IDAHO SPRINGS, Colorado – A brand new gondola broke ground in Idaho Springs this summer, as the Mighty Argo Cable Car Company is set to build a 22 glass cabin, 1.2 mile system heading east up the mountains from the Mighty Argo Mill. If you’ve ever driven Colorado’s I-70, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the striking red mill standing out among the mountains. Maybe you’ve even stopped there before. But soon you’ll have even more of a reason to check out the historic landmark.
According to the Clear Creek Courant, the cable car, designed by Doppelmeyer, will feature 22 glass cabins with a capacity of up to 10 people per cabin. It’ll travel 1,300 feet in elevation over the 1.2 mile ride, taking riders to a location called “Miners Point” high in the mountains.
“The idea of the cable car and people aged from 0-to-100 being able to access the outdoors… I think it’s a true Colorado experience and the City of Idaho Springs is a true partner and we’re getting ahead of the future, basically. It’s just going to be stunning.” – Argo owner Mary Jane Loevlie
Plans currently have the Argo Cable Car costing $30 per person, but local residents of Idaho Springs will be able to ride it for free, excluding certain blackout dates. Also, 50 cents of every ticket sale goes towards the construction of mountain bike paths around the Argo. Additionally, 450 acres of free hiking and biking will be available to locals once the project is complete.
“The mountain top Argo Landing will feature pedestrian plazas, viewing decks, an observation trestle, creative food and beverage options, an amphitheater and a facility that will be used for weddings, receptions, retreats and kids camps. A nature trail will traverse the mountain and lead to picnic areas with scenic views of four fourteeners.” – The Argo
An opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but it seems like it will be running at some point in 2025.