Just minutes from downtown Aspen, tucked into the side of Smuggler Mountain, lies one of the area’s most unique experiences: the Smuggler Mine Tour. It’s not your usual tourist hike or lookout point, it’s a real mine with stories, shafts, and character.
Here’s why this tour deserves more attention, and why it may just become your favorite Aspen adventure.
1. Real History Beneath Your Feet
- The tour ventures 1,200 feet into the original tunnels used by miners during Aspen’s silver boom. You’re walking the actual passages carved by early prospectors, not reconstructed replicas.
- You’ll see original shafts, tools, and learn about the resilience, ingenuity, and risks of mining life in the 1800s. From collapse threats to the evolution of mining techniques, the history is raw and immersive.
2. Easy Access, Big Impact
- Only 2 minutes from downtown Aspen, the mine is super accessible. No long drives or extreme hikes.
- The tour is mild in adventure level: it’s suitable for families and most ages (minimum age 6 years) — you’ll climb a few ladders, walk on rocky grounds, but you won’t need technical gear.
- Duration is just about 1.5 hours, so it fits nicely into half-day itineraries without taking over your whole afternoon or morning.
3. Something Different From the Outdoors Norm
Everyone expects Aspen to be about hiking, skiing, rafting, or SUP. The Smuggler Mine Tour gives a break, smoke, sweat, and heart-pumping rapids aside, it’s history indoors, literally under the mountain.
- It provides contrast: a cool, damp environment (around 55‑60°F inside year-round) between hot, sunny summers. Great if you want to mix your adventure days.
- Guides tell stories that tie into Aspen’s identity, from the silver rush to uranium and how miners shaped the town. If you like geology, heritage, or just curious tales, this delivers.
4. A Tour Built for Comfort & Insight
- The group size is manageable; guides are knowledgeable and lead you carefully through safe tunnels.
- Safety and comfort accounted for: you get head protection (hard hat), plus clear advice on what to wear (closed‑toe shoes; bring a light jacket).
- It’s affordable and predictable: fixed schedule (10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m.), seasonal May–October, with clear what‑to‑bring list.
5. Hidden Gems & Local Value
- Least crowded during mid‑week or shoulder seasons, so you often feel like you have the place (or parts of it) to yourself.
- It pairs nicely with other nearby Aspen adventures: combine with rafting, SUP, fishing, or hiking in one day.
- It’s a local treasure: often overlooked by visitors focused only on the outdoors; yet deeply connects you to Aspen’s story in a way that trailheads don’t.
The Smuggler Mine Tour isn’t just another Aspen attraction — it’s a bridge between adventure and history. Mild in risk, rich in story, and close to home, it’s Aspen’s best-kept secret for good reasons.
If you haven’t already, book the Smuggler Mine Tour. Whether you’re a visitor or local, this is one of those adventures that sticks with you.
Smuggler Mine FAQs
What should I wear for the Smuggler Mine Tour?
Closed‑toe shoes, a light jacket or sweatshirt. Temperatures inside stay around 55‑60°F year-round.
How long is the tour?
About 1.5 hours total, including walk‑in, exploration inside, and a guide’s narration.
Is it appropriate for kids?
Yes — children age 6 and up are welcome. It’s family‑friendly though some sections involve ladders and uneven terrain.
When is the tour offered?
Seasonally from May through October, with start times at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm.
Where is the Smuggler Mine located?
Right near Aspen, at 100 Smuggler Mountain Road. Just minutes from downtown.
