Background

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.

4.5

Explore the remains of Ashcroft, a once-booming silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado. Founded in 1880, Ashcroft quickly grew to rival Aspen before declining due to shallow silver deposits. Today, visitors can wander through the preserved buildings and imagine life in this historic ghost town.

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 or fall for the best access and weather. Castle Creek Road is generally open to vehicles up to Ashcroft year-round, but winter access may require a vehicle with AWD or tire chains.
  • Check the Aspen Historical Society's website for updated information on hours, events, and guided tour availability.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. The site has a rudimentary path, but rocky areas are present.
  • Bring a camera to capture the historic buildings and scenic mountain views.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Aspen, head west on CO-82 to the roundabout on the edge of town. 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 available in a dirt parking lot. Parking is limited, so arrive early. Admission is $5 per adult; children 18 and under are free. An honor system is in place during closed hours.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Ashcroft Ghost Town, you can take a Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus from Aspen to a connecting point and then use a taxi or ride-sharing service for the final leg of the journey. From Rubey Park in Aspen, take any RFTA bus to the Aspen Airport Business Center (ABC). From there, a taxi or ride-share to Ashcroft Ghost Town will cost approximately $30-$40. Confirm availability in advance. Admission to Ashcroft Ghost Town is $5 per adult; children 18 and under are free.

Unlock the Best of Ashcroft Ghost Town

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ashcroft Ghost Town

Ashcroft Ghost Town, nestled in the Castle Creek Valley just 11 miles south of Aspen, offers a captivating glimpse into Colorado's silver mining past. Founded in 1880, the town, originally known as Castle Forks City and then Chloride, boomed with the promise of silver, quickly growing to a population of around 2,000, even exceeding Aspen in size. Ashcroft boasted essential amenities such as hotels, saloons (reportedly up to 20), a school, and even two newspapers. However, Ashcroft's prosperity was short-lived. The silver veins proved shallow, and the lack of a railroad connection hindered its growth. By the late 1880s, the silver mines were depleted, and miners moved to more profitable locations. The silver market crash of 1893 further devastated the town. By 1912, the population dwindled to just 50 residents, and in 1939, Ashcroft officially became a ghost town after its last resident, Jack Leahy, passed away. Today, the Aspen Historical Society manages Ashcroft, preserving its remaining structures and sharing its stories. Visitors can explore several original buildings, including the Blue Mirror Saloon, the post office, and a two-story hotel. Interpretive signs provide insights into the town's history, and during the summer months, docents are available to offer guided tours. Though some believe the hotel is haunted, it provides a unique look into the past. Ashcroft is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Popular Experiences near Ashcroft Ghost Town

Popular Hotels near Ashcroft Ghost Town

Select Currency