Cripple Creek Bucket List: Don’t Miss This Hidden Colorado Gem

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You may or may have ever heard of Cripple Creek, Colorado. But, you are about to! Although it might not be the most well-known destination in Colorado, it offers a rich tapestry of history and adventure that captivates the soul of every traveler. 

Once the epicenter of a gold rush that transformed the region, today it stands as a vibrant town where echoes of a colorful past meet the thrill of adventure. 

Whether you’re an adventurous spirit, a curious travel enthusiast, or a devoted history buff, Cripple Creek is the ultimate bucket list destination you didn’t know you needed.

After RVing around Cripple Creek as well as being a Colorado native, I was pleasantly surprised with all of the the bucket-list worthy activities there is to do here!

So, behold! The ultimate Cripple Creek bucket list!

Why Cripple Creek?

This living history is the backdrop for a modern-day adventure, making Cripple Creek a true gem for those eager to relive the magic of yesteryears.

Take a Hike in Cripple Creek

Adding hiking in Cripple Creek to your bucket list is a decision that will surely reward you with unforgettable experiences amidst stunning natural beauty. 

The area boasts several remarkable trails, each offering a unique perspective of the Rocky Mountains. 

Horsethief Falls

One of my favorite hikes that I did was the Horsethief Falls Trail. This easy 2.6 mile hike is mostly shaded and ends with a waterfall! 

Crags Trail

For a more intense hike, you can keep going on Crags Trail. Keep an eye out for mushrooms and columbine flowers. This is a hard 14.8 mile hike. 

Pancake Rocks

If you are looking for something unique and interesting, the Pankcake Rocks hike offers stunning rock formations. It is a moderate 6.0 mile hike.

Gold Camp Road

For a more challenging adventure, the Gold Camp Road trail is not to be missed. The mileage depends on where you start.

Mueller State Park Trails

Finally, Mueller State Park trails provide diverse scenery and an abundance of wildflowers in the summer months. There are a wide variety, providing something for everybody!

Explore the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine

A visit to the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine is a journey back in time, providing an authentic glimpse into Colorado’s rich mining history. 

Established in the late 19th century, this gold mine operated and was one of the few mines in the area to offer underground tours. 

Visitors can explore the mine’s fascinating tunnels, equipped with hard hats and lanterns, while knowledgeable guides share captivating stories about the lives of the miners who toiled in the depths below. 

This unique experience not only highlights the significance of gold mining in shaping the region’s economy but also allows guests to appreciate the remarkable engineering feats and hardships faced by those who sought their fortunes underground. 

The combination of historical significance, adventure, and the chance to discover precious minerals makes the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine an essential stop for anyone wanting to delve into Colorado’s storied past.

Not gonna sugarcoat it, this was one of the coolest things in Cripple Creek. It was unique, educational, and adventurous. I thought it was so cool to see the mining machines still in working order. 

Plus, Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is the only vertical mine shaft tour in America!

Best Cripple Creek Casinos

Please enjoy responsibly!

I couldn’t mention Cripple Creek without talking about the most obvious answers: casinos. 

Personally, I am not a gambler, but I did enjoy looking through all of the older casinos. And, hey, I won a whopping $1.25 in an old slots machine. 

Chamonix Casino

The talk of the town was the new Chamonix Casino. Although I was making fun of it because it looks like an ugly 70s building on the outside. The inside, fortunately, was quite luxurious.

The Brass Ass

I also wandering into The Brass Ass, purely because of its comedic name. This is housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings and features the original “Cripple Creek” sign from the H. H. Rosser’s Pool Hall. 

Golden Nugget Casino

Another option is the Golden Nuggest Casino. My grandparents came to visit me in the RV and stayed here. It offered some nice promotional offers and looked very nice! 

Midnight Rose Casino

Another standout is The Midnight Rose Casino, which features various gaming options and a cozy lounge where visitors can unwind with live music and delicious dining selections. 

Ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

Riding the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, providing an immersive glimpse into the region’s mining history. 

Passengers aboard this charming narrow-gauge railroad are treated to stunning views of the surrounding scenery, including rolling hills and vibrant forests, as the train chugs along its scenic route. 

The ride is not only a captivating adventure but also an informative experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories and historical facts about Cripple Creek’s rich heritage and the importance of the railroad in the area’s development. 

