Ghost Towns Colorado Map
Colorado is a state rich in history, and a great way to experience that history is by exploring the many ghost towns scattered throughout the state. Ghost towns are abandoned towns or villages that were once thriving communities, but have since been abandoned. These towns offer a glimpse into Colorado’s past and provide a unique travel experience. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports of ghost towns in Colorado.
Top Attractions
Colorado has a number of ghost towns that are worth visiting, but some of the top attractions include:
St. Elmo
St. Elmo is one of the most well-preserved ghost towns in Colorado. Visitors can see a number of historic buildings, including a general store, a hotel, and several homes.
Animas Forks
Animas Forks is another well-preserved ghost town that is worth visiting. One of the most interesting things about Animas Forks is that it is located at an elevation of 11,200 feet, making it one of the highest ghost towns in the United States.
Independence
Independence is a ghost town located in the San Juan Mountains. It was once a bustling mining town, but today visitors can see a number of historic buildings, including a general store, a saloon, and a hotel.
Hidden Gems
In addition to the top attractions, there are a number of hidden gems in Colorado’s ghost towns that are worth exploring. Some of these include:
Ashcroft
Ashcroft is a ghost town located near Aspen. It was once a silver mining town, but today visitors can see a number of well-preserved buildings, including a schoolhouse and a hotel.
Gothic
Gothic is a ghost town located in the Gunnison National Forest. It was once a mining town, but today visitors can see a number of historic buildings, including a general store and a post office.
Vicksburg
Vicksburg is a ghost town located near Buena Vista. It was once a mining town, but today visitors can see a number of well-preserved buildings, including a schoolhouse and a hotel.
Food Scene
While most of Colorado’s ghost towns do not have any restaurants or cafes, there are a number of towns nearby that offer great dining options. Some of the top restaurants in the area include:
The Brown Dog
The Brown Dog is a popular restaurant located in Telluride. It offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
The Silverton Brewery
The Silverton Brewery is a microbrewery located in Silverton. It offers a variety of beers, as well as a small menu of food items.
The Mint
The Mint is a restaurant located in Silverton that offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting Colorado’s ghost towns can be a budget-friendly experience if you plan ahead. Some budget-friendly tips include:
Bring your own food and water
Most ghost towns do not have any restaurants or cafes, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water.
Visit during the off-season
Visiting during the off-season can be a great way to save money, as many hotels and attractions offer lower prices during this time.
Look for free activities
Many ghost towns offer free activities, such as walking tours and hiking trails. These are a great way to explore the area without spending any money.
Outdoor Adventures
Colorado’s ghost towns offer a number of outdoor adventures, including:
Hiking
Many ghost towns are located in the mountains and offer a variety of hiking trails. Some of the top trails include the Alpine Tunnel Trail and the Animas Forks Trail.
Biking
Colorado is home to a number of great biking trails, including the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail.
Fishing
Many of Colorado’s ghost towns are located near rivers and streams that offer great fishing opportunities.
Historical Landmarks
Colorado’s ghost towns offer a unique glimpse into the state’s history and culture. Some of the top historical landmarks include:
The Teller House
The Teller House is a historic hotel located in Central City. It was once home to a number of famous guests, including Ulysses S. Grant and Horace Tabor.
The Old Hundred Gold Mine
The Old Hundred Gold Mine is located near Silverton and offers tours of an old gold mine. Visitors can see the mine’s original equipment and learn about the area’s mining history.
The Victor Hotel
The Victor Hotel is a historic hotel located in Victor. It was once home to a number of famous guests, including Teddy Roosevelt and Harry Houdini.
Family-Friendly Activities
Colorado’s ghost towns offer a number of family-friendly activities, including:
Mine Tours
Many ghost towns offer tours of old mines, which can be a great way to learn about Colorado’s mining history.
Wildlife Viewing
Colorado is home to a number of wildlife species, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. Many ghost towns are located near wildlife viewing areas.
Scavenger Hunts
Some ghost towns offer scavenger hunts, which can be a fun way for families to explore the area.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
In addition to the top attractions, there are a number of off-the-beaten-path experiences in Colorado’s ghost towns. Some of these include:
The Creede Repertory Theatre
The Creede Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre located in Creede. It offers a variety of shows throughout the year.
The Leadville Railroad
The Leadville Railroad is a historic train that runs through the mountains near Leadville. It offers a unique way to see the area’s natural beauty.
The Underground Tunnels
The underground tunnels in Cripple Creek offer a unique way to explore the town’s mining history. Visitors can see the tunnels that were once used to transport ore.
Natural Wonders
Colorado is home to a number of natural wonders, including:
The Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is a stunning natural park located near Colorado Springs. It features towering sandstone formations and a variety of hiking trails.
The Great Sand Dunes
The Great Sand Dunes are located near Alamosa and are the tallest sand dunes in North America. Visitors can hike to the top of the dunes for stunning views.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is located near Durango and is home to a number of ancient cliff dwellings. Visitors can see the dwellings and learn about the area’s Native American history.
Vibrant Nightlife
While most ghost towns do not offer much in the way of nightlife, there are a number of towns nearby that do. Some of the top nightlife spots include:
The Gold Pan Saloon
The Gold Pan Saloon is a historic saloon located in Breckenridge. It offers live music and a variety of drinks.
The Eldo Brewery and Taproom
The Eldo Brewery and Taproom is located in Crested Butte and offers a variety of craft beers.
The Red Dog Saloon
The Red Dog Saloon is a historic saloon located in Telluride. It offers a variety of drinks and hosts live music.
Local Markets
Colorado is home to a number of great local markets, including:
The Telluride Farmers Market
The Telluride Farmers Market is held every Friday during the summer and offers a variety of fresh produce and handmade crafts.
The Durango Farmers Market