ARGO Mill and Tunnel

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Idaho Springs, CO
ARGO Mill and Tunnel

The Argo Mill and Tunnel is a preserved historic gold mining operation in Idaho Springs, Colorado. Ou
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Come visit one of the regions most amazing historic mining sites, the Mighty ARGO Mill. Our tour includes a visit to our history room to view a video describing the history of the ARGO Tunnel and Mill, a view into our ore mine the Double Eagle, a descent through our historic 5 story ore mill, a visit in the historical artifact museum at the base of the ARGO Mill, and a chance to find real gold as we offer you a gold panning lesson!

07/24/2024

Gold mining impacted Colorado’s environment by mainly affecting our water. When buried rock is exposed to oxygen, sulfuric acid breaks down the metals within the rock, allowing them to drain into local water sources. Mining also introduced chemical leaks into nearby streams. Additionally, the need for construction caused deforestation, which then, paired with the removal of rocks for ore, caused dislodged sediment to clog streams altogether.
The Argo Mill and Tunnel works tirelessly toward reversing these adverse effects of Colorado’s mining history.

07/22/2024

The Argo Mill and Tunnel very clearly works to preserve our history, but did you know we also work to preserve our environment? The Argo Tunnel Water Treatment Plant, which has been in operation since 1998, treats the contaminated water that still drains from the tunnel. Each day, heavy metals are removed from this water before entering Clear Creek.
Visit The Argo Mill and Tunnel to learn more about how we work towards preserving the land and water we rely on!

07/19/2024

Thank you so much for making the trip last fall to visit The Argo Mill and Tunnel, ! We love to see families of all ages enjoying our tours.

07/17/2024

Ore cars—they may not have been the flashiest mining equipment, but they sure were important!
Back when The Argo Mill and Tunnel was operational, in order for it to receive ore from local mines to start milling it, miners would need to load the mined ore into these carts for optimal transportation. Such ore cars would travel through the tunnel frequently, bringing loads of gold and minerals to be processed and broken down.

07/15/2024

Gold mills, like The Argo, are a key second step in extracting gold. After the mining process, which removes ore from the surrounding rock, the ore must be milled to further separate the gold and other valuable minerals from the valueless rock. Milling the ore also helps make the gold and minerals easier and less expensive to transport to be smelted.
Stop by and learn more about the milling process at The Argo Mill and Tunnel!

07/12/2024

Do you know who George Andrew Jackson is? In January 1859, he discovered deposits of gold near present-day Idaho Springs, becoming a catalyst of the Colorado Gold Rush. Quickly after his discovery, settlers flocked to Colorado in search of gold, starting the Gold Rush. Soon enough, Idaho Springs and The Argo Mill and Tunnel became a bustling hub.

07/10/2024

Did you know gold panning was the original technique people used to find gold during the Gold Rush? Today, panning for gold is a fun way to connect to the history of the Colorado Gold Rush, and you could potentially strike gold yourself!
Gold panning is easy to learn for all ages, and it’s a skill you can take with you and try anywhere!

07/08/2024

Thank you so much for leaving a five-star review, Emily! We are overjoyed to hear you had such a fantastic tour experience at The Argo Mill and Tunnel.

07/04/2024

Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸
We hope your day is filled with sunshine and fireworks! Join us in celebrating the long weekend and stop by The Argo Mill and Tunnel for extra family fun.

07/03/2024

The Colorado Gold Rush began in 1859. While some discoveries of gold in Colorado preceded this, when large deposits and veins of gold were found near Idaho Springs and in Clear Creek Canyon, news spread quickly. By the summertime, prospectors crowded Colorado in search of gold.
The Argo Mill and Tunnel and the surrounding area became an international hot spot. It served for many Colorado gold mines and increased the industry’s profitability greatly both during the Gold Rush and after.

07/01/2024

Want to bring home something special for a friend back home?

Stop by our shop for unique gifts and products from local artisans like soaps, teas, candles, and more to share your adventure to The Argo Mill and Tunnel.
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06/28/2024

Summer is warming up and the Colorado sun is out and shining!☀️

Head over to Idaho Springs for some fun in the sun, and come take a tour with us at The Argo Mill and Tunnel!
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06/26/2024

There’s nothing quite like seeing history right in front of you. Thanks for visiting, Edward!
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06/21/2024

Happy !

Did you know that during The Argo Mill and Tunnel’s operation, it processed over $100 million worth of gold!? No wonder the Clear Creek and Gilpin County mining districts were known as The Richest Square Mile on Earth during the Colorado Gold Rush.💰
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06/19/2024

We love seeing your photos! Thank you so much to Jamie Achberger, Brian McAleese and Angie Savage for visiting The Argo Mill and Tunnel and sharing your adventure.
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06/16/2024

Happy Father’s Day!

