Gambling, more await in Cripple Creek

You’ve heard of Pikes Peak. Perhaps you should become more familiar with Cripple Creek, the quintessential historic mining town that sits on the southwest slopes of the majestic mountain and is one of three Colorado towns that offers casino gambling.

Over 100 years ago, Cripple Creek attracted tens of thousands of gold-seekers to its hillsides in search of their fortunes. Now visitors pursue those fortunes at a variety of the town’s casino establishments. But whether it’s gaming, history or outdoor recreation, there are a myriad of rich and wonderful experiences to be had in Cripple Creek. Here are a few of our favorites.

Explore the gold mines
Mining is the core of how Cripple Creek came to be. Gold was discovered in 1891 by a cowboy and part-time prospector and it transformed a sleepy, little ranching community into one of the world’s richest gold camps. Today, you can tour the Mollie Kathleen mine, descending 1,000 feet underground and touring through its educational exhibits. Tours are also available at the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine, which is still in operation today.

Trailblazing on horseback
See the Rocky Mountains the way early explorers did — from the back of a horse. The Cripple Creek area offers several horseback riding opportunities, with some rides tucking into the forest on quiet trails, others cross vast meadows filled with wildlife – all with Pikes Peak as their backdrop. From kids to seniors, there will be a horse suited just for you.

Hiking, riding, driving
The challenge and beauty of hiking in the Pikes Peak region is second to none. Hiking trails too numerous to count have something for everyone, including challenging climbs (Pikes Peak) to easy strolls (nearby Mueller State Park and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument). A trip on the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, reveals scenic wonders around every curve as century-old steam locomotive transports you back to the gold mining days. It’s a treat for railroad and history buffs, kids and the whole family. For sightseers who prefer motorized transport, Cripple Creek is on the Gold Belt Scenic Byway, which is a stunning drive, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.

Museum exhibits
Visitors with a historic interest will enjoy browsing the region’s many museums. Here you can learn about the Gold Rush – the characters it brought to town and those it created. Learn about the mining life; see original artifacts; ponder the successes and the colorful way of life in the new frontier.

Colorful casinos
Of course, gaming in Cripple Creek provides fun and exciting year-round entertainment. Cripple Creek Casinos offer the latest and greatest slots, live blackjack, roulette, craps and poker in a friendly and scenic Colorado mountain atmosphere. The city of Cripple Creek is home to 14 unique Colorado casinos, which vary from modern facilities to beautifully restored historic buildings. Several of these Colorado casinos offer great food and hotel accommodations.

And, the casinos in downtown Cripple Creek are all within walking distance of one another, so it’s easy to check out each great location and find the hottest slots or tables of the day. For more information, directions or a list of the casinos located in Cripple Creek, visit www.visitcripplecreek.com

Cripple Creek events

Victor Celebrates the Arts, Sept. 3-5

Cruise Above the Clouds Car Show, Sept. 10-11

Mt. Pisgah Speaks Cemetery Tours, Sept. 17

2 Mile Club’s Aspen Tours, Sept. 17-18 and 24-25