Step into the world of the past and explore the eerie remnants of a once-thriving mining community in the heart of Colorado. Welcome to the ghost town of Ashcroft, where the whispers of the past echo through the wind-swept streets and crumbling buildings.
Located in Pitkin County, Colorado, Ashcroft was founded in the late 1800s as Castle Forks City, a bustling silver mining camp. At its peak, this forgotten town was home to over 2,000 residents, making it larger than its neighboring town of Aspen. But as quickly as its rise, Ashcroft’s fall was imminent.
By 1885, the promise of nearby mining operations enticed many residents to seek fortune elsewhere, leaving Ashcroft with only a mere 100 seasonal residents. The town’s decline continued, and eventually, it was abandoned, leaving behind a ghost town frozen in time.
Today, the remains of Ashcroft serve as a haunting reminder of the past. As you explore the streets, you’ll encounter the skeletal structures of several historic buildings, including the Blue Mirror Saloon, which once buzzed with the lively chatter of patrons.
The ghostly remnants of Ashcroft can be reached by traveling 11 miles up Castle Creek Road from the west entrance to Aspen. The journey itself is an adventure, as you traverse through scenic landscapes and witness the mesmerizing beauty of nature reclaiming the land.
Visiting Ashcroft is a unique experience, as the town has been preserved by the Aspen Historical Society. The admission is self-guided and operates on an honor system, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and immerse themselves in the rich history of this lost town.
It’s not just history enthusiasts who find themselves drawn to Ashcroft. The mystique and ethereal aura of the ghost town have made it a popular destination for photographers, artists, and those seeking a glimpse into the past. The weathered wooden structures against the backdrop of majestic mountains create an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful.
While Ashcroft may be a ghost town, its spirit lives on through the stories and legends that surround it. Tales of silver treasures lost in the mines, ghostly apparitions wandering the streets, and the echoes of laughter and music from long-forgotten saloons have become part of the town’s lore.
So, if you’re searching for an adventure that takes you off the beaten path, step into the realm of the supernatural and explore the ghost town of Ashcroft. Uncover the secrets of the past and immerse yourself in a world frozen in time.
Experience the beauty, mystery, and history that await in this forgotten corner of Colorado. Ashcroft may be a ghost town, but its presence will linger in your memory long after you leave.
