Underground Mining Museum - Creede, CO

The Underground Mining Museum offers a remarkable glimpse into Creede’s rich mining past. The museum was ‘mined’ out of the mountainside in the early 1990s, a few years after Creede’s last mine closed in 1985.

Started by three miners, hired help and volunteers finished the job off, creating 600 feet of drift with almost two dozen displays. Hosting over 45,000 visitors since its opening, guided tours are held during the summer season by retired miners. Learn about mining equipment and methods, including blasting, blacksmithing, mucking, and assaying.

There is also old equipment in the museum that was once used in the mines as well as newer technology, showing the transformation of the industry. If you’re interested in learning more about the museum during the winter, audio tours are offered.

Besides the museum, there is a community center on-site that can be reserved for parties and weddings. It also hosts events throughout the year including a fourth of July cookout, the Creede Rock and Mineral Show, and the Silver Thread Quilt Show. Besides the community center, there is a gift store with jewelry, gems, postcards, and other souvenirs.

Getting There

The museum is located at the end of downtown. Take Main Street until you reach the museum in less than a minute. If you continue past the museum you’ll reach the Bachelor Historic Loop, a must-visit, especially if you go to the museum.

For more on Creede’s colorful past, make sure you stop by the visitor center and the Creede Historic Museum.