The Historic Gateway to the Rockies: Mining Heritage Meets Modern Mountain Living.
View Homes for SaleJust 30 miles west of Denver, Idaho Springs, CO offers one of the most accessible authentic mountain lifestyles in the state. Often recognized as the starting point of the Colorado Gold Rush, this historic town has evolved from a rugged mining camp into a vibrant community that seamlessly blends its heritage with modern outdoor enthusiasm. For those who want the true Colorado experience—historic architecture, swift river currents, and towering peaks—without the high price tag of luxury resorts, Idaho Springs is the answer.
Living here means trading the suburban sprawl for the character of Miner Street, where Victorian-era brick buildings now house local breweries like Westbound & Down and legendary eateries like Beau Jo's. It is a town for "doers"—people who want to raft Clear Creek on a Tuesday evening or hike St. Mary's Glacier before brunch. With its strategic location along I-70, it serves as the ultimate basecamp: close enough to commute to the city, yet deep enough in the Rockies to feel like an escape.
The Idaho Springs real estate market is unique in Clear Creek County. Unlike the condo-heavy inventory of ski towns, Idaho Springs is defined by its eclectic mix of single-family homes. You'll find beautifully restored Victorian homes near the historic district, mid-century cabins perched on hillsides, and newer mountain-modern construction offering sweeping views of the Continental Divide.
As the "front door" to the mountains, property values here have seen consistent appreciation. Buyers are increasingly drawn to the area for its relative affordability compared to Summit County and its unbeatable proximity to both Denver and world-class skiing at Loveland or Winter Park. Whether you are looking for a primary residence with a manageable commute or a short-term rental investment with high summer occupancy, Idaho Springs offers compelling opportunities.
Life in Idaho Springs revolves around the outdoors and community connection. The town is famous for the Indian Hot Springs, where residents soak in geothermal caves after a long week. In the summer, Clear Creek runs right through town, offering premier rafting and fishing steps from your front door. For hikers, the road to Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans) begins right here, providing access to the highest paved road in North America.
There is no "tourist trap" feel here; the businesses are locally owned and community-supported. Grab a breakfast burrito at The Main Street Restaurant, pick up gear at a local outfitter, or enjoy a craft beer at Tommyknocker Brewery. The sense of community is palpable, rooted in a history of resilience and neighborly support.
Idaho Springs is part of the Clear Creek School District RE-1, a small but dedicated district known for leveraging its mountain environment for hands-on learning. The district often operates on a four-day school week, a popular draw for families who prioritize outdoor time and family weekends.
| School Name | Grades | Focus Area | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlson Elementary | PK-6 | Community Integrated Learning | Public |
| Clear Creek Middle/High | 7-12 | College Prep & Outdoor Ed | Public |
| The Georgetown School | PK-6 | Charter Option (Nearby) | Charter |
Perhaps the town's greatest asset is its location. Situated directly off I-70, Idaho Springs is the first true mountain town you hit leaving Denver. Commuters can reach the western suburbs (Golden/Lakewood) in under 35 minutes. Public transit is available via the CDOT Bustang and Pegasus shuttle services, which provide reliable connections to both Denver Union Station and the ski resorts to the west.
3,160 people live in Idaho Springs, where the median age is 49.2 and the average individual income is $45,086. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Idaho Springs, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Postcard Foods, Georgetown Jerky & Emporium, and Mountain Mamas' Needful Things.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.1 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 4.42 miles | 19 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.45 miles | 59 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.25 miles | 632 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
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Idaho Springs has 1,451 households, with an average household size of 2.16. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Idaho Springs do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 3,160 people call Idaho Springs home. The population density is 24.41 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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