Ashcroft Ghost Town: A Silver Mining Relic

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 during the silver boom, Ashcroft quickly transformed from a small camp into a bustling town with a population of around 2,000, even exceeding Aspen in size at one point. The town boasted hotels, saloons, a post office 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. As Aspen flourished, Ashcroft declined, and by the late 1880s, many residents had moved on. The last resident, Jack Leahy, passed away in 1939. Today, the Aspen Historical Society preserves Ashcroft, ensuring its remaining structures stand as a testament to the past. Visitors can explore several original buildings, including the Blue Mirror Saloon, the post office, and the hotel. Interpretive signs and seasonal docents share stories of this once-thriving community. While the road to Ashcroft remains open year-round, winter access may require an AWD vehicle or tire chains.