Background

Edwin Carter Museum: A Naturalist's Legacy

Explore the legacy of Edwin Carter, a gold miner turned naturalist, and his remarkable collection of Rocky Mountain wildlife in Breckenridge.

4.6

Step back in time at the Edwin Carter Museum, housed in Carter's original 1875 log cabin home. Discover the story of a gold miner turned self-taught naturalist, and his collection of Rocky Mountain wildlife that formed the basis of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

A brief summary to Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Local tips

  • Allow 30-90 minutes to fully experience the museum and its exhibits.
  • Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support the museum's operations.
  • Ask the docent for a guided tour to learn more about Edwin Carter and his collection.
  • Check the Breckenridge History website for current hours and special events.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Edwin Carter Museum is located at 111 N Ridge St, a short walk from Main Street in Breckenridge. From Main Street, walk north on Ridge Street for about 5 minutes. The museum will be on your left. Look for the log cabin with the 'Edwin Carter Museum' sign.

  • Public Transport

    Breckenridge offers a free bus service called the Free Ride. Check the local bus schedule for the Free Ride system. Take the Yellow Route towards the Breckenridge Transit Center. Get off at the stop for Main Street and then walk north on North Ridge Street for about 5 minutes to the museum. The bus is free.

  • Driving

    The Edwin Carter Museum is located at 111 N Ridge St, Breckenridge. From Park Avenue, turn onto North Ridge Street. There are a few designated parking spaces at the museum. Otherwise, there is street and town lot parking available. Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak season. Check the Breck Park website for information on parking locations and fees. Free parking options are available around the Town of Breckenridge.

Unlock the Best of Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

The Edwin Carter Museum in Breckenridge offers a glimpse into the life of Edwin Carter, a man who traded gold mining for naturalism in the late 19th century. Arriving in Breckenridge in 1868 during the Pike's Peak gold rush, Carter became concerned about the devastating impact of mining on the environment and local wildlife. He transformed his log cabin into a museum, showcasing over 3,000 taxidermied specimens of Rocky Mountain animals. Carter's collection became renowned, attracting scientists and curious tourists alike. His work documented abnormalities in local species caused by mining's environmental impact. After his death, Carter's collection became the foundation for the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The museum itself is housed in Carter's original log cabin home, providing an intimate setting for exploring his life and work. Visitors can view original examples of Carter's taxidermy, interactive displays, and exhibits detailing his conservation efforts. The museum also features a children's room and a theater. A visit to the Edwin Carter Museum offers a unique perspective on Breckenridge's history, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship.

Popular Experiences near Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Popular Hotels near Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Select Currency