Move over Aspen! This rustic mountain town is Colorado’s best-kept secret winter getaway

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Unless you’re ready to collect coins under your pillows, Aspen may be out of the question for a wonderful winter getaway.

Aspen is one of Colorado’s many beautiful mountain towns that come with a hefty price tag to enjoy a magical wonderland of snow-capped slopes and Quality mark cityscapes that are decorated to perfection for the holidays.

To make matters even more challenging, you’ll likely have to fly into typically more expensive small airports to get here unless you want to deal with the hassle of snow chains to navigate the winding, icy roads of the Rockies.

There is an unsung mountain town just 52 miles from Denvermaking your Colorado dream come true with more wallet-friendly rateseasier access, less crowdsand a more homely welcome than the usual hotspots.

Turn back the clock in downtown Idaho Springs

Don’t get it twisted – Idaho Springs may very well be a city in Colorado, not a secret suburb of Boise.

After about a 40-minute drive on minimal highways, you’ll be cozying up by the fire in a rustic lodge in no time.

Idaho Springs evokes a sense of nostalgia from the moment you first see it, taking visitors back to the Gold Rush era, when this city buzzed with gold seekers hoping to strike it rich.

Exudes authentic Old West vibesRather than purposefully constructed tourist traps, Idaho Springs is the real deal when it comes to the state’s mountain heritage.

In fact, the city’s ‘#1 attraction’ is the Argo milla 19th century gold mine that offers insightful tours of the glory days of the gold rush.

Instead of eyesore chains, expect more Mom ‘n Pop restaurants, local boutiquesand an array of classic inns where you can rest your head at night and wake up in prime real estate to wander the centuries-old legendary strip or venture out into breathtaking nature.

A local guide highlights Beau Jo’s Pizza as an absolute must-stop for their thick “mountain cakes” drizzled with honey, but we at Travel Off Path go the extra mile by recommending them Big B’s soup and grilled cheese —nothing nourishes your soul in the grip of winter like a piping hot bowl of soup and ooey-gooey grilled cheese.

Warm up in the geothermal waters of Idaho Springs

Sunshine or snowfall, Idaho Springs’ springs are ready to keep you warm or warm up – whatever the doctor orders.

Located on a natural network of geothermal springs bubbling deep beneath the Rockies, this is the ultimate way to relax here in the city.

The water has been attracting visitors since the 19th century and stays naturally warm all year round, hovering between 100 and 110 degrees, without having to foot the bill for your water heater. Isn’t that nice?

This “healing water,” as the Native Americans called it, is said to ease everything from sore legs on skis, bumps and bruises from river rafting, to a case of too many craft beers the night before.

One of the most unique aspects of these particular springs are the geothermal caves, which are hotter and warmer for adults only.

Otherwise, expect a mix of indoor pools, private pools and open-air jacuzzis.

Reservations are recommended during the holiday period. If you brave the winter cold, the Indian sources complex is a short walk from the center and a great place to stay with rooms as low as $139.

Is nature worth braving in winter?

The hot springs are an easy sell, but what about the beautiful natural curtain that surrounds Idaho Springs’ old-world charm?

Those up for a road trip may have visited Mount Evans Scenic Byway for unparalleled mountain views, as it’s said you can see more than 100 miles on clear days.

But once the first heavy snow hits, this road becomes too sketchy to navigate, so it’s best to return in late spring.

There’s one surprising natural attraction that remains a stunner all year round: St. Mary’s Glacier. This alpine wonder defies the seasons, retains its snow cover all year round and impresses visitors with sparkling waters beneath its dizzying peaks.

Unfortunately, weather conditions do not permit winter whitewater rafting, one of Idaho Springs’ top attractions in the sunnier seasons.

Meanwhile, soak in the hot springs, immerse yourself in timeless charm, and relax by the fireplace in a historic bed and breakfast.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.

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