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Explore the Argo Mill and Tunnel Historic Gold Mill Tours

Idaho Springs, USA
Book online or call us

from $33.61 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
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1 hour 15 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Step back in time and uncover the history of the Colorado Gold Rush at the Argo Mill and Tunnel. This engaging tour offers a glimpse of the innovative technology that powered gold mining in the 1800s, along with a chance to pan for real gold flakes. Marvel at the preserved machinery and learn about the journey of gold ore through the mill. The experience includes a cable car ride offering stunning views of Idaho Springs and surrounding mountains. Perfect for families and history buffs alike.

- Guided tours of the historic Argo Mill and Tunnel lasting one hour
- Try your hand at gold panning with real gold flakes to take home
- Experience breathtaking views via the Mighty Argo cable car
- Family-friendly activities suitable for all ages, with tours running regularly

What's Included

  • Admission into the Argo Mill and Newhouse Tunnel
  • Expert Guide
  • Parking
  • Gratuities
See 2 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

2350 Riverside Drive
Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability.
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Argo Mill and Tunnel (pass by)

Follow the gold ore on its journey from the Argo Tunnel through the Mill. Along the way you'll learn about the people, technology, and the business that made this operation one of the most innovative and successful of its time. The Argo Mill is one of the largest and best-preserved Historic Gold Mills in the world, with much of its original equipment still in place.
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Newhouse Tunnel

The ambitious solution was an adit tunnel dug 4.16 miles into the mountain, tapping mine after mine along the way, draining nearly 300 miles of mine workings.It took the better part of two decades to complete one of the longest tunnels of its kind in the world at the time. When finished, it served more than a hundred mines, keeping them viable for decades to come. In addition to draining the mines of ground water, the tunnel served many uses, allowing Ore, Equipment, Workers, Electricity, Compressed Air, Ventilation to reach deep into the heart of the Central City mines.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Argo Mill

Completed in 1913, The Argo mill was built at the tunnel mouth to process the lower grade ore on-site before being loaded onto the Colorado and Central Railroad bound for the Denver Mint. The mill was one of the most technologically advanced operations of the time, harnessing Tesla and Westinghouse's alternating current long before Denver became electrified.In 1943, a large group of mine workings collapsed into the argo tunnel, causing a catastrophic flood that closed milling operations for good. In 1977, the mill was purchased by James Maxwell who preserved it as a historic tour operation until its purchase in 2016 by the current owners. The Argo Mill and Tunnel is on the national registry of historic landmarks.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Explore the Argo Mill and Tunnel Historic Gold Mill Tours?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5693285P3

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Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Explore the Argo Mill and Tunnel Historic Gold Mill Tours?
A:
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Admission into the Argo Mill and Newhouse Tunnel.
  • Expert Guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Parking.
  • Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Explore the Argo Mill and Tunnel Historic Gold Mill Tours is as follows:

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Explore the Argo Mill and Tunnel Historic Gold Mill Tours will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Admission into the Argo Mill and Newhouse Tunnel
  • Expert Guide
  • Parking
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name