Ashcroft Ghost Town
Step back in time at Ashcroft Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town offering a glimpse into Colorado's past amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Ashcroft Ghost Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Ashcroft Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town offering a glimpse into Colorado's past amidst stunning mountain scenery.
"This might be the best example of a maintained Ghost Town in Colorado!"
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Follow the crushed gravel path to explore the 9 restored buildings, with 6 accessible inside.
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive up Castle Creek Road is as beautiful as the destination itself.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored Historic Buildings
Main townsite
Step back in time exploring the authentically maintained buildings of this former silver mining boomtown.
Castle Creek Road Scenic Drive
Access road to Ashcroft
A breathtaking drive through the Elk Mountains, offering stunning vistas and a perfect prelude to the ghost town.
Pine Creek Cookhouse Trail
Trailhead from Ashcroft
Enjoy a beautiful walk or hike through aspen groves to a renowned backcountry dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Follow the crushed gravel path to explore the 9 restored buildings, with 6 accessible inside.
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive up Castle Creek Road is as beautiful as the destination itself.
💰 Donation Appreciated
Entry is free, but a $5 donation helps maintain this historic site.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning surroundings, especially if skipping the Pine Creek Cookhouse.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Follow the crushed gravel path to explore the 9 restored buildings, with 6 accessible inside.
🚗 Scenic Drive is Key
The drive up Castle Creek Road is as beautiful as the destination itself.
💰 Donation Appreciated
Entry is free, but a $5 donation helps maintain this historic site.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning surroundings, especially if skipping the Pine Creek Cookhouse.
🚻 Facilities Available
Restrooms are conveniently located at the parking lot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ashcroft Ghost Town for its well-maintained historic buildings and the passionate staff who share its stories. The scenic drive and beautiful mountain setting are also major highlights, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Some find the site itself brief to explore, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"Worth the drive!
This might be the best example of a maintained Ghost Town in Colorado!
It is a very well-ran site with passionate, informed hosts and many educational placards with photos and stories of the real people who lived in Ashcroft.
The remaining original buildings are maintained and reinforced in a way that doesn't take away from the original building, but focuses on waterproofing and load-bearing, which will help keep these fantastic relics of the past visible and interactive for many years to come.
It's easy to tell that a lot of hard work, time, resources, and love has gone into maintaining this piece of Colorado history. ❤️"
Regina Guccione
"What a cool stop! I rode my bike up Castle Creek Road with friends and we stopped to explore Ashcroft. As you walk down the path, there are several thoughtfully restored buildings, some which you can go inside. Placards provide historical stories of the town. There’s a bathroom at the parking lot. A finely crushed gravel path makes it accessible. It’s a short walk and fitting for young kids."
Teresa Pennington
"The site itself is not really exciting, but when you come at right time, the background of the site is very beautiful, the additional history and culture make it very interesting. I even saw people taking wedding pictures here. The nearby Castle Creek is also nice."
Zemin Hu (old skool boy)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ashcroft Ghost Town is located about 11 miles from Aspen, Colorado, along Castle Creek Road. The drive is scenic and the road is paved, making it accessible for most vehicles. Allow about 20-30 minutes for the drive.
Public transport options directly to Ashcroft Ghost Town are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services from Aspen if you don't have your own car.
The road, Castle Creek Road, is paved and generally well-maintained. However, it can be winding as it ascends into the mountains.
Castle Creek Road is typically closed to public vehicles in winter due to snow. Access is usually limited to snowmobiles or cross-country skis. Check local conditions before planning a winter visit.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Ashcroft Ghost Town site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ashcroft Ghost Town is free. However, a donation of around $5 is requested to help with the preservation and maintenance of the site.
Ashcroft Ghost Town is generally accessible during daylight hours, as it is an outdoor historical site. There are no strict opening or closing times for the grounds themselves.
The ghost town site is accessible year-round, but road conditions can vary significantly, especially in winter. The paved road is usually open from late spring through fall.
While there aren't always formal guided tours, knowledgeable staff or volunteers may be present to offer insights and answer questions. Informational placards are also available throughout the site.
Dogs are generally allowed in outdoor historical sites like Ashcroft Ghost Town, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for the most current information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the well-preserved buildings of the former silver mining town, read historical placards, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. The nearby trails offer opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the main ghost town area. If you plan to hike the surrounding trails, you could easily spend half a day or more.
Yes, Ashcroft Ghost Town is very suitable for children. The short, accessible path and the intriguing history of a ghost town make it an engaging experience for younger visitors.
Informational placards with photos and stories of the town's residents are placed throughout the site, providing insights into its boom-and-bust history.
Several of the original buildings have been thoughtfully restored and reinforced for preservation, allowing visitors to enter some of them. They are maintained to be safe for exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The restored buildings against the backdrop of the Elk Mountains offer fantastic photo opportunities. The scenic drive up Castle Creek Road also provides numerous picturesque viewpoints.
Yes, the unique historical setting and beautiful natural surroundings make Ashcroft Ghost Town a popular spot for wedding photography.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most flattering light for photography, highlighting the textures of the buildings and the mountain landscape.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the site administrators or local authorities regarding drone operation policies before flying.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the buildings and the expansive landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for interior shots or sweeping mountain views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit engaging by turning it into a scavenger hunt for historical details or imagining life in the olden days. The short duration of exploring the town itself is perfect for maintaining kids' attention spans, and the scenic drive offers beautiful views that can keep them entertained.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Plan for about an hour to explore the town and take photos, or longer if you intend to hike one of the nearby trails. It's a perfect way to break up a longer journey and experience a piece of Colorado's rich mining history without a significant time commitment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Ashcroft
In the mid-20th century, efforts began to preserve Ashcroft. Today, it stands as a testament to Colorado's mining past, with many of its original structures thoughtfully restored and maintained. Informational placards throughout the site offer glimpses into the lives of the miners and their families who once called Ashcroft home, making it a valuable educational stop for history enthusiasts.
The surrounding landscape also plays a significant role in Ashcroft's appeal. Nestled at the base of the Elk Mountains, the area is known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant aspen groves that turn brilliant gold in the fall. This combination of history and scenery makes Ashcroft a unique destination.
Exploring the Trails Around Ashcroft
For those seeking a more strenuous hike, the trail to Ute Rock provides a good workout with rewarding views. The entire Castle Creek Valley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the serene mountain environment.
When planning your trail adventures, remember to check trail conditions, especially outside of the summer months. Always carry water, snacks, and appropriate gear. The natural beauty surrounding Ashcroft is a major draw, and exploring the trails is a fantastic way to experience it fully.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit