8 things to do in 'Wild West' Colorado town called 'the last great place to drink and fight'

As a historic mining town in the San Juan Mountains that was once called 'the last great place to drink and fight', Creede is a scenic and intriguing destination. From its local theater and plenty of history to mining ruins and adventurous hikes, the town is filled with things to do and summer is the perfect time to visit.

Here are eight great ways to spend your time in Creede:

1. See a show at the Creede Repertory Theatre

Creede Repertory Theatre was founded in 1966 and is now a nationally recognized theater that serves over 20,000 patrons during the summer season and 37,000 young people through its educational outreach program. As of the closing of the Homestake Mine in 1985, CRT is Mineral County's largest summer employer and has an annual economic impact of nearly $3 million locally and over $4 million to Colorado.

The theater's schedule allows visitors to see five different plays in one week, as the theater "dedicates itself to a variety of plays in one season."

2. Take the alternate route for San Luis Peak or explore the Colorado Trail

Find the start to the 'South Ridge' route to the summit of San Luis Peak about nine miles north of Creede. The same trailhead is also an access point for the Colorado Trail, making Creede a common place for thru-hikers to make a pitstop for supplies.

3. Bachelor Loop Historic Drive

The Bachelor Loop Historic Drive is a 17-mile drive that takes visitors through the historic mining area situated above Creede. Those on this route will see mine locations from the 1890s and abandoned ghost towns along the way. Wooden timbers mark interpretive stops and points of interest throughout the drive. Visitors will also be treated to stunning views of the mountains surrounding the area.

4. Check out the historic downtown

Creede's seven-block downtown area is home to a variety of historic buildings that date back to the town's silver mining era. The Pillars of Hercules, volcanic cliffs that rise nearly a thousand feet, provide a stunning backdrop to the shops, galleries, and restaurants of the downtown area. Visitors can pick up self-guided tour booklets at the Creede Historical Museum and enjoy exploring the area.

5. Visit the North Clear Creek Falls

This waterfall is located along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway off Highway 149. Falling over 100 feet, the waterfall makes for an impressive stop. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the area also has picnic tables and trails to an overlook. 

6. Tour the Last Chance Mine

Last Chance Mine was founded in 1891 and is an important part of Creede's silver mining history. Jack Morris bought the mine from the Granger family in 1998 and has worked to preserve it and bring it back to its original condition.

The mine offers tours in which visitors will learn about the mine's historic past and geology, as well as see the Amethyst Vein which contains amethyst, sowbelly agate, and silver. Tours depart from the gift shop beginning at 10:30 a.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m., lasting about 40 minutes. The mine reopens on Memorial Day Weekend.

7. See the Wheeler Geologic Area

If you're looking to explore the wilderness around Creede, this is the perfect activity for you. Wheeler Geologic Area is accessible via a long hike or a rough four-wheel drive road. The time it takes to get there is worth it though, as you'll be rewarded with views of a geologic formation of volcanic rock eroded into shapes like towers and spires. The U.S. Forest Service recommends taking a whole day to visit Wheeler, as it is a difficult trip.

8. Creede Underground Mining Museum

Located completely underground, this museum is a real example of the methods and techniques used for mining during Creede's silver rush. Three Creede miners blasted solid rock cliff in 1990, creating space for the museum. Although it was never used for the commercial production of silver, the museum includes 22 displays featuring mining equipment and artifacts, a gift shop, and the Creede Community Center. The museum now offers guided tours led by retired miners.