in the area by George A. Jackson in 1859. This discovery led to a significant influx of prospectors and settlers, transforming Idaho Springs into a bustling mining town. The town thrived as a hub for gold and silver mining, with numerous mines operating in the surrounding mountains.

Idaho Springs Colorado Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting

Best Time to Raft

The best time to raft the Clear Creek in Idaho Springs is May through September.

Idaho Springs Colorado Cliffside Zipline Tour

Idaho Springs Activites

Idaho Springs offers rafting, ziplining, and Via Ferrata adventures perfect for all ages 6 and up. Join us for a 1/3 day, half-day, or full-day adventure!