Gold Camp Road: A Historic and Haunted Journey Through Colorado's Mining Past
Experience the thrill of Gold Camp Road: History, scenery, and spooky legends await in the heart of Colorado's mining country.
Gold Camp Road, nestled in the mountains near Colorado Springs, is a captivating blend of history, adventure, and mystery. Originally built in the 1880s as part of the Colorado Midland Railway, the road served as a crucial link between the booming gold mines of Cripple Creek and Colorado Springs. Known as the “Short Line,” the railway transported precious metals, supplies, and passengers through a series of tunnels carved into the mountains. As mining declined and automobiles gained popularity, the railway was abandoned in 1922 and converted into a scenic toll road in 1924. In 1939, it became a free public road. Today, Gold Camp Road attracts visitors with its breathtaking views, thrilling drives, and chilling ghost stories. The road winds through Pike National Forest, offering panoramic vistas of towering rock formations, deep valleys, and dense forests. However, the road is also known for its haunted reputation, with many visitors claiming to have experienced paranormal activity within the tunnels. One of the most well-known legends involves a collapsed tunnel (Tunnel #3) and a school bus filled with children. Although there are no official records of such an event, some claim to have heard whispers, seen shadowy figures, or felt an eerie presence in the tunnels. Despite the ghostly tales, Gold Camp Road remains a popular destination for those seeking a unique and thrilling excursion into Colorado's past. Hikers, bikers, and motorcyclists can explore the area, with trails leading to the remaining tunnels and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Local tips
- Drive carefully, as the road is narrow and winding with steep drops in some areas.
- Check road conditions before you go, especially during winter months, as the road may be closed due to snow.
- Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the tunnels, as they can be dark and narrow.
- Be mindful of other travelers, including hikers, bikers, and motorcyclists, as the road is shared by all.
- Consider visiting during the fall to witness the stunning autumn colors along the route.
A brief summary to Gold Camp Rd
- Colorado, US
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Gold Camp Road from Colorado Springs, begin by heading west on Cheyenne Road to Cheyenne Canyon Road. Continue up the mountain. Gold Camp Road's eastern end is blocked due to a tunnel collapse. To access the open portion of the road, follow Old Stage Road. Old Stage Road merges into Gold Camp Road. Continue to follow Gold Camp Road. There are no tolls to access Gold Camp Road.
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Biking/Hiking
To access Gold Camp Road for hiking and biking, start from the Upper Gold Camp parking lot (4415 Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906). From the parking lot, Upper Gold Camp Road begins at the west end where you'll see a gate. The first tunnel is closed, requiring a detour over the hill. Continue along the trail to explore the open tunnels and enjoy the scenery.
