Explore Colorado’s Historic Argo Gold Mine + Mill

Colorado is full of remnants from the rich mining history attached to its early days, but most of the old, abandoned mines that are still around are off-limits to the public.

Read More: Exploring Colorado's Mining History At Creede Museum |

However, there are a few that actually offer tours, including the iconic Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs.

Take a Virtual Tour of the Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs, Colorado

If you've driven through Idaho Springs by way of I-70, you've undoubtedly noticed the massive, dark red structure on the side of the hill in the distance that bears the word 'ARGO.'

The Argo Gold Mine and Mill was a massive mining and milling operation until it closed in 1943, but guided tours are still offered today.

Keep scrolling to take a virtual tour of the Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs, Colorado:

What Happened to the Argo Gold Mine and Mill in Idaho Springs, Colorado?

The Argo Gold Mine and Mill was once one of the largest operations of its kind in the world, producing an amount of gold that would be worth over a trillion dollars today if adjusted for inflation.

Get our free mobile app

However, a major hydraulic accident forced the mine to close in 1943, and because of a moratorium on gold related to World War II, it never resumed operations.

Today, the mine, mill, and tunnel are not just reminders of the state's early days, but serve as an educational look into Colorado's past.