Bachelor Loop Scenic Tour

The town of Creede was born and nearly died in the short silver boom of the early 1890s. Mining did continue off and on, and to this day it infuses the soul of this little town. A nationally-recognized repertory theater (formed over 50 years ago) has brought new life and prosperity to Creede. The Underground Mining Museum is an excellent introduction to mining, and the Bachelor Loop is a journey through time to the mining roots of Creede.

An excellent tour guide pamphlet is available from the visitor center in town, and the tour starts at a disply next to this building. But the real tour starts where the pavement ends in the dramatic Willow Creek Canyon at the north end of town. The tour goes 17 miles, all on dirt roads that are fine for any vehicles. Dozens of mines dotted this canyon, exploiting the rich silver deposits of the Amethyst Vein. Remnants of several of these are visible on the tour with names like Commodore, Amethyst, Park Regent, Last Chance, Bachelor and Bulldog. The Last Chance Mine is definitely worth a stop. They offer mine tours, lodging in a few cabins, and spectacular views of Willow Creek Canyon. The short detour up the canyon to the Equity Mine site is really worthwhile for the beautiful views and the chance to spot moose in the beaver ponds below the mine.