Ashcroft Ghost Town, Elk Mountains Travel Guide

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Explore a well-preserved silver mining ghost town near Aspen, Colorado, and step back into the Wild West history.

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Ashcroft Ghost Town

Step back in time at Ashcroft Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado. Explore historic buildings and imagine life in the late 1800s during the silver boom. Once a bustling community, Ashcroft now offers a glimpse into the past with its well-maintained structures and stunning alpine scenery.

A brief summary to Ashcroft Ghost Town

Aspen, Colorado, 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 Ashcroft Ghost Town.

Visit during the summer or early fall for the best access and to chat with on-site docents.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
Bring a camera to capture the historic buildings and scenic views.
Check the Aspen Historical Society's website for updated hours and tour schedules.

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Explore Ashcroft Ghost Town on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

From Aspen, take CO-82 West to the roundabout on the edge of town. Take the third exit onto Castle Creek Road. Drive 11 miles up Castle Creek Road. A dirt parking lot will be on the left. Parking is limited, especially during peak season, so arrive early. There are no tolls on this route. Parking near Ashcroft Ghost Town is free.

Discover more about Ashcroft Ghost Town

Ashcroft Ghost Town, nestled in the Castle Creek Valley just a short drive from Aspen, Colorado, offers a captivating journey into the state's silver mining past. Founded in 1880 during the Colorado Silver Boom, Ashcroft quickly grew into a thriving town with a population of around 2,000, even rivaling Aspen in size. The town boasted hotels, saloons, a post office, and newspapers, serving as a transportation hub and social center for the region.However, Ashcroft's prosperity was short-lived. The silver mines proved to have shallow deposits, and the lack of a direct railway connection hindered its growth. As nearby Aspen flourished, Ashcroft's population dwindled, and by the early 20th century, it was largely abandoned. The last resident, Jack Leahy, passed away in 1939, solidifying Ashcroft's status as a ghost town.Today, the Aspen Historical Society preserves and manages Ashcroft, ensuring its remaining structures are maintained for visitors to explore. Visitors can wander through the town's main street, viewing the remnants of the Blue Mirror Saloon, the post office, and other buildings. Interpretive signs and seasonal docents share stories of the town's history and the lives of its former residents. Ashcroft Ghost Town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Ashcroft offers a unique opportunity to connect with Colorado's mining heritage and appreciate the natural beauty of the Castle Creek Valley.