In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit—including the Old Hundred Mine Tour, where to eat, hikes to do, and helpful tips to make your trip unforgettable.
We recently set out on a 6-day road trip through Colorado, and Silverton was a must-see along the way.
If you’d like to see the ACTUAL mine tour, check out our YouTube video!
About Silverton, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Silverton is a charming historic mining town that was established in 1874. Its growth skyrocketed in 1881 when the Denver & Rio Grande Railway rolled into town, forever changing its future. Today, Silverton still holds onto its old soul, with many original 19th-century buildings still standing tall and most of its streets remaining unpaved, giving visitors the distinct feeling of stepping back in time.
While you could breeze through with just a coffee or a quick bite before heading north on the Million Dollar Highway, we highly recommend spending at least a few hours here. From scenic hikes to fascinating museums and mine tours, Silverton offers more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s a living slice of Colorado history.
Here are some of the best things to do in Silverton.
Tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine
Hands down, the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour was one of the most fun and unique experiences we had in Silverton—and absolutely worth every penny! For just $30 per adult, $15 for kids 5-12, and children 4 and under are free (seniors 60+ cost $28), you hop aboard a vintage electric-powered mine train that takes you 1/3 of a mile deep into the heart of Galena Mountain, which towers over 13,000 feet high. Heads up—you will get a little water dripping on you, but they provide these yellow raincoats with hoods to keep you dry. Once inside, you’ll walk through the old tunnels, learn all about historic mining techniques, and watch live demonstrations of original 1930s mining equipment (they’re LOUD, but super cool to see in action!).
What made the tour even more special was our guide—a real former miner, who brought the history to life with personal stories and deep knowledge of the mining world. His passion made it feel less like a tour and more like a journey through time.
🎉 Bonus activity: After the underground adventure, you’ll get to pan for real silver, copper, gems, and gold, and you get to keep whatever you find! We found several .999% silver balls! Lukas was enthralled with this experience, spending an hour panning, and taking home one of the bags they provide for free full of little gemstones. It was the highlight of the experience for him since he loves gems so much!
🗓️ A few quick tips:
- The tour is summer-only and runs hourly.
- No reservations are not taken, but the drive out will take you at least 10-15 minutes from Silverton so plan accordingly so you make it for the tour you want.
- If you only have time for one thing in Silverton, make it this!
Walk Around Town
One of the best ways to soak in Silverton’s charm is simply by wandering around town. This tiny historic mining town is packed with original buildings, many proudly displaying the year they were built—giving you a glimpse into life in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The main drag, Greene Street, was once the unofficial dividing line in town. On one side lived the law-abiding, church-going citizens—on the other? Well, things got a bit rowdier.
Just a block away sits Blair Street, Silverton’s former red-light district. Once home to dozens of saloons and brothels, today it’s lined with shops and eateries—but it still holds tight to its wild west roots with unpaved streets and rustic storefronts that transport you back in time.
If you’re a fan of frontier history and small-town charm, don’t rush through Silverton. Give yourself time to wander, imagine the town’s wilder days, and enjoy the preserved character that makes this place so unique.
Go For a Hike
The Silverton area is surrounded by some of the most epic hikes in the San Juan Mountains, offering stunning alpine lakes, panoramic mountain views, and unforgettable backcountry adventures. Below are a few must-do trails to consider—but keep in mind: these are popular hikes, so start early and remember to Leave No Trace to help preserve these wild places.
Ice Lakes Basin
📏 8.6 miles | ⬆️ 3,070 feet elevation gain
Arguably the most famous hike in the San Juans—and for good reason. While it was closed for a time following a 2020 wildfire, Ice Lakes Basin is now open and as breathtaking as ever. This trail leads to three brilliant blue alpine lakes, framed by jagged peaks and wildflowers in the summer. It’s still free to hike (for now), but due to its popularity, there’s ongoing discussion about requiring permits—so treat this trail with care and respect to help keep it accessible.
Columbine Lake
📏 8.3 miles | ⬆️ 2,933 feet elevation gain
This challenging trail rewards hikers with jaw-dropping mountain views and a surreal, turquoise-blue lake at the top. It’s quieter than Ice Lakes but still popular, and the trailhead parking is limited. If you arrive late, you may need to park near the bridge and walk to the trailhead—another reason to get an early start.
Highland Mary Lake Trail
📏 4.9 miles | ⬆️ 1,414 feet elevation gain
Don’t be fooled by the shorter distance—this is still a solid alpine hike! Along the way, you’ll pass serene high-elevation lakes and take in views that rival the longer hikes. The final stretch of the road to the trailhead can be rough, so 4WD is recommended. If you’re in a lower-clearance vehicle, consider parking 0.7–1 mile away and walking in.
Whether you’re chasing turquoise lakes or towering peaks, the hikes near Silverton are pure mountain magic. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, check weather conditions, and hit the trail early to enjoy these spots at their best!
Grab a Bite to Eat in Silverton
If you get hungry while in Silverton, one spot you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Coffee Bear. This cozy café serves excellent coffee and unique, square-shaped breakfast burritos that are as delicious as they are fun. Be sure to head up to the top deck—it’s the perfect place to sip your drink and admire the charming mountain town from above.
For a hearty breakfast, Kendall Mountain Café is a classic go-to. This local favorite dishes up traditional breakfast fare in a warm, welcoming setting—perfect fuel before a day of hiking or sightseeing. If you’re craving something more casual and lively, Handlebars Food & Saloon is a great stop for burgers and comfort food, all served in a fun, Old West saloon atmosphere. It’s family-friendly and full of character.
Another local gem is Avalanche Brewing Company, where you’ll find tasty pizzas, tacos, and a laid-back vibe, complete with craft beer and a dog-friendly patio. For a slightly more upscale dining experience, check out The Eureka Station, which offers a diverse menu with everything from sandwiches and salads to hearty entrées—perfect for a relaxed but elevated dinner in town.
And if you have a sweet tooth, make sure to visit the Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory. This fun spot serves up indulgent funnel cakes and other treats that feel straight out of a state fair—great for a family treat or a nostalgic dessert break. Whether you’re fueling up for an adventure or winding down after one, Silverton has plenty of tasty options to enjoy!
Our Experience
The highlight of our time in Silverton was definitely the Old Hundred Gold Mine tour! Learning how miners made the mine and the tools they used for mining was an incredible experience and one we can’t recommend enough! Plus, Lukas brought home free gems that he’s cherished ever since.
Hopefully this guide helps you on your adventure through Silverton, Colorado! As always, Keep Adventuring, Keep Exploring and we’ll see you on the next Adventure!
