Looking for an easy mountain day without the stress of navigating I-70 traffic or parking? Idaho Springs is one of the simplest car-free day trips from the Denver area – and it has more to offer than ever.
With Bustang and Pegasus transit service connecting Denver Union Station and the Federal Center in Lakewood directly to Idaho Springs, you can leave the car behind and spend the day exploring historic Miner Street, local restaurants and shops, Clear Creek, nearby trails and the new Mighty Argo Cable Car.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed day of lunch and shopping, a family outing, a summer festival trip or a full adventure day with hiking, biking or rafting, Idaho Springs makes it easy to get into the mountains without getting behind the wheel.
Getting There: Take Bustang or Pegasus
Bustang and Pegasus both serve Idaho Springs, making it easy to start your trip from Denver Union Station or the Federal Center. The Idaho Springs stop is located near downtown, close to Miner Street – the center of it all.
Pegasus is a great option for a day trip, with direct service along the I-70 Mountain Corridor and convenient online reservations. Bustang’s West Line provides a full-size coach option, great if you are bringing a little extra gear. Both services are equipped with Wi-Fi, which makes working, scrolling or streaming a breeze. Before you go, check the latest schedule and return times so you can plan your day around the bus that works best for you.
Once you arrive, much of downtown Idaho Springs is walkable. You can also use the free Clear Creek County Roundabout bus service to get around town and connect to other areas in Clear Creek County.
Start with the New Mighty Argo Cable Car
One of Idaho Springs’ newest attractions is the Mighty Argo Cable Car, located at the historic Argo Mill & Tunnel. The scenic ride takes visitors from town up to Miners Point, where you can take in mountain views, explore the mountaintop area, grab food and drinks, and access trails connected to Virginia Canyon Mountain Park.
For visitors who want the views without a strenuous climb, the gondola is an easy way to experience the landscape above Idaho Springs. For hikers and mountain bikers, it also creates a new way to access the area’s growing trail network. Plan ahead by checking current hours, ticket availability, weather conditions and trail status before you go.
You can make the Mighty Argo the centerpiece of your day, or pair it with a walk through town, lunch on Miner Street or a visit to one of Idaho Springs’ historic attractions.
Explore Historic Downtown Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs is a classic Colorado mountain town, with a historic downtown that still reflects its mining-era roots. Miner Street is lined with historic buildings, restaurants, breweries, shops and local businesses, making it an easy place to spend the day wandering.
Take time to browse local boutiques, outdoor-inspired shops, gift stores and specialty businesses. Keep an eye out for historic plaques and architecture as you walk through downtown. For a quieter stop, visit the Idaho Springs Public Library, housed in a historic Carnegie Library building at 14th Avenue and Miner Street. It’s a charming reminder that Idaho Springs is not just a place to pass through — it’s a town with deep local history and character.
Another easy downtown stop is the Charlie Tayler Water Wheel and nearby Clear Creek access. It’s a short walk from the heart of town and a good option for photos, a quick stroll or a peaceful break by the water. Grab a sandwich in town and then enjoy the views.
Eat, Drink and Shop Local
Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy the local food scene. Depending on your mood, you can plan your day around pizza, barbecue, burgers, brunch, craft beer, cider, coffee or a sit-down dinner before heading back to Denver.
Longtime favorites include Beau Jo’s, Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub, Westbound & Down Brewing Company, Clear Creek Cidery, MTN Prime, Two Brothers Deli, Main Street Restaurant and Smokin Yard’s BBQ. Many restaurants are located in or near downtown, making it easy to build a transit-friendly itinerary.
If you’re visiting on a summer afternoon or evening, give yourself time to linger. Miner Street often has a relaxed mountain-town feel, especially when outdoor dining, live music or special events are happening downtown.
Add a Trail, Park or Outdoor Adventure
If you want to add some movement to your day, Idaho Springs has several outdoor adventure options close to town.
For a low-key outing, walk along Clear Creek, visit Water Wheel Park or spend time at Courtney Ryley Cooper Park, which has green space, picnic areas and creekside access. These are good choices for families, casual visitors or anyone who wants fresh air without committing to a major hike.
For a bigger adventure, look into Virginia Canyon Mountain Park and the trail network connected to the Mighty Argo area. Some trails are designed for hiking, some for mountain biking and some for shared use, so be sure to check maps, difficulty ratings and current conditions before heading out.
Summer is also rafting season on Clear Creek, with several outfitters offering trips from or near Idaho Springs. If rafting is part of your plan, book in advance and make sure your trip timing lines up with your arrival and return transit schedule.
Time Your Trip with a Summer Event
Idaho Springs is especially fun when your visit lines up with a downtown event. During the summer, check the local event calendar for markets, live music, community celebrations and festivals.
Thursdays’ Market on Miner brings local vendors, music and a lively small-town atmosphere downtown. Other seasonal events, live music nights, garden socials, yoga and community gatherings pop up throughout the summer.
If you’re planning a transit trip for an event, check both the event schedule and the Bustang or Pegasus return schedule before you go. That way you can enjoy the evening without worrying about your ride home.
Know Before You Go
Check schedules before you leave. Bustang and Pegasus schedules can change, and some services have different weekday and weekend options.
Reserve Pegasus tickets in advance. Pegasus reservations are tied to a specific trip time, so plan your return before you book.
Pack for mountain weather. Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes and layers. Conditions can change quickly, especially if you’re heading up to the Mighty Argo mountaintop area.
Travel light. Pegasus has limited luggage space, so Bustang may be a better fit if you are bringing bulkier gear.
Use local transit when helpful. The free Roundabout bus can help you get around Idaho Springs and Clear Creek County without needing a car.
Support local businesses. One of the best parts of a car-free day trip is having time to eat, shop and explore locally instead of just passing through.
Plan Your Trip
Ready to trade traffic stress for mountain views, historic charm and a car-free day in Idaho Springs? Visit GoI70.com/transit to compare I-70 transit options, check the latest Bustang and Pegasus schedules, and plan a smarter trip to the mountains.
More mountains. Less traffic. Better day trips.