Independence Ghost Town, Colorado River Valley Travel Guide

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Step back in time at Independence Ghost Town, a preserved 1880s mining town along scenic Independence Pass near Aspen, Colorado.

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Independence Ghost Town

Explore the remains of Independence, a once-thriving mining town nestled high in the Rockies along Independence Pass. Founded in 1879, the town boomed briefly before being deserted by the late 1890s due to harsh conditions and dwindling gold deposits. Today, visitors can wander through the preserved buildings and imagine life in this isolated 1880s community.

A brief summary to Independence Ghost Town

35241-, 36221 CO-82, Aspen, CO, 81611, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Independence Ghost Town.

Independence Pass (Highway 82) closes in winter, typically from late October/early November to late May/early June. Check road conditions before you go.
Bring water and sunscreen, as the area is exposed and the altitude is high.
Stay on marked trails to protect the archaeological site.
Consider visiting in July or September for the best weather.

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Explore Independence Ghost Town on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

Independence Ghost Town is located on Highway 82, approximately 16 miles southeast of Aspen. From Aspen, follow Highway 82 towards Independence Pass. The ghost town is situated between the highway and the Roaring Fork River, about 4 miles before the summit of Independence Pass. Look for the off-road public parking area. Note that Independence Pass is typically closed from late October/early November until late May/early June.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Independence Ghost Town, you can take the RFTA bus from Aspen to a stop along Highway 82 and then walk or bike the remaining distance. Several RFTA bus routes operate along Highway 82. From Rubey Park in Aspen, take the Burlingame/HWY 82 route. Get off at a suitable stop and prepare for a walk. Check the RFTA website for schedules and stops. Bus fare within Aspen is free.

Discover more about Independence Ghost Town

Independence Ghost Town offers a fascinating look into Colorado's fleeting gold rush era. Founded on July 4th, 1879, the town quickly grew to a population of around 1,500, boasting over 40 businesses, including saloons, stores, and even a newspaper. The town's remote location at nearly 11,000 feet above sea level presented numerous challenges, including long, harsh winters and isolation.By the late 1880s, the easily accessible gold deposits were depleted, and residents began to leave for more promising opportunities in Aspen and elsewhere. The final blow came in 1899 when a severe blizzard forced the remaining residents to abandon the town. Today, the ghost town is an archaeological preserve maintained by the Aspen Historical Society and the U.S. Forest Service. Visitors can explore the remnants of the town, including the Farwell Stamp Mill, a general store, and several residences. Interpretive signs provide insights into the town's history and the lives of its former residents. Please remember to stay on marked trails and refrain from removing any artifacts.