Argo Gold Mine & Mill is a national historic site located about 45 minutes from Denver. Year-round tours are led by experienced guides and cover the tunnel, the mine, and the mill. There is a live demonstration of crushing, milling, and rock drilling.
It began in 1893 with the construction of the Argo Tunnel. After 17 years it reached Central City, about 4.5 miles away. The tunnel provided a way of transporting the gold from many mines along the way.
Gold Mine, Mill, and Tunnel Tours
Argo’s Mill was constructed to process the gold-bearing ore being transported from the mines. When it was completed, the Argo Mill was the world’s largest mill of its kind. It processed over 100 million dollars of gold ore at prices of $18 to $35 per ounce.
Tours last about an hour, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket. Afterward, the tour everyone on the tour gets to try their hand at gold panning. Keep any gems you find. You can also buy miners’ bags of dirt, with guaranteed placer gold and gemstones.
Details
Address: 2350 Riverside Dr, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
Phone: 303-567-2421
Season: Year-round, weather permitting
Hours: Daily 9 am – 6 pm, the last tour at 4:30 pm
Website: argomilltour.com