Animas Forks Ghost Town
A high-altitude ghost town nestled in the San Juan Mountains, offering a glimpse into Colorado's rugged mining past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, better views
Animas Forks Ghost Town
Best Time
Clearer skies, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude ghost town nestled in the San Juan Mountains, offering a glimpse into Colorado's rugged mining past.
"The drive up is no joke, but Animas Forks is straight out of a time capsule!"
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
A high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is essential for the Alpine Loop and reaching Animas Forks.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The high altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Columbus Mine
Central Animas Forks
Explore the remnants of a once-thriving mining operation, a testament to the town's boom-and-bust past.
Gustavson House
Western Animas Forks
Step inside one of the most well-preserved homes, offering a glimpse into domestic life during the mining era.
The Old Jail
Near the center of town
Imagine the days of law and order (or lack thereof) in this compact, historic jailhouse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
High-Altitude Adventure Requires Preparation
Respect the Past, Preserve the Present
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
A high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is essential for the Alpine Loop and reaching Animas Forks. 
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The high altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain.
⛽ Fuel Up Beforehand
There are no services once you're on the Alpine Loop. Fill your tank in Silverton or Ouray.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 is a MUST
A high-clearance, 4x4 vehicle is essential for the Alpine Loop and reaching Animas Forks.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The high altitude can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain.
⛽ Fuel Up Beforehand
There are no services once you're on the Alpine Loop. Fill your tank in Silverton or Ouray.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The drive and the town offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and the immersive historical experience of Animas Forks. The drive along the Alpine Loop is a major highlight, offering breathtaking mountain vistas. However, the challenging road conditions and the need for a capable 4x4 vehicle are significant considerations for many.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Animas Forks is accessible via the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, a rugged 4x4 trail. You'll need a high-clearance, 4WD vehicle. The most common access points are from Silverton or Lake City. The drive itself is an adventure with stunning mountain vistas.
No, the Alpine Loop is a challenging off-road trail. While some sections are mild, others require significant ground clearance and 4x4 capability. A standard car or SUV will not make it.
Absolutely not. A regular car will not survive the rough terrain of the Alpine Loop. You need a dedicated off-road vehicle.
Most visitors start the Alpine Loop from Silverton or Lake City. Both towns offer amenities and are gateways to the scenic byway.
The full Alpine Loop can take anywhere from 6-10 hours, depending on your pace, stops, and vehicle. Allow a full day for the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Animas Forks Ghost Town is a public historical site and does not have an entrance fee. You can explore the grounds and buildings freely.
Animas Forks is an outdoor historical site and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. However, the Alpine Loop road is typically only passable from late May/early June through October.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no admission fee. However, it's wise to check road conditions and weather forecasts before your visit.
While there are no official guided tours, you can often find local guides or outfitters in Silverton or Ouray who offer guided 4x4 tours of the Alpine Loop and Animas Forks.
Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas along the Alpine Loop, but be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles. There are also campgrounds in nearby Silverton and Lake City.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the remarkably preserved buildings, including cabins, the jail, the Columbus Mine, and the Gustavson House. Imagine life in a 19th-century mining town.
Some buildings have been stabilized and are safe to enter, like the Gustavson House. Others are more fragile. Always exercise caution and respect the structures.
Many visitors report a spooky or eerie atmosphere, and there are local legends of hauntings. It's a popular spot for paranormal enthusiasts.
You might spot deer, marmots, and various birds. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain. Dress in layers, as mountain weather is unpredictable.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire town offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Focus on the historic buildings, the surrounding San Juan Mountains, and the rugged landscape.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photographing the ghost town and the mountains.
Generally, yes, but be respectful of the structures. Avoid using flash photography inside fragile buildings if it could cause damage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views and townscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families:
* Altitude: Ensure everyone is well-hydrated and acclimatized. Take it slow.
* Vehicle: A 4x4 is non-negotiable. Consider a guided tour if you're not comfortable driving off-road.
* Engagement: Bring a small notebook for kids to sketch buildings or imagine stories about the town's past.
* Safety: Keep a close eye on children, as the terrain can be uneven and some structures are fragile.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the thrill of the drive, the destination itself is a historical gem. Exploring the well-preserved ghost town adds a layer of discovery to your off-road adventure. Many off-roaders combine a trip to Animas Forks with camping along the Alpine Loop, making for an unforgettable multi-day expedition. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this beautiful area for future adventurers.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & Spooky Seekers
+1If you're interested in the paranormal, Animas Forks offers a prime location for exploration. Bring your ghost-hunting equipment and spend time in the old jail or the abandoned cabins. Even if you don't encounter any spirits, the haunting atmosphere and the stories of the town's past are sure to send shivers down your spine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Alpine Loop
+1Travelers often recommend tackling the loop from Silverton towards Animas Forks and then continuing to Lake City, or vice versa. Popular stops along the way include the ghost town of Ironton, the historic mining town of Eureka, and the summit of Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass, both exceeding 12,000 feet. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, even in summer. It's crucial to check road conditions before you go, as snow can linger well into July at higher elevations.
Key Takeaways for the Alpine Loop:
* Vehicle: Absolutely requires a 4x4 with high clearance.
* Time: Allocate a full day (6-10 hours) for