Show your appreciation and bring Dad or any father figures in your life to The Argo Mill and Tunnel to celebrate with a day in the mountains!⛰️
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06/13/2024

Join us for a day filled with awe-inspiring stories, breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to connect with history in the most electrifying way possible. Let's make some noise for the past, present and future - all in one unforgettable experience at the Argo Mill & Tunnel.
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06/10/2024

Nothing beats a mountain-top view. And if this photo doesn’t impress, experience the incredible Argo Mill & Tunnel in Idaho Springs. It never disappoints.

Book Your Tour: https://argomilltour.com/

06/07/2024

Our sentiments exactly.

06/06/2024

Our massive rock crusher is not just a piece of machinery; it's a testament to the golden age of mining. Imagine the power required to turn large rocks into small pieces, all in the quest for gold.

This marvel of engineering played a pivotal role in mining operations, and now you can witness its grandeur firsthand. Don't miss your chance to explore this and many other wonders at the historic Argo Mill & Tunnel.

06/03/2024

Looking for something a little different for your next vacation? Why not experience an authentic slice of Americana by touring the historic Argo Mill and Tunnel? You’ll even have the opportunity to pan for gold and keep whatever you find!

What are you waiting for? Book your tour today!
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05/31/2024

Big thanks to Mike Held for the fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that you and your wife enjoyed your tour at The Argo Mill and Tunnel.

Shoutout to our guide Andrew for keeping it both informative and entertaining! We're delighted to provide a glimpse into the fascinating history of gold mining from the 19th century to WWII. And we agree, gold panning is always a hit for all ages!
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05/29/2024

A huge thank you to Ryan for the awesome review! We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing tour experience at The Argo Mill and Tunnel.
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05/28/2024

This Memorial Day, the Argo Mill & Tunnel honors the brave souls who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice. Wishing everyone a meaningful Memorial Day.
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05/25/2024

Escape to Idaho Springs for a day of adventure and discovery! Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of gold mining at The Argo Mill and Tunnel. Come explore with us!

Book Now: https://argomilltour.com/
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05/22/2024

One of the many engineering marvels behind the Argo Mill's success, the dredge, is a sight to behold. It's not just a piece of machinery; it's a symbol of the ingenuity and determination of the miners who sought to unlock the earth's hidden treasures.

Whether you're a history buff, an engineering enthusiast or simply in search of a unique day out, the Argo Mill & Tunnel offers an unforgettable journey through time.
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05/21/2024

Don’t mind these two gents.

They’re just two dapper fellows exploring the immense Newhouse Tunnel, looking for a good time. And you can too when you book your own tour of the historic Argo Mill & Tunnel. Don’t wait until next year or the year after that.

Book Now: https://argomilltour.com/
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04/29/2024

It's ! Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a miner in the 1800s? Come take a step back in time and experience the fascinating history of mining in Colorado at the Argo Mill & Tunnel. From the vintage machinery to the authentic artifacts, you'll feel like you've been transported to another era. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey into the past!

Book your tour: http://tinyurl.com/4zsppjuf

04/26/2024

The Argo Mill & Tunnel is filled with odd contraptions like these flotation cells.

When these cells are agitated, they add air, forming bubbles to which all hydrophobic minerals link. As a result, the minerals rise to the top of the cell. There, they collect in a launder. The ore that does not float is taken away as tailings, which may be subjected to further flotation. Aren’t you glad you stuck around for this mining factoid?

Book your tour: http://tinyurl.com/4zsppjuf

Address

2350 Riverside Drive
Idaho Springs, CO
80452

Telephone

+13035672421

Website

http://www.mightyargo.com/

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Videos

12.7.23

Join the sweetest adventure in town at the Argo Mill & Tunnel's 3rd Annual Gingerbread Challenge! Unleash your sugary creativity and let the gingerbread magic flow. 🍬✨ Embrace the challenge, build a delicious masterpiece, and let the festive spirit rise with every sprinkle! 🏰🎄 Click here for more information: https://www.gingerbreadchallenge-cccae.org/ #GingerbreadChallengeFun #ArgoGingerMagic #themightyargo #argomillandtunnel #mining #miningtunnel #mininghistory #coloradomining #themercantile #colorado #coloradogoldrush #cogoldrush #coloradohistory #coloradomininghistory #miningtown #denverfun #denveractivities #justwestofdenver #idahosprings #thisisidahosprings #clearcreekhistory #clearcreekcolorado #clearcreekcounty #mountains #rockymountains #coloradoactivities #explorecolorado

12.7.23 | #2

Hurry, gingerbread enthusiasts! 🏃‍♂️🍪 Time is running out to register for the Gingerbread Challenge! Don't miss the chance to showcase your sweet skills and join the festive fun. 🎉🏰 Last days to register—don't let this opportunity crumble away! 🕒✨ https://www.gingerbreadchallenge-cccae.org/rsvp-to-gingerbread-display #RegisterNow #GingerbreadCountdown #argomillandtunnel #argotours #argomilltour #argotunneltour #argomill #argotunnel #idahospringsadventure #tourtheargomillandtunnel #tourtheargo #milltour #minetour #idahospringsactivities #themightyargo #historicaltour #argohistory