Ashcroft Ghost Town: A Silver Mining Relic

Ashcroft Ghost Town, nestled in the Castle Creek Valley just 11 miles from Aspen, offers a captivating glimpse into Colorado's silver mining past. Founded in 1880 during the silver boom, Ashcroft quickly grew to a population of around 2,000, boasting hotels, saloons, a post office, and even two newspapers. For a short time, Ashcroft was larger and closer to the railroad than Aspen. However, Ashcroft's prosperity was short-lived. The shallow silver deposits dwindled, and the lack of a direct railway connection led to its decline. By the late 1880s, many residents had moved on to more promising mining locations, and by the early 20th century, Ashcroft was largely abandoned. The last resident, Jack Leahy, passed away in 1939. Today, the Aspen Historical Society preserves and manages Ashcroft, ensuring its legacy as a nationally registered historic site. Visitors can explore several original and relocated buildings, including the Blue Mirror Saloon, the post office, and the View Hotel. Interpretive signage and seasonal docents share stories of the town's boom and bust. While wandering through the town, visitors can appreciate the intricate log cabin construction and imagine daily life in this once-thriving community. Ashcroft is open to the public from late May to early October. In winter, the area transforms into a destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.