Spokane Ghost Town
Explore the remnants of a 1920s South Dakota mining town, where weathered homes and vintage cars whisper tales of the past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Before afternoon storms
Spokane Ghost Town
Best Time
Before afternoon storms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remnants of a 1920s South Dakota mining town, where weathered homes and vintage cars whisper tales of the past. 
"A neat bit of history, offering a wonderful experience to walk back in time. "
🎯 Park Smartly
GPS can be misleading. Park on Playground Rd or at the campground store for maps. :round_pushpin:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Ask for a crude but helpful map at the campground store for easier navigation. :map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abandoned Homes & Cars
Scattered throughout the site
Explore remnants of a bygone era, including weathered homes and vintage vehicles. A true step back in time.
The Grave of a Mining Claim Victim
Near the mining town ruins
Discover the poignant resting place of an individual tragically murdered over a mining claim. A somber historical marker.
Spokane Ghost Town Trail
Various access points
Hike through the landscape where this once-thriving mining town stood. Enjoy the scenic views and historical atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Spokane Ghost Town
Respecting the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Park Smartly
GPS can be misleading. Park on Playground Rd or at the campground store for maps. :round_pushpin:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Ask for a crude but helpful map at the campground store for easier navigation. :map:
🚶♀️ Follow the Power Lines
The left path from the power lines is easier to find. Metal remnants are visible from fields. :hiking_boot:
♻️ Leave No Trace
Respect the history. Do not damage structures or leave trash behind. :recycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smartly
GPS can be misleading. Park on Playground Rd or at the campground store for maps. :round_pushpin:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Ask for a crude but helpful map at the campground store for easier navigation. :map:
🚶♀️ Follow the Power Lines
The left path from the power lines is easier to find. Metal remnants are visible from fields. :hiking_boot:
♻️ Leave No Trace
Respect the history. Do not damage structures or leave trash behind. :recycle:
👻 Embrace the Spooky
Some visitors find the atmosphere a bit spooky, adding to the ghost town charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Spokane Ghost Town a neat bit of history and a wonderful experience to walk back in time. The abandoned homes and cars are highlights, though some find the atmosphere a bit spooky. The main drawback is the difficulty in finding the correct location, with GPS often leading astray.
"The location GPS takes you to is not the trail. It is a private residence. Stop on Playground Rd by the yellow curve road signs and park on the side of the road/ditch area."
John J. Hofford
"Park at the campground store on Iron mountain road. Ask the clerk inside for a paper map. It’s crude map but essentially follow the power the lines up and bare to the left when it splits. Both paths lead to a part of the mining town but the left path is much easier to find. The right part we walked quite far before we ran into a building. On the right path walk through the field back into the woods, you can see metal from the fields edge."
Andrew Rinne
"Wonderful experience to walk back in time of this mining town, just wish folks would not damage the property and take there trash with them. There is History to this place , do find time and get a chance too look it up please , this makes the experience more enjoyable. Look for the Grave of some one that was murdered over a mining claim, check out the homes and cars. Have a great day exploring this old town."
Carl Muhm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The GPS often leads to a private residence. Instead, park on Playground Road near the yellow curve signs or at the campground store on Iron Mountain Road. Ask for a map at the store for guidance.
Follow the power lines. The left path is generally easier to find and leads to parts of the mining town. You can also spot metal remnants from the fields.
While the access roads might be rough, the ghost town itself is a walking exploration. Parking is typically roadside or in designated areas near the campground.
Keep an eye out for abandoned homes, old cars, and the grave of someone murdered over a mining claim.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be traversing uneven terrain. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Spokane Ghost Town is generally accessible without an entry fee. It's an open historical site.
As an outdoor historical site, there are no official operating hours. Visitors can explore during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to explore Spokane Ghost Town. It's a free historical site to visit.
While accessible year-round, weather conditions can affect the experience. Winter months may present challenging terrain.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised. However, local resources like the campground store may offer maps or information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore abandoned homes, old cars, remnants of the mining town, and a grave marking a historical tragedy.
While generally safe, exercise caution due to uneven terrain and historical structures. Some visitors find it a bit spooky.
Yes, photography is encouraged to capture the historical atmosphere. Be mindful of the fragile environment.
Founded in 1890 as a mining town, it was profitable in the 1920s but declined when the mine dried up.
Restroom facilities are typically not available at the ghost town site itself. Plan accordingly and use facilities at nearby campgrounds or stores.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at the ghost town. Nearby towns or campgrounds may offer food services.
Picnicking is possible, but remember to pack out all trash to preserve the historical site.
The surrounding areas might offer classic American fare. For specific recommendations, check local listings near Iron Mountain Road.
While not directly adjacent, exploring nearby towns might reveal local eateries. Consider checking reviews for places like 'Delicious' in Spokane for burgers.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is recommended, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
The abandoned homes, vintage cars, and the overall desolate landscape offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is encouraged to document the history. However, avoid disturbing or damaging any structures.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and structures.
There are no specific restrictions, but always be respectful of the historical site and any private property nearby.
Late morning can offer good light before potential afternoon storms, or golden hour during sunrise/sunset can create dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
sparking their imagination about life in the past. It's a chance to turn a history lesson into an adventure. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. Emphasize the importance of respecting the historical site by not touching or damaging anything. The story of the mining claim murder can be a captivating, albeit somber, tale for older children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
+1Photographers will appreciate the atmospheric lighting, especially during the golden hours. The stark beauty of the abandoned buildings against the natural landscape provides compelling visual narratives. Remember to be respectful of the site's historical integrity while capturing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Spokane Ghost Town
However, like many mining towns, its existence was finite. When the primary mine eventually ran dry, the economic engine of Spokane sputtered and died. Residents gradually moved on, leaving behind the structures that now form the ghost town. This decline is a common narrative for frontier towns that relied heavily on a single resource.
Today, Spokane Ghost Town stands as a testament to this boom-and-bust cycle. Visitors can explore the remnants of homes and vehicles, offering a tangible connection to the lives of those who once inhabited this remote outpost. The site also holds somber historical markers, such as the grave of an individual murdered over a mining claim, adding layers of human drama to its past.
Navigating and Exploring the Site
The exploration itself involves walking through the remnants of the old town. A recommended route involves following the power lines; the left path is generally easier to navigate and leads to various parts of the mining town. Visitors have noted seeing metal debris from the fields, indicating the extent of past activity. It's crucial to stick to marked or discernible paths to avoid disturbing sensitive areas and to ensure your own safety.
When exploring, remember the importance of preservation. Many visitors emphasize the need to leave the site as it is found, refraining from damaging structures or leaving trash. Learning about the history beforehand, such as the stories behind the abandoned homes or the grave, can significantly enhance the experience and foster a deeper appreciation for this historical location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit