Alta Ghost Town
Explore a historic high-elevation mining ghost town and stunning alpine lakes near Telluride, Colorado. An adventurer's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better road conditions
Alta Ghost Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better road conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic high-elevation mining ghost town and stunning alpine lakes near Telluride, Colorado. An adventurer's paradise.
"The place is fantastic. And the network connection works really well up here! (Surprise surprise)"
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Road can be rough; 4x4 is best, especially after rain or snow. Check conditions!
🎒 Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace! Many visitors report excessive trash and glass. Help keep it clean.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alta Ghost Town
Near Telluride, Colorado
Explore remnants of a high-elevation mining town, with several original buildings still standing.
Alta Lakes
Above Alta Ghost Town
Three stunning alpine lakes offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, two are publicly accessible.
Scenic Off-Roading
Access roads to Alta
Navigate challenging but rewarding trails with incredible mountain vistas, perfect for 4x4 adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & Vehicle Choice
Respecting the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Road can be rough; 4x4 is best, especially after rain or snow. Check conditions!
🎒 Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace! Many visitors report excessive trash and glass. Help keep it clean.
⬆️ High Elevation Alert
Town is at 11,800 ft. Acclimatize and stay hydrated.
🏕️ Camping Spots
Dispersed camping available, but can be close together. Book ahead if possible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended for Road
Road can be rough; 4x4 is best, especially after rain or snow. Check conditions!
🎒 Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace! Many visitors report excessive trash and glass. Help keep it clean.
⬆️ High Elevation Alert
Town is at 11,800 ft. Acclimatize and stay hydrated.
🏕️ Camping Spots
Dispersed camping available, but can be close together. Book ahead if possible.
📱 Network Surprise!
Surprisingly good cell service in some areas. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Alta Ghost Town and Alta Lakes to be incredibly scenic and a worthwhile destination, especially for camping and off-roading. The challenging road requires a capable vehicle, and the high elevation means visitors should be prepared. However, the beauty of the location is often marred by significant amounts of trash and broken glass left by previous visitors.
"If you have the time to make it up the road this is a great spot to spend the night or two. The road is narrow in some spots so passing oncoming traffic may be an issue at times. Several rocky parts of the road get your vehicle bouncing side to side so make sure things inside are secure. There are nights where other campers will be having a great time and you will hear them but for the most part its reasonable."
Ben
"We made it to the ghost town with our camper van which is not 4x4. It’s less than a mile away from the lakes. The road is alright when dry if you have enough clearance. Otherwise 4x4 only. We kinda just went for it and made it! We did attempt to go up to the lakes but there was still snow on the road (end of May) so we backed down and camped at this incredible viewpoint. That was a good decision as the next day we hiked to the lakes and there was still lots of snow and not easy to walk even. The place is fantastic. And the network connection works really well up here! (Surprise surprise) 🏔️"
Yokata Jane
"Road from telluride resort is closed. But the road from Sunshine Mountain Scenic Overview is open. Can be done with suburu outback."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary route is via a challenging road from Telluride, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle, especially if there's snow or mud. Some sections are narrow and rocky. An alternative access point is via Sunshine Mountain Scenic Overview, which may be more manageable for vehicles like a Subaru Outback when dry. [^Review]
A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to the rough, rocky, and sometimes steep terrain. While some have managed with higher-clearance vehicles like camper vans or Subarus when conditions are dry, it's a risk. [^Review]
The road can be subject to closures due to snow, especially in late spring. It's best to check local conditions before heading out. [^Review]
Yes, guided tours, including 4WD tours, are available from Telluride, offering a way to experience the ghost town and surrounding lakes without worrying about your vehicle.
Alta Ghost Town is located a short drive from Telluride, but the journey can take longer than expected due to the road conditions. It's situated at a high elevation, around 11,800 feet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entrance fee to visit Alta Ghost Town or the surrounding Alta Lakes area, as it's largely dispersed camping and public land. However, be prepared for potential fees if using designated campgrounds nearby.
Alta Ghost Town is an abandoned historical site and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. There are no set operating hours.
