Gilpin County, Administrative division in north central Colorado, United States.
Gilpin County is an administrative division in the mountains west of Denver in north central Colorado. The area spans mountainous terrain with several peaks, including James Peak as the highest point.
The county was established in 1861 as one of seventeen original Colorado Territory counties and named after Colonel William Gilpin, the first territorial governor. The region experienced rapid growth during the 19th-century gold rush as a mining hub.
Central City and Black Hawk were once mining towns and now host casinos after Colorado legalized gambling in these locations. The historic buildings from the mining era still shape the towns' appearance and reflect their former economic purpose.
Visitors can explore the historic mining towns of Central City and Black Hawk, which are surrounded by mountains and easily accessible by road from Denver. The best season to visit is autumn, when weather conditions are mild and the landscape displays rich colors.
The county directs a portion of gambling revenue from Black Hawk and Central City toward supporting historical preservation projects across Colorado. This system allows it to sustain the region's mining heritage while funding current needs.
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