Cerro Gordo Ghost Town is located in Inyo County, California, United States. It is nestled in the Inyo Mountains adjacent to Lone Pine in the Owens Valley. This historical ghost town sits high above the Owens Valley, approximately 200 miles north of Los Angeles.
The town’s coordinates are 36°32’16″N 117°47’42″W. To reach Cerro Gordo Ghost Town, one can take the County-maintained dirt/gravel road known as Cerro Gordo Road. The road intersects with CA-136 near Keeler, which is about 12 miles east of Lone Pine. The drive from the intersection to the ghost town is approximately 8 miles.
Cerro Gordo Ghost Town can be found within the Inyo Mountains, which are part of the Inyo Range. The town is situated at an elevation of about 9,000 feet, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the Owens Valley to the west.
History of Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
Cerro Gordo Ghost Town was founded in 1865 following the discovery of silver in the area by a man named Pablo Flores. It quickly became a bustling hub for silver mining and attracted miners from all over. The town’s name, Cerro Gordo, translates to ″Fat Hill″ in English, referring to the rich silver deposits found in the area.
During its heyday, Cerro Gordo Ghost Town produced as much as $13 million worth of silver and lead bullion. The town grew rapidly, and at its peak, it had a population of over 4,000 people. Numerous mines operated in the area, extracting high-grade silver, lead, zinc, and other metals.
However, as mining operations became less profitable and the silver market declined, Cerro Gordo Ghost Town began to decline. By the early 1900s٫ the town’s population dwindled٫ and eventually٫ the mines ceased operations in 1957. Today٫ the town is considered a well-preserved ghost town٫ offering visitors a glimpse into its rich mining history.
Exploring Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
Visitors to Cerro Gordo Ghost Town can explore the various historic buildings and artifacts that have been preserved. The townsite includes notable structures such as the 1871 American Hotel, the fully restored 1904 Bunkhouse, and the 1868 Belshaw House.
One of the main attractions of Cerro Gordo Ghost Town is the General Store, which now serves as a museum showcasing the town’s colorful history. Visitors can learn about the mining operations, view artifacts, and gain insight into the daily life of the town’s past residents.
Additionally, the scenic views from the ghost town are worth the visit. The Inyo Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and the panoramic views of the Owens Valley are truly breathtaking.
Accessing Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
To access Cerro Gordo Ghost Town, a 4WD vehicle is recommended due to the rugged nature of the Cerro Gordo Road. The road is a dirt/gravel road and may require careful navigation. It is important to note that the road conditions can vary٫ so it is advisable to check for any closures or restrictions before planning a visit.
Once at Cerro Gordo Ghost Town, visitors should be respectful of the historic structures and artifacts. Taking photographs and exploring the town is encouraged, but it is essential to leave everything as it is found to preserve the site for future generations.
Cerro Gordo Ghost Town is a unique and historical attraction that offers a glimpse into California’s mining history. From its remote location to its well-preserved structures, it provides visitors with a memorable experience and a chance to step back in time.