Camping in the Alta Ghost Town area is primarily dispersed camping, which is first-come, first-served. However, popular times can fill up, and some nearby campgrounds may require reservations.
Visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles. Be mindful of the fragile environment, pack out all trash, and respect the historical nature of the site. [^Review]
Winter access can be challenging due to snow. Snowmobiling tours are available during winter months, offering a unique way to reach the area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the remnants of a historic mining town, including several original buildings. The surrounding Alta Lakes offer beautiful scenery and hiking opportunities. 
Yes, two of the three Alta Lakes are publicly accessible. They are a popular destination for hiking and enjoying the alpine scenery.
Activities include exploring the ghost town, hiking to the Alta Lakes, off-roading, camping, and photography. In winter, snowmobiling is a popular option.
While the challenging road and historical nature might require extra supervision, families can enjoy the adventure of reaching the ghost town and the beauty of the lakes.
Alta Ghost Town is situated at a high elevation of approximately 11,800 feet (3,600 meters).
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
There are very limited facilities. Expect dispersed camping with no amenities like restrooms or running water. You must be self-sufficient.
Dispersed camping is the primary option, allowing you to set up camp in designated areas. Some campsites can be close together.
Surprisingly, some visitors have reported good cell service in certain areas of Alta Ghost Town. [^Review]
Bring all your essentials: food, water, shelter, warm clothing (even in summer), and be prepared for rough road conditions. Secure items inside your vehicle. [^Review]
Dogs are generally allowed, but owners must clean up after them. Visitors have noted an issue with dog waste bags being left behind. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic buildings of the ghost town, the stunning alpine scenery of Alta Lakes, and the dramatic mountain landscapes during sunrise or sunset.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful alpenglow and soft light, ideal for landscape and historic site photography.
The ghost town itself, the shores of Alta Lakes, and various viewpoints along the access road provide excellent photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of the historic buildings or distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check current FAA guidelines and local restrictions before flying a drone in protected or historical areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the high elevation (11,800 ft) and potential for rough terrain. Ensure children are supervised, especially around any remaining structures or uneven ground. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Emphasize the importance of leaving no trace and respecting the historical site. [^Review]
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the ghost town, explore the routes leading to the Alta Lakes or consider connecting to other famous passes like Ophir Pass or Imogene Pass for a longer off-road expedition. Remember to be prepared with recovery gear, extra fuel, and a reliable navigation system. Always check trail conditions and be mindful of other users.
📸 Photographers
+1The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide spectacular light for capturing the alpenglow on the mountains. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for sweeping vistas, while telephoto lenses can highlight details in the ghost town structures. Be prepared for variable weather and high altitudes, which can add to the atmospheric appeal of your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Alta Road
If you're not equipped for off-roading or are concerned about your vehicle, consider booking a guided 4WD tour from Telluride. These tours provide a safe and informative way to experience the ghost town and the stunning Alta Lakes without the stress of navigating the challenging terrain yourself.
Always check the latest road conditions before you depart, as weather can drastically alter accessibility. Snow can linger well into late spring, making the road impassable for most vehicles. [^Review]
History and Legacy of Alta
Today, Alta is a ghost town, a silent testament to the boom-and-bust cycles of the American West. Visitors can explore several original buildings that still stand, offering a tangible connection to the past. The eerie atmosphere, combined with the dramatic mountain setting, makes it a compelling destination for history buffs and photographers alike.
+1While the mining era has long passed, the area remains popular for its natural beauty. The Alta Lakes, situated above the ghost town, are a draw for hikers and campers, offering a serene contrast to the town's rugged history. The juxtaposition of abandoned structures and pristine alpine nature is a unique aspect of the Alta experience.
Responsible Recreation at Alta
This means packing out everything you pack in, including food scraps, wrappers, and especially dog waste. Several reviews highlight the issue of dog waste bags being left around the campground, which is unacceptable. Please be a responsible pet owner and dispose of waste properly. [^Review]
By being mindful of our impact, we can help preserve Alta Ghost Town and Alta Lakes for future generations to enjoy. Respect the historical significance of the site and the natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit