Smuggler Mine Tours

Tour operator · Pitkin County

Smuggler Mine Tours

Tour operator · Pitkin County

100 Smuggler Mountain Rd, Aspen, CO 81611

Highlights

Authentic silver mine tours with knowledgeable guides sharing history

100 Smuggler Mountain Rd, Aspen, CO 81611 Get directions

elkmtnaspen.com

@afar

"Mining for Silver Aspen’s history runs deep with silver mining. People came to Aspen in the 1800’s in the hopes of getting rich by finding the mother load of silver nuggets. Scattered across the mountain sides are mining shafts so be careful where you step. For a peek back in history there are the Smuggler Mine tours. Put a helmet on and tunnel through the underground passage ways with Jay the tour guide that has been working at the mines since the 70’s. He is a wealth of information about the mining industry back in the day, the geology of the area and the history about Smuggler Mine itself. The mines claim to fame was that one of the largest pure silver nuggets was found in the mine and it weighted nearly a ton. This is a truly experiential tour with an educational component. Walking through these mine shafts in the depths of the mountain you get a glimpse of the conditions that miners worked under all those years ago. It is not for those that get claustrophobic."

3 Unforgettable Summer Days in Aspen

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Mariya Mitsinova

Google

A fun tour for my boys age 5 and 7. Something different and unique to experience in Aspen. The boys were fascinated by the dark and cold tunnels, dug with a shovel and found some cool rocks to take home. Jay, the guide, is an old timer and a character. I wish there were more stories that kids would find interesting. The tour is meant for adults mainly, but children will have fun too. The minimum age for the tour is 5. Make a reservation by phone, the tours sell out sometimes.

Mani Vardhan

Google

Disappointing experience. Drove nearly 3 hours from Denver based on Google's indication that the Smuggler Mine Tour was open, only to find it closed upon arrival. It's baffling that there was no mention of the reservation requirement beforehand. Transparency is key for travelers, and the lack thereof caused unnecessary inconvenience. Hopefully, they can improve their communication to avoid similar situations for future visitors

Jia

Google

Hidden gem in Aspen! It took us a while to locate the place then we found Jay sitting in his cabin on the hill by the American flag. What an experience! The tour was so authentic and interesting, and Jay was super knowledgeable about the history of the mine. Highly recommended if you are looking for something different to do during your stay in Aspen.

Mark Otte

Google

For something a little different when you are visiting Aspen, I highly recommend this tour. You will be inside an authentic Hard Rock Mine, with great explanations and anecdotes from your guide. It will give you a sense of what formed the basis of the economy in many areas of the early United States... and what hard work it was to be a miner! Also, a great rainy day activity.

Mike Manclark

Google

OUTSTANDING!!! Jay who has been at the mine for 40 years is absolutely a treat. The best part of the tour was actually just listening to him talk and tell us about the history of the mine, Aspen and so much more.. It was so incredibly interesting and a great experience for kids and adults absolutely fantastic! JAY!! YOUR THE BEST

Geoffrey Smith

Google

We held our wedding at the Smuggler Mine. Chris, Jay and the rest of the team could not have been more helpful in helping us throw a truly unique and memorable wedding celebration. Highly recommend to anyone seeking an outdoor wedding venue in Aspen!

Allison Martin

Google

Very fun and informative tour, highly recommend.

Jim Randstrom

Google

Must see! "J" was quite a character! Super nice, funny, and a wealth of knowledge! Mine tour was very interesting!!!