Smuggler Mine Tours

Tour operator · Pitkin County ·

Smuggler Mine Tours

Tour operator · Pitkin County ·

Explore Aspen's silver mining history on an authentic underground tour

Information

100 Smuggler Mountain Rd, Aspen, CO 81611 Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"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

Smuggler Mine tours

Jennifer Dobbs R.

Google

Absolutely loved our visit to Smugglers Mine! We were visiting from Florida and made it a point to stop here while driving through Aspen on our way to Marble, and I'm so glad we did. The tour was fantastic my 9 year old was thrilled and asked our guide a ton of questions. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the mine’s fascinating history and the different types of rocks we saw. Honestly, it exceeded my expectations! The length of the tour was just perfect, really enjoyed the timing and felt it was a great experience without feeling rushed.

Taylor B.

Google

he Smuggler Mine Tour in Aspen is a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich mining history and a great off-the-beaten-path experience. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and clearly passionate about the stories behind the mine, from its boomtown days to how it operates today. Walking through the tunnels gives you a real sense of what life must have been like for miners over a century ago. The tour is fairly short but packed with interesting facts, photos, and old equipment, making it both educational and fun. It’s also nice that it’s just a short drive from downtown Aspen. If you’re interested in Aspen’s history or just looking for something unique beyond the ski slopes, the Smuggler Mine Tour is definitely worth checking out!

Lynn S.

Google

Seven family members went on the Smuggler Mine tour Friday and each one of us thought it was excellent. It was truly very interesting, with a lot of information about mining and the history of Aspen, presented by a guide named Stuart, who did a great job. He kept the conversation relaxed, answered lots of questions, and was very personable. We highly recommend this tour, and think anyone would be fascinated with the experience of getting to be in the mine.

Heather I.

Google

Fantastic experience! Took my son who is 7 and we both loved it. Highly recommend, something unique and different. Price is right. I may not recommend for elderly or anyone who needs assistance walking. You are walking on one tracks and going up a couple of ladders.

Mariya M.

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.

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.

Mike M.

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

Mani V.

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