The Stanley Mines, one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Colorado, could look very different in a year's time. A proposal aims at transforming the land into a mine-themed adventure park.
If you've ever driven along I-70, just west of Idaho Springs, you'll go past an iconic and historic piece of Colorado history: the Stanley Mines. The mine was closed off to the public in the 1980s, but it won't stay that way for long. A proposal has been submitted by a developer to transform the old mine property into The Stanley Mines Adventure Park. The $15 million project would take the 40-acre property and add a variety of thrill rides, including an aerial tram, alpine coaster, zip line, and a 700-foot mine shaft drop ride -- similar to the one at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park -- as well as a restaurant, beer garden, and more. There will also be several exhibits that focus on the mine's history. Lead developer Bruce Russell said, "We're building on that historic core -- it's fun, it's a very exciting kind of project." [gallery type="rectangular" size="large" ids="36701,36704,36700"]
Construction is expected to take anywhere from three to five years, though some of the rides and attractions could be operational as soon as Memorial Day weekend 2019.
But in order for that work to even start, the property must be rezoned from a mining district to a commercial tourism and recreation district. Two public hearings to discuss the proposal have also been scheduled, one on May 16 at 6:30 p.m. and the other on June 19 at 10:15 a.m. Both hearings will take place at the Idaho Springs City Hall.
So if you're interested in having your voice be heard, we encourage you to attend one of the meetings.
What do you think? Are you excited about the prospect of the old Stanley Mines site becoming an adventure park? Why or not? Have you been to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park? If so, which attractions did you go on? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's get the conversation started.