What is it about ghost towns in Colorado that are so intriguing? Is it the life that was lived in that dilapidated home? Or the likely happy times that occurred in the old church hall? If those walls could talk, can you imagine the tales of triumph and despair that they would share? Sadly, we will never know all the history behind these 5 ghost towns in Colorado (all which happen to be former mining areas), but here are a few of their stories:

1.) Animas Forks
Wikimedia Commons
Wikimedia Commons
Known as being one of the best-kept ghost towns in the state (a Colorado State Historical Fund grant has helped maintain the area), Animas Forks was a once-thriving mining town that quickly dissolved after the closing of the Gold Prince Mill. Today, the National Register of Historic Places listing is a tourist favorite.
2.) St. Elmo
Wikimedia Commons
Wikimedia Commons
Like Animas Forks, St. Elmo was a well-populated mining town with a telegraph office, general store, town hall, hotels, saloons, dance halls, newspaper office, and a schoolhouse. Unlike Animas Forks, St. Elmo is said to be haunted by the ghost of a "very attractive woman in a white dress." Could that pretty ghost be that of Annabell "Dirty Annie" Stark, a descendent of one of the town's founders who was known for roaming the empty streets with a rifle, protecting what was hers?
3.) Climax
Wikimedia Commons

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The former unincorporated mining village was once the highest human settlement in the United States and holds the record for once having the country's second-highest Post Office and railroad station. After being closed for nearly 17 years, the Climax mine recently reopened and resumed the shipping of molybdenum. (The town itself came to be for its huge deposit of molybdenum ore).
4.) Gothic
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Flickr/Jeffrey Beall
The appropriately-named ghost town in Colorado, once popular for mining, is now home to the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory. When it comes to abandoned places in Colorado, the town of Gothic is certainly one of the most picturesque.
5.) Independence
Flickr/Carolyn Cuskey
Flickr/LDELD
The once prosperous mining town -- and first European settlement in the valley -- was at one time home to over 1,500 residents and dozens of businesses. However, due to its less-than-desirable weather conditions, residents began migrating to milder climates, eventually leading to the demise of the once-booming and "independent" town.

Have you ever visited any of the above ghost towns in Colorado? How did it feel to be there? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Join in on the conversation by leaving a comment below.

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Ghost Towns In Colorado

Beth C. | June 01, 2020

What is the most haunted place in Colorado?

The state of Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, from the towering Rocky Mountains to the picturesque plains and farmland. Yet the Centennial State is not without its fair share of haunted locations. One of the most haunted places in Colorado is the Central City Masonic Cemetery. Those who have photographed the area at night have noticed some unexplainable orbs appearing in their pictures. There are also reports of a little boy's ghost who has been seen wandering the property and hiding behind trees whenever addressed. Looking for more haunted hot spots? Check out this list of Colorado's most haunted places.

Can I go ghost hunting in Colorado?

For those who are daring enough to experience something paranormal in Colorado, there are plenty of ghost hunts available. The historic Stanley Hotel, which is considered to be a top destination for paranormal activity, offers nightly ghost tours of the hotel. The Historic Stanely Night Tour offers a fascinating overview of the hotel's history. Plus, you might even spot a ghost! Stephen King is said to have found inspiration for his famous book, The Shining, at this very landmark. There are also several ghost tours in Denver for those looking to experience some of the city's most iconic haunted places.

What haunted hiking trails can I take in Colorado?

Colorado's hikes are notorious for being challenging and beautiful, and some even have a reputation for being haunted. The Black Forest of Colorado is a particularly chilling region. Not only is it home to one of the most haunted houses in the state, but it's also an area known for its eerie trail occurrences. Carter Lake in Loveland, Colorado is also said to be haunted. Allegedly, the ghost of an old man carrying a bag disappears into thin air when approached. Talk about eerie! Of course, there are plenty of haunted campgrounds, too. You can click here to learn more.

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Featured Addresses
Animas Forks, CO 81433, USA
Saint Elmo, St Elmo, CO 81236, USA
Climax, CO 80461, USA
Gothic, CO 81224, USA
Independence Ghost Town, 35241-, 36221 CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611, USA