Winter Time in Clear Creek County

Enjoy the Winter Holiday Season

Enjoy the holiday season in the historic mountain communities of Clear Creek. From Idaho Springs to Georgetown, Clear Creek County features unique shops, delicious dining options and endless opportunities to play in the snow-covered mountains. The best part is, it’s all just 20 miles west of Denver. Whether you are coming up for an overnight stay, a day trip or just stopping by on your way through, there’s so much to explore in Idaho Springs, Empire, Georgetown and Silver Plume.

Enjoy Outdoor Winter Adventure Opportunities

Enjoy all of the outdoor winter adventures the beautiful Rocky Mountains have to offer – located just 20 miles west of Denver! Ride the lifts and take advantage of free snowcat skiing at Loveland Ski Area or try out the Denver family favorite ECHO Mountain Resort. There are also other winter recreational activities to enjoy – such as snowshoeing*, snowmobiling*, ATV tours*, ice skating. and another favorite – Ice racing at Georgetown Lake.

*Recreation maps of the County are available at the Georgetown Gateway Visitor Center or Idaho Springs Visitor Center and Heritage Museum.

Soak your cares away in the historic Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs or come see why winter is the best time of year to ride The Georgetown Loop Railroad. Special daytime and evening holiday trains run through early January. These heated and enclosed specialty trains allow children of all ages to enjoy the beautiful views and even provide the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus!

And finally, don’t forget to take a tour of a gold mine or silver mine, or visit one of the many historic sites and museums throughout the County. Self-guided tour booklets are available for purchase at the Georgetown Gateway Visitor Center or Idaho Springs Visitor Center and Heritage Museum.

Winter kayaking on snow.
Margies Place is a fun shop in Clear Creek.

Stay Warm in the Shops

If you are still looking for the perfect gift for that special someone on your list, Clear Creek County is home to many unique shopping options where you can find that one of a kind gift!

Miner Street in Idaho Springs and Georgetown’s Historic District are both home to a variety of shops, boutiques and galleries all full of great gift ideas. But, don’t overlook Empire or Silver Plume!

See a complete list of shopping options available in Clear Creek County.

Find Your Cozy Winter Lodging Retreat

Clear Creek County offers a wide array of lodging options from cozy beds and breakfasts to more traditional hotels and inns so you can pick the perfect place to recharge after all of your adventures.

See a complete list of lodging options and make your plans to stay in Clear Creek County today!

Enjoy the perfect stay at the Silver Lake Lodge.
Georgetown Candy Company is filled with unique sweets.

Unique Restaurant Options

Whether you are looking to grab a quick bite or something more formal, Clear Creek County has you covered! From Idaho Springs to Georgetown, you can find something to satisfy every appetite. You can also find plenty of ice cream and candy shops to indulge your sweet tooth!

See a complete list of dining options in Clear Creek County.

Clear Creek County is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Located just west of Denver along Interstate 70, Clear Creek has 396 square miles of public lands to explore, as well as four mountain peaks above 14,000 feet. Clear Creek is comprised of charming mountains towns Idaho Springs, Downieville, Lawson, Empire, Georgetown, and Silver Plume, which are all along the I-70 corridor. Learn more about Clear Creek County here.