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Ashcroft Ghost Town: A Silver Mining Relic

Step back in time at Ashcroft Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado, offering a glimpse into the Wild West era.

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Explore the remnants of Ashcroft, a once-booming silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado. Founded in 1880, Ashcroft briefly rivaled Aspen in size and importance before its silver veins petered out, leaving behind a fascinating ghost town. Today, visitors can wander through the preserved buildings and imagine life in the Wild West.

A brief summary to Ashcroft Ghost Town

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months for guided tours and access to all buildings.
  • Check the Aspen Historical Society's website for updated hours and event information.
  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking is limited.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Aspen, head west on CO-82 to the roundabout. Take the third exit onto Castle Creek Road. Drive 11 miles up Castle Creek Road. The Ashcroft Ghost Town parking lot will be on the left. Parking is limited. Admission is $5 for adults; children 18 and under are free.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus from Aspen towards Ashcroft Ghost Town. Check the RFTA schedule for the most up-to-date route and stop information. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the entrance of Ashcroft Ghost Town. Admission is $5 for adults; children 18 and under are free. A one-way bus fare from Aspen to a stop near Ashcroft is approximately $3-6.

Unlock the Best of Ashcroft Ghost Town

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Discover more about Ashcroft Ghost Town

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.

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