Independence Ghost Town, Rocky Mountains Travel Guide

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Discover a preserved Colorado mining town near Aspen. Explore historic buildings and imagine life in the 1880s.

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Independence Ghost Town

Explore the remains of Independence, a ghost town nestled high in the Rockies, 16 miles southeast of Aspen. Founded in 1879 during a gold rush, it quickly faded as mines dried up and harsh winters took their toll. Today, visitors can wander through the skeletal remains of buildings and imagine life in a boom-and-bust mining town.

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.

Check road closures on CO-82 (Independence Pass) before visiting, as it's typically closed in winter.
Visit between mid-June and Labor Day for guided tours and the best weather.
Bring water and sunscreen, as the area is open and the sun can be intense.
Stay on marked trails to protect the archaeological site.
Consider combining your visit with a hike on nearby trails for added adventure.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Independence Ghost Town on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Independence Ghost Town, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Independence Ghost Town is located on Highway 82, approximately 16 miles southeast of Aspen. From Aspen, drive east on 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. Off-road public parking is available near the site. Note that Independence Pass is typically closed from late October/early November until late May/early June due to snow. During the open season, be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Independence Ghost Town, you can take a RFTA (Roaring Fork Transportation Authority) bus from Aspen towards Independence Pass and get off at a suitable point along Highway 82, and walk to the site. However, this would involve a significant walk along the highway. Alternatively, take the free bus from Rubey Park in Aspen to Brush Creek Park & Ride. From there, you could consider using a taxi or rideshare service to reach Independence Ghost Town. A taxi from Aspen Airport to Aspen is estimated to cost $18-22. A taxi from the Brush Creek Park and Ride to Independence would likely be more, in the range of $30-$40.

Discover more about Independence Ghost Town

Independence Ghost Town, located 16 miles southeast of Aspen on Highway 82, offers a fascinating look into Colorado's mining history. Established in July 1879, the town boomed briefly after a significant gold strike, initially named Beldon tent camp before being renamed Independence. By 1882, it had a population of around 1,000, supported by over 40 businesses, including saloons, stores, and even a newspaper, the *Independence Miner*.Life in Independence, situated at an elevation of 10,900 feet, was challenging. The harsh climate, with snow covering the ground from October to May, and the isolation made survival difficult. The town's gold deposits were shallow and quickly depleted. By 1888, Aspen's burgeoning silver mines lured away many residents, and Independence's population dwindled to under 100. A severe blizzard in 1899 forced nearly all remaining residents to abandon the town, seeking refuge in Aspen.Today, Independence 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, boarding houses, and a stable. Interpretive signs provide insights into the town's history and the lives of its residents. The site is located on Independence Pass, along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, offering stunning alpine scenery. Note that Independence Pass (Highway 82) is typically closed from around Halloween to Memorial Day due to heavy snowfall.