Ashcroft Ghost Town, Uncompahgre Plateau Travel Guide

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Step back in time at Ashcroft Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado.

Explore the remnants of Ashcroft, a once-booming silver mining town near Aspen, Colorado. Founded in 1880, Ashcroft quickly grew to rival Aspen before a silver crash and shallow deposits led to its abandonment. Today, visitors can wander through preserved buildings and imagine life in the Wild West.

A brief summary to Ashcroft Ghost Town

Aspen, Colorado, 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 Ashcroft Ghost Town.

Visit during the summer for guided tours and access to all buildings.
Check the Aspen Historical Society's website for updated hours and event information.
Be aware of the altitude (9,500 feet) and stay hydrated.
No dogs are permitted within the ghost town.

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Explore Ashcroft Ghost Town on the Map

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

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 dirt parking lot for Ashcroft Ghost Town will be on the left. Parking is limited, so arrive early. Admission is $5 per adult.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Ashcroft Ghost Town, you can take a bus towards Aspen Highlands and then use a taxi or ride-sharing service to cover the remaining distance to Ashcroft on Castle Creek Road. A taxi or ride-share from Aspen Highlands to Ashcroft will cost approximately $30-$40. Admission to the Ghost Town is $5.

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 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.