Find Out What Local Sites & Activities Are Not to Be Missed
Many people visit Black Hawk for the dozens of casinos found within the city limits. However, gambling isn’t the only reason we’re consistently among Colorado’s top-ranked destinations for travelers. Nestled in the great outdoors, our city is the ultimate mountain getaway offering gourmet dining, relaxing resorts, scenic hiking and biking trails, and so much more. If you’ve never been to Black Hawk, we’ve gathered a first timer’s guide full of helpful tips on local sites and activities you won’t want to miss during your upcoming visit!
Take a Day Trip Along the Scenic Peak-to-Peak Highway
Established in 1918, the Peak-to-Peak Highway is Colorado’s oldest scenic byway. Spanning 55 miles, this byway boasts unparalleled views of the Continental Divide with several of the state’s most breathtaking attractions along the way, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, and the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. Road trip enthusiasts looking for the best views may also enjoy a drive along Trail Ridge Road, Mount Evans Road, the Million Dollar Highway, or Pike’s Peak Highway.
Enjoy the Slopes in Eldora, Echo Mountain, or Loveland
Thanks to 300+ sunshine-filled days a year, a high altitude, and low humidity, Colorado is famous for skiing and enjoys a longer ski season than many other states. Anyone who’s ever been to the Centennial State can tell you no matter where you’re staying, you’re never far from some of the best slopes in the world. While staying in Black Hawk, you can hit the slopes at the nearby Echo Mountain, Loveland, or Eldora Ski Area. Colorado’s resort towns are laid back and offer unforgettable dining options and a friendly atmosphere.
Visit Estes Park: The Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
Often referred to as the Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers family-friendly outdoor activities year-round. Test your mettle while hiking, ziplining, or horseback riding in the summer or ice climbing, snowshoeing, or backcountry skiing/snowboarding in the winter. There are also plenty of breweries, wineries, and distilleries where you can unwind and grab some spirits after an adventurous day of hitting the slopes or geocaching. Museums, amusement parks, art galleries, and spas are all popular, low-key attractions at Estes Park for those who are less into extreme sports.
Soak Up the Culture and Relax at Indian Hot Springs’ Spas
The ultimate relaxation can be found at historic Indian Hot Springs, located in Idaho Springs, Colorado. Visitors enjoy soaks in pools, private baths, and outdoor Jacuzzis featuring pure mineral water, as well as therapeutic massages from head to toe. While in the vicinity, you may also stroll down Miner Street, try your hand at gold panning at Argo Gold Mill, or take a six-mile trip aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a steam engine that takes you all the way to the spectacular Devil’s Gate Bridge.
Go Hiking and Biking
Mother Nature blessed Colorado with some of the best hiking and biking trails found anywhere in the world. Spend the afternoon experiencing the beautiful views of Maryland Mountain Trail System. Maryland Mountain Quartz Valley Open Space Park is an outdoor day-use recreation park for walking, hiking, running, mountain biking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. Get back to nature and forget about the daily grind during your next visit to the Black Hawk area.
Saint Mary’s Glacier Offers Breathtaking Snowy Panoramic Views
No Black Hawk trip should be considered complete without a visit to Saint Mary’s Glacier in Arapaho Forest. This semi-permanent snowfield features snow above the lake year-round. Not only does Saint Mary’s Glacier offer one of the area’s most breathtaking panoramic views, but it’s also a quick hike.
Have Questions About Black Hawk’s Casinos, Dining, or Lodging?
Looking for the best casinos, restaurants, and lodging in Black Hawk, CO? Check out Visit Black Hawk’s travel section for additional traveler’s tips. You may also view helpful resources from our partnerships to learn more about local road conditions, driving directions, employment opportunities, and more. We can’t wait to welcome you to Black Hawk!