We also got to meet some donkeys! 

My favorite part was looking over the vast landscape that is known to carry sound. They blew the horn and you could hear the sound echo and reverberate throughout the entire valley. 

In addition, I enjoyed looking at all of the mines from above ground. Huge shoutout to them for accommodating my disabled grandfather! 

Learn Something at the Museums and Historical Centers in Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is home to a variety of museums and historical centers that celebrate the town’s rich mining heritage and vibrant past. 

Since this is a historical town, there are many preserved structures that now act as museums that are worth checking out if you love history.

Cripple Creek Heritage Center

The Cripple Creek Heritage Center serves as a focal point for visitors, offering interactive exhibits and engaging displays that delve into the history of gold mining in the region. 

They offer several hand-on exhibits that highlight the local history as well as the local fauna.

Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum

The Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum offers a fascinating insight into the tumultuous history of law enforcement and criminal activity during the gold rush era in Cripple Creek. 

Housed in a historic jail that dates back to the 1890s, the museum features authentic artifacts, including weapons and handcuffs, as well as informative displays detailing notorious outlaws and the lawmen who pursued them. 

The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum, located just a short distance away, focuses on the neighboring town of Victor and its own mining history, providing an in-depth look at the lives of miners and their families. 

Old Homestead House Museum

Additionally, the Old Homestead House Museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of Cripple Creek’s early residents through its preserved Victorian architecture and guided tours. 

This is also Colorado’s oldest brothel museum. Yep, you read that right. This town used to be lined with brothels for those miners after a long day of hard work. 

Although it is retired – sorry gentleman – it is very interesting to learn about in this museum.

Bonus: The brothel scene was run by the infamous Pearl DeVere, and they have a Pearl DeVere Day every year near July 27th. Here, they offer events like bed races and corn hole. Plus, everyone dresses up. 

Take a Trip into Victor, Colorado

Venturing from Cripple Creek to the nearby town of Victor offers a scenic drive that enhances the experience of Colorado’s mountainous terrain. 

Nestled at an elevation of almost 10,000 feet, Victor is often referred to as “The City of Gold Mines” and is renowned for its well-preserved mining sites and rich history. 

The town boasts a charming atmosphere with its quaint architecture, inviting shops, and friendly locals, making it a perfect destination for those seeking to explore the legacy of the gold rush era. 

I had an especially good time looking for ghosts in the presumably haunted Victor Hotel. 

My aunt and uncle (he was a manly man Harley rider) couldn’t even make it through night there!

Say Hi to the Victor Troll (Rita the Rock Planter)

Visiting Rita the Rock Planter, the beloved troll of Victor, is a must for anyone exploring the area. 

This whimsical statue, adorned with a charming smile and a vibrant array of flowers sprouting from her head, embodies the local spirit of creativity and fun.

Situated in a quaint park setting, Rita serves as a picturesque backdrop for photos and a delightful surprise for visitors. 

Children and adults alike enjoy interacting with this quirky figure, making it a popular spot to relax and soak in the surrounding beauty. 

How to Get to Rita The Rock Planter

The parking lot is situated near some old mining tools. This is also very fun to explore. Rita isn’t marked very well as you have to walk through this weird fenced area. 

After that, it is about an easy 0.8 mile hike.

Once you are done looking at Rita, make sure to walk a bit past her to be treated to stunning mountain views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains! 

Funny story: I actually hiked to Rita with both of my cats and filmed a yoga class there.

Watch a Melodrama at the Butte Theater

Attending a melodrama in Cripple Creek is an entertaining experience that immerses visitors in the town’s vibrant cultural scene. 

These normally take place at the historic Butte Theater. This a beloved cultural institution, hosting performances that range from classic plays to melodramas, each delivered with a hint of local flavor. It’s a treat for anyone who delights in live theater and storytelling.

These performances, often characterized by exaggerated characters, humorous plots, and audience participation, provide a delightful throwback to the theatrical traditions of the gold rush era. 

It was so unique to see passionate protagonists and dastardly villains, allowing the audience to cheer for the heroes and boo the antagonists. 

When we ventured into the Butte Theater, it was a story about the Donkey Derby Days, mining, and the old west. This was very fitting for Cripple Creek and was like stepping back in time.

