Independence Ghost Town

Learn about the mining history of this Colorado ghost town.

The Independence Ghost Town is located east of Aspen, Colorado, just below the Continental Divide. It was the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley and was established in the late 1800s. This historic site is on the list of national historic landmarks, and prospectors had found nearly $200,000 worth of gold between 1881 and 1882. At an elevation of 10,900 feet, winter lasts from October to May. One particularly harsh winter (1899) had cut off supply routes, and it is said that many people in town made their own skis to escape to Aspen.

This preserved ghost town is open for guided tours from mid-June through early October. Guided tours are 1.5 hours long and begin on Saturdays at 1 pm. You must book in advance to take a tour. Self-guided tours are also available in the summer throughout the week. Exhibits include the remnants of a cabin, general store, and stables. If you like exploring ghost towns, be sure to add the Independence Ghost Town to your Colorado itinerary.