Public lands make up 96 percent of Mineral County and provide access to Forest Service trails. For trip planning, you can also choose from hikes, activities on the Rio Grande and the region’s mining history. In Creede, there are also museums, theater and a historic downtown. By prioritizing these themes according to your interests, you can plan your stay around what you want to do—whether that means spending time on outdoor trails, enjoying culture or both.
Hiking and Trails in Mineral County
The Continental Divide Trail passes through Mineral County. At River Hill, the two trailheads at Squaw Creek and Weminuche Creek lead into the Weminuche Wilderness and connect with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. If you’re looking for a specific hike rather than a connection to a long-distance trail, try Inspiration Point: The trail is 3.5 miles long and offers views of Creede, the historic mining district, the surrounding mountains and the Rio Grande River.
Other trails appeal to different interests. The East Bellows Trail provides access on foot and horseback to the Wheeler Geologic Area; conditions on forest trails can change seasonally. South of the Creede baseball field, Mineral County has built a trail offering opportunities for biking, hiking and jogging. The destinations and uses are varied, ranging from access to a geologic area to a scenic hike to a trail for several recreational activities.
Mining History and Culture in Creede
The Bachelor-Commodore Mine Complex is significant for its connection to the mining industry that fostered the settlement of Creede and Mineral County. A self-guided walking tour of the Underground Mining Museum takes about 30 minutes and includes an MP3 audio guide. In summer, guided tours are also offered, explaining mining equipment and methods. If you’d like to plan for this seasonal tour, check the schedule before your trip.
The Bachelor Loop Historic Tour also explores mining history: This 17-mile self-guided drive passes through the historic mining district above Creede, by mining sites dating to the 1890s and by abandoned ghost towns. The entire loop can be cycled. The eastern route is intended for four-wheel-drive vehicles. This means there are different ways to travel the same tour, while drivers should observe the requirement for the eastern section.
In downtown Creede, the Creede Historical Museum is located in the Old Denver & Rio Grande Railroad Depot, next to Basham Park. Its collections include pioneer items, gaming equipment, photographs, newspapers and other local artifacts. Historic buildings and names throughout the seven-block downtown area mark the former era of silver mining. The Creede Repertory Theatre was founded in 1966. From May to September, it produces four plays in rotating repertory and also hosts numerous music events and concerts. The schedule can vary by season, so check the dates for the current season. The Headwaters Music Festival takes place every August in Creede and brings a series of bands to town for the weekend. Here, too, it’s worth checking the specific event dates before your trip.
Rio Grande: Boating and Rafting
Creede and Mineral County are located along the upper Rio Grande or border its headwaters. At Rio Grande Reservoir, there is a boating site with a basic boat ramp and an access road to the reservoir. Motorboats are permitted there, and fish are stocked during the summer months. If you’d like to go boating or fishing, check the current rules in advance.
Rafting and kayaking on the Rio Grande range from Class II to Class IV. Mountain Man runs rafting trips through the pool-drop rapids near Creede; rafting services may be seasonal. So check the operator’s current dates before your trip. Along with hiking trails and cultural attractions, these activities offer a range of options for your stay, rather than a single itinerary suited to every travel plan.
Discover more destinations: Creede, Arapahoe, Summit, Lake County, Grand, Douglas, Prowers County, Ouray County
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