For Brittney and Alex's Colorado mountain engagement photos they wanted to incorporate their love of the mountains and their love of wandering mountain towns. I jumped at the idea and knew some great spots to capture a lot of variety for them. Little did I know that we would also encounter some baby mountain sheep and an incredible sunset.
We started out in Idaho Springs. It's one of those small mining towns that is rather close to Denver bt was never "trendy" enough to become a tourist location overrun with upscale development. As such, many of the historic buidlings and houses in town have been preseved and original.
Here is a little history on Idaho Springs. Idaho Springs was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush after placer gold was discovered in Clear Creek in 1859 by prospectors traveling through the area. The town quickly became one of Colorado’s earliest mining communities and played a major role in the development of the Rocky Mountain mining industry. Rich veins of gold and silver later attracted larger mining operations, helping the town grow into a bustling mountain hub connected by railroads and wagon routes. Idaho Springs is also famously associated with the invention of the gold ore “cyanide process” by metallurgist Nathaniel P. Hill, which revolutionized gold extraction in the late 1800s. Today, the historic downtown, Victorian architecture, and nearby hot springs preserve the town’s legacy as one of Colorado’s iconic mining-era destinations.
Located just west of Denver in the Rocky Mountains, Idaho Springs is packed with mining history, mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, and classic Colorado charm. Whether you're stopping through on I-70 or planning a weekend getaway, here are five fun things to experience in town.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Idaho Springs, the Argo Mill and Tunnel offers visitors a fascinating look into Colorado’s gold mining history. Guided tours walk you through the old stamp mill, mining equipment, and the famous tunnel system that once connected nearby mines deep beneath the mountains.
After a day exploring the mountains, soak in the geothermal mineral waters at Indian Hot Springs. The facility features indoor tropical pools, private baths, caves, and outdoor jacuzzis surrounded by mountain scenery. It’s one of the oldest hot springs destinations in Colorado.
Idaho Springs is famous for mountain pies, and Beau Jo’s is a local institution. Their thick Colorado-style crust pizzas are legendary, but the restaurant also offers sandwiches, salads, and local beer in a lively mountain-town atmosphere.
During the summer months, visitors can take one of the highest paved roads in North America up Mount Blue Sky. The scenic drive features alpine lakes, mountain goats, sweeping views, and hiking opportunities above 14,000 feet. Idaho Springs serves as the perfect gateway to the route.
The historic downtown district is filled with old brick buildings, antique shops, coffee houses, breweries, and mountain outfitters. Strolling Miner Street gives visitors a glimpse into the town’s gold rush roots while enjoying modern local businesses and restaurants.
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As with all my couples, I always say wear good shoes and bring water. Little did these two know we'd actually wander up and down the mountain at 12,000 feet. I am accustomed to the altitude since I grew up in Colorado, but these two were having a little trouble. It also didn't help the wind on top of the mountain was crazy cold. At one spot we found they climbed up on these rocks and then were surprised by a giant pile of mountain sheep poop in this tiny pocket in the rocks. You can see Brittney's face and Alex's disgust in the image. It's funny, so I included it here. That is part of the experience. All those funny unintentional moments and also the ones with amazing light. Oh the weird little things you find.
Just as we approched a good summit outlook as the sun was setting, a mountain sheep with a tiny baby also came to enjoy the view while having a snack. That was a unique and special moment moment.
Oh and that sunset. WOW! It was great and was perfectly carving through the valley lighting up the mountain ridges and lake below. If it could be sunset forever I would love it. But, would it be as special and rare? Probably not.
That being said, we had a great time wandering around Idaho Springs finding cool buildings with great color and texture and then playing in the trees along the river. Check out their journey below.
I am available for all of Colorado and destination weddings, elopements, and engagements. I love to wander.
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