Empire, Colorado

Empire is a tiny town most commonly passed on-route to/from Winter Park. It’s located just west of Idaho Springs near the start of Berthoud Pass. Although small, it’s packed full of gems and reasons to stop.

Many of its treasures are restaurants. The Lewis Sweet Shop has terrific food and atmosphere. Or stop by Guanella Pass Brewery at their Empire location.

History

The town was founded in 1860 during the mining boom and prospered. After the bust the town declined. Today about 350 people live in town.

Main Attractions

Highway 40 Berthoud Pass CO — Highway 40 on Berthoud Pass. Photo: Barry Poole

Berthoud Pass – This year round pass takes you up over the Continental Divide to Winter Park & Fraser. On pass activities include backcountry skiing in the winter, and hiking and biking during warmer seasons.

Recreation

Berthoud Pass Trailhead Colorado — Berthoud Pass Trailhead. Photo: Melanie

Camping:

There are a few national forest campgrounds just over the Berthoud Pass before Winter Park. They are open seasonally, usually sometime in May to October.
Dispersed camping can be found just out of Georgetown on the Guanella Pass. These spots are free and primitive, but there’s also a couple paid campgrounds on this side of the pass, with some amenities.
Read about the camping near Empire, around Jones Pass.

Fishing:

Back out on I-70 Clear Creek flows toward the Front Range. There is awesome trout fishing at several points. The best thing to do is hop on Frontage Road near Georgetown Lake and just head east.

Hiking: