Salida Smokestack Ohio-Colorado Smelter
A towering 365-foot brick smokestack, a free historical landmark offering a glimpse into Salida's industrial past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Salida Smokestack Ohio-Colorado Smelter
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A towering 365-foot brick smokestack, a free historical landmark offering a glimpse into Salida's industrial past.
"Cool stop just outside of Salida. There are a couple of historical panels telling you about the history of the smokestack. A quick stop and it's free!"
📸 Photo Opportunity
Capture the impressive scale of the smokestack against the Colorado sky.
🚶 Quick Detour
Perfect for a short, free stop if you're passing through Salida.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Immense Smokestack
Main viewing area
Marvel at the sheer scale of this 365-foot brick behemoth, a testament to early 20th-century industrial might.
Historical Information Panels
Base of the smokestack
Learn about the smelter's brief but impactful history and its construction, brick by brick.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the History, Stay Safe
A Glimpse into the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Has anyone done this or heard of someone climbing this?
📸 Photo Opportunity
Capture the impressive scale of the smokestack against the Colorado sky.
🚶 Quick Detour
Perfect for a short, free stop if you're passing through Salida.
⚠️ Safety First
Do not attempt to climb the structure; it's unsafe and not permitted.
📜 Read the Signs
The historical panels offer great context about the smelter's past.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunity
Capture the impressive scale of the smokestack against the Colorado sky.
🚶 Quick Detour
Perfect for a short, free stop if you're passing through Salida.
⚠️ Safety First
Do not attempt to climb the structure; it's unsafe and not permitted.
📜 Read the Signs
The historical panels offer great context about the smelter's past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Salida Smokestack a cool, free historical stop offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past. While not an extensive attraction, its sheer size and historical context make it a worthwhile detour for those passing through Salida. Some note it's a quick visit with not much else beyond the smokestack itself.
"Cool stop just outside of Salida. There are a couple of historical panels telling you about the history of the smokestack. A quick stop and it's free!"
Andrea Amos
"Super cool site! Don't be intimidated by all the industrial/commercial equipment on the way in. You're allowed to be there. Don't lick the dirt though lol"
L H
"Very interesting historic landmark. Very cool to get so close to such an iconic structure"
Megan comer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Salida Smokestack is located just outside of Salida, Colorado. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing you to the site. Many visitors report it as a straightforward drive-by attraction.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the base of the smokestack, allowing for easy access to the historical panels and viewing area.
While it's a short drive from Salida, walking might be a bit far depending on your starting point. The site itself is easily walkable once you arrive by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Salida Smokestack is completely free! It's a public historical landmark that anyone can visit without charge.
The Salida Smokestack is an outdoor historical site, so it's accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best viewing and photo opportunities.
There's no need to book tickets or make reservations, as admission is free and it's an open-access historical site.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for dramatic lighting. However, any time during daylight will offer good opportunities to capture its immense size.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and any posted signage at the site before flying a drone.
Wide-angle shots are great for capturing the entire smokestack. You can also get creative with shots that emphasize its height by including people or vehicles for scale.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that a quick stop of 15-30 minutes is sufficient to view the smokestack, read the historical panels, and take photos.
The main attraction is the towering 365-foot brick smokestack itself. Informative historical panels at the base provide details about its construction and the former Ohio-Colorado Smelter.
There are no public facilities like restrooms or gift shops directly at the smokestack site. It's a historical landmark with minimal amenities.
Yes, you can get quite close to the base of the smokestack to appreciate its scale and read the historical information. However, climbing is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Bring a ball or frisbee for some playtime in the open space around the smokestack after you've explored the historical aspects. It’s a free and easy way to break up a road trip and add a unique educational element to your family adventure.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Don't miss: The chance to read the historical markers. They provide a concise yet informative overview of the smelter's significance, adding depth to your brief visit. It’s a chance to learn something new without derailing your travel plans.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Monument to Salida's Industrial Past
Despite its historical significance, the smelter itself had a relatively short operational life. The smokestack, however, endured, becoming an iconic landmark on the Salida landscape. Today, it serves as a free, accessible point of interest for visitors, offering a tangible connection to the region's mining and industrial heritage. Informative panels at the site provide visitors with details about the smelter's history, its impact on the community, and the construction of the smokestack itself, making it a quick yet educational stop.
While the smokestack is a powerful visual, it's important to remember its industrial origins and the associated safety considerations. Visitors are encouraged to admire the structure from a safe distance and refrain from attempting to climb it, as it is not maintained for public ascent and poses significant risks. The site is a reminder of Salida's industrious past and a unique piece of Colorado's historical tapestry.
Social
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