Drew Crew Adventure: Idaho Springs, Colorado
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
Some places do one thing really well. Idaho Springs?
It does just about everything well!
When the Drew Crew rolls into a new destination, we're chasing four things: RIDE. EAT. PLAY. STAY. If a town can nail all four, it's worth talking about. Idaho Springs absolutely delivered and quickly became one of our favorite adventures yet.
RIDE
Let's get straight to it—Virginia Canyon Mountain Park is legit. This isn't your average pedal-around-the-woods trail system. If you're an intermediate or advanced rider looking for fast flow, chunky tech, big mountain views, and lap after lap of good times, you're going to love this place.
We spent a few days exploring the network, but two trails kept calling us back: Drop Shaft and Eureka. They're the kind of trails that have you grinning the whole way down and immediately planning another lap before you've even reached the bottom.
And speaking of laps...
The Mighty Argo Gondola is a game changer. Instead of grinding out climb after climb, you load the bike, kick back, and enjoy killer views over Idaho Springs while heading back to the top. It's one of those experiences that's just as fun as the riding itself.
At the summit, the Outpost is the perfect post-lap hang. Grab a snack, a cold drink, and soak in some seriously epic views. If you're there on a Friday or Saturday, stick around—the live music turns the whole place into an awesome mountain bike scene where everyone is just hanging out after a day on the trails.
Pro tip: hit the Twilight Bike Rate. Cooler temps, hero dirt, golden-hour light...that's our kind of ride. Even better, parking on Colorado Boulevard is free after 6 p.m., making evening laps a no-brainer.
Good rides deserve good food, and Idaho Springs absolutely delivers.
First stop? Beau Jo's Pizza. Big, hearty Colorado-style pizza that tastes even better after burning a few thousand calories on the bike.
Main Street Restaurant became one of our go-to breakfast spots, while The Frothy Cup was our afternoon caffeine (and treat) pick-me-up.
Need barbecue? Smokin Yard BBQ doesn't miss.
Looking for a quick lunch? Two Brothers Deli has you covered.
Want something different? Grab a bite from the Timberline Food Truck, then finish the day with a cider at Clear Creek Cidery.
Honestly...you could come here just for the food.
The best part about Idaho Springs is that the fun doesn't stop when you put the bikes away.
Dex couldn't get enough of the Idaho Springs Skate Park. After long ride days, Indian Hot Springs was exactly what the legs needed. Nothing beats sinking into hot mineral water after smashing trail laps.
We also checked out the Argo Mill & Tunnel Tour, and it was even cooler than we expected. It's packed with Colorado mining history, but it's presented in a way that's actually fun and easy for the whole family to enjoy.
Whether you're riding every day or tagging along with someone who is, there's plenty to keep everyone stoked.
Home base for the trip was Argo Inn & Suites, and we'd book it again without hesitation.
Our creekside room was awesome. Falling asleep with the sound of Clear Creek outside the window is tough to beat after a full day of riding.
We also checked out one of their larger suites with a separate en suite layout, which would be perfect for families or riding buddies who want a little extra space. Great location. Comfortable rooms. Friendly staff. Everything you need after a big day outside.
Would We Go Back? Not even a question.
What stood out most wasn't just the trails—it was the people. Everywhere we went, people were genuinely excited to share their town, recommend places to eat, and make us feel welcome. That kind of vibe goes a long way. Combine that with killer riding, great food, mountain history, and plenty to do off the bike, and you've got one seriously underrated adventure destination. We had such a good time that Dex and I are already talking about a boys trip back.
If you're looking for a Colorado mountain town where you can ride hard all day, crush great food afterward, and still find plenty of adventure when the bikes are parked, put Idaho Springs on your list.
Trust us...you're going to want more than one lap.
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