Inviting discovery since 1859

Following the economic downturn of 1857-58, Americans were looking for hope and prosperity, similar to many people today. Hardy souls who struck out across the barren prairie of the American plains did so in search of a new and better life. Colorado's Gold Rush saw about 100,000 gold seekers (known as the 59ers) make their way to the Rocky Mountains. Those who made it settled new and rugged territory. In 2009, Colorado is celebrating 150 years of gold mining. In commemorating this migration, several towns that were founded due to the discovery of gold formed the "Colorado Gold Trail." The participating towns include: Boulder, Gilpin County (Black Hawk/Central City), Idaho Springs, Breckenridge, Park County (Fairplay, Alma and Como) and Leadville.

Although each of these towns began with the discovery of gold, it is interesting to see how differently they have developed over the years and how these towns survived by reinventing themselves, while so many other gold mining towns became ghost towns or disappeared altogether. Each has its own character, legends and bragging rights.