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    Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    0.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    10 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike

    The Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike is a short adventure south of Aspen, Colorado that will take you through an historic site surrounded by mountain views. While out walking this trail, you will meander along the streets of a forming silver mining town that was abandoned in 1885, investigating the various buildings that stand as a reminder of the fleeting nature of the mining booms experienced in the region. This quick and informative walk is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure in the Elk Mountains.

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    Route Description for Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike

    There isn’t all that much that can be said that is negative about the Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike, except for the fact that it is really more of a walk. The short overall distance and lack of any real challenging terrain as you make your way through the historic site means that it is more of an outing than any actual kind of exercise. There is an admission fee of $5 to explore the historical site, and you will definitely want to arrive early to secure parking.

    Although it doesn’t offer much in the way of exercise, walking this route will provide you with the opportunity to broaden your mind while learning about the interesting history of mining settlements in Colorado. The fascinating abandoned buildings and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape make this a fun adventure for people of all ages and skill levels.

    Setting out from the parking area, you will follow the trail to the south and pass by a small stretch of forest, before arriving at the site of the Ashcroft Ghost Town. Here, you will be able to investigate the various abandoned wooden buildings that would have served as the courthouse, saloon, and other amenities for the people of this short-lived mining settlement that boomed and busted in the 1880s.

    After making your way through the site and taking in the lovely views of the surrounding mountains and forests, you will head back along the trail to return to your vehicle having completed the Ashcroft Ghost Town Trail.

    Trail Highlights

    Ashcroft Ghost Town

    Formed in 1880 by two prospectors named Charles B. Culver and F.W. Coxhead, Ashcroft was a booming silver mine camp in the Castle Creek Valley. After a courthouse and city streets were laid out, the town grew quickly in size to roughly 2000 people, before being abandoned just as quickly after the silver deposits were found to be small/shallow. By 1885, the town only had about 100 summer residents.

    Insider Hints for Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike

    • There is an admission fee of $5 to explore the town.
    • This is a dog-free area, so make sure to leave your canine friends at home.
    • Parking is limited at the trailhead, so try to arrive early to secure a space.

    Getting to the Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike can be found at the roadside parking lot along Castle Creek Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike Elevation Graph

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