If you have ever studied Colorado history, you know that mining played a HUGE part in the inception of the state. While most of the mines have since dried up, there are countless remnants of this important period, like this abandoned Colorado mine that is being reclaimed by nature:

Located near Cripple Creek is the eerie Vindicator Valley Trail; a two-mile gravel path that leads explorers through one of the "Trails of Gold."
Flickr/Jacob Caddy
It begins at the 1895 Theresa Gold Mine...
TripAdvisor/gstephenson147
It may not look like much now, but over the course of its life, Theresa produced more than $100M in gold before closing for good in 1961.
...and passes several other once-vital structures, including the Vindicator Ore House...
TripAdvisor/Thomas A
During the mine's peak, cars brought tons of ore from the nearby shafts to the Ore House, which is where the minerals were separated by size and sorted by quality.

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...and an old powder magazine.
Enjoy Cripple Creek Facebook
What is a powder magazine? It is a vital spot where explosives and other potential hazards were stored.
Sadly, like most abandoned dwellings, nature has taken over the once strong buildings, which can be seen by the influx of trees, bushes, vines, and weeds.
TripAdvisor/gstephenson147
The Vindicator Valley Trail is a 2.2-mile loop that can be found by taking Highway 24 to US 67 (in Divide), heading south for 13.5 miles, and turning left on Highway 81.
Cripple Creek & Victor Mine Facebook

Here’s a handy map to help you find it:

Discover even more Colorado mining history by clicking You’ll Never Forget A Trip Through This Old Gem Mine In Colorado.

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