They were wild places, full of desperate and hopeful miners all looking to get rich, with brothels and saloons galore. The towns of Black Hawk and Central City were founded not long after.
The area became known as the Clear Creek Mining District, and so much gold was mined from the hills and mountains there that it was given the illustrious nickname, “The Richest Square Mile on Earth.” Within just a couple of short months, the population of the area grew to over ten thousand people, all of whom were searching to make their fortune. Gregory found gold dust while he was panning in Clear Creek, in a gulch now known as Gregory Gulch in his honor. The Historic Casinos of Clear Creek Countyĭuring the mid 19th century, in a small patch of mountainous land less than fifty miles from Denver, a very lucky prospector named John H. Try your luck in one of Colorado’s casino towns, and see if you can strike gold. Since it was partially legalized in 1990, gambling is only allowed in three towns in Colorado: Central City, Black Hawk, and Cripple Creek, but in each of those towns are some of the most unforgettable gaming experiences you’ll find anywhere. The days of mining gold from the Rockies is, for the most part, behind us, but luckily for you, there’s still a way to get rich in Colorado.