Plus, I am a proud theater nerd, so this was such a fun and unique treat for me!

Attend the Donkey Derby Days in Cripple Creek

Speaking of the Donkey Derby Days portrayed in the melodrama, did you know that Cripple Creek still honors this tradition?

Normally occurring in late June, the Donkey Derby Days is an unforgettable experience that showcases the playful spirit and community pride of Cripple Creek. 

Held annually, this lively event features a unique race where donkeys, ridden by enthusiastic participants, trot down the historic streets of the town. 

The atmosphere is electrifying, filled with cheers from locals and visitors alike as they watch these charming animals and their riders navigate the course. 

Beyond the races, the festival also includes live music, delicious food vendors, beer gardens, and various family-friendly activities, making it a fantastic opportunity to soak in the local culture and celebrate the town’s quirky traditions. 

Raft the Royal Gorge

If you are willing to drive a wee bit, Cripple Creek gives you access to another Colorado treat: the Royal Gorge.

And what better way to experience the Royal Gorge than to raft it!

Rafting the Royal Gorge is an exhilarating adventure that showcases the stunning beauty of Colorado’s rugged landscape while providing an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers.

The Royal Gorge is about an hour drive from Cripple Creek and features steep canyon walls that tower above the Arkansas River, creating a breathtaking backdrop for white-water rafting.

Guided tours are available, ensuring both novice and experienced paddlers can navigate the Class III and IV rapids with confidence. 

As you paddle through the gorge, you’ll encounter a mix of exciting twists and turns, serene stretches, and the vibrant scenery of the surrounding wilderness. 

Not to scare you, but I went rafting on the Royal Gorge from Cripple Creek with my mother in late June. The water levels were the highest they had been in years! Translation: we adventured a little too hard and paid the price…

We did do an entire podcast episode of what happened if you are morbidly curious and want to listen. 👇 It was dramatic to say the least. 

Therefore, I would recommend this adventure when there are not high water conditions present. 

And if you have families, I would check out Bighorn Sheep Canyon instead. I did this in high water conditions as well and it was more “excitement filled” vibe versus “I’m gonna poop my wetsuit”. 

Planning Your Visit to Cripple Creek

Best Time to Visit Cripple Creek

Honestly, the town is beautiful year-round, but each season offers its own unique allure. 

Spring and summer are perfect for outdoor activities, while fall brings vibrant foliage that paints the landscape in brilliant hues. Winter offers a serene, snow-covered charm that’s equally captivating.

I personally loved visiting in late spring. The weather was wonderful and the crowds were thinned.

Please note that generally, temperatures are 10-15°F lower than Canyon City and Colorado Springs here. This means that this might be the perfect summer destination!

Where to Stay in Cripple Creek

Accomodation

Accommodations range from charming bed-and-breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay no matter your preference. 

Most of the casinos have luxury options if that is your vibe. As I said, my grandparents stayed at The Golden Nugget and it was a western themed luxury hotel room. 

camping and RV

Personally, I travel full-time in my RV. So, we ended up staying in Rocking M Ranch. It was honestly such a pleasant surprise!

Mountain views, gorgeous campsites, and an isolated feel. I would highly recommend it, especially if you are staying in spot 30 or in the back wooded sites.

Best Restaurants in Cripple Creek

Be sure to explore local dining options, where you can savor everything from hearty American classics to innovative culinary creations. 

My personal favorite was a restaurant opposite of The Brass Ass called “Maggie’s”. It was a little tricky to find, but the prices were unbeatable, especially for drinks. 

I also loved getting a snack and coffee at the Gold Camp Cafe. 

Concluding Your Cripple Creek Adventure

Cripple Creek beckons with a blend of history, adventure, and community spirit that captivates travelers of all kinds. 

From its storied past to the thrilling activities and vibrant festivals, this town offers an experience that is both enriching and exhilarating.

For adventure seekers, the call of the Rocky Mountains provides endless opportunities for exploration and excitement. 

Travel enthusiasts will find delight in the hidden gems and local culture that define Cripple Creek’s charm. 

And for history buffs, the town’s rich legacy offers a profound connection to a bygone era.

Consider adding Cripple Creek to your bucket list and discover a destination that promises unforgettable adventures and cherished memories. 

And when you’re ready to start planning, we’ve got resources and guides to help you every step of the way.