Georgetown

These two historic neighbors have evolved from gold and silver mining towns into watering holes for skiers returning home from nearby ski slopes.

Staff writer The historic buildings in Georgetown and neighboring Silver Plume were designated the Georgetown-Silver Plume National Historic District by the National Park Service, which regarded the Victorian buildings as so well-preserved that they “are reminiscent of a bygone era.” Georgetown was described as “unique among Colorado’s mining towns” because the wealth of the mining district was centered there and the residents sought to reproduce the classic architecture and culture…

Staff writer Visitors can step aboard history, literally, on the narrow-gauge Georgetown Loop Railroad. Leaving from either Georgetown or Silver Plume, cars open to the stunning views along the route are pulled by a steam locomotive. The train makes the seven-mile round trip in about an hour and a half. Food and drink, gift shops and restrooms are available in Georgetown and Silver Plume. There are also special evening tours…

Staff writer Georgetown Crowded out of the quest for gold at Idaho Springs, prospectors continued up the canyon, where they found little gold but plenty of silver. Two mining communities – Elizabethtown and Georgetown – grew up as neighbors. In 1868, residents of the two communities agreed to unite into one town named Georgetown. Like many mountain towns, Georgetown’s growth was greatly helped when a railroad line connected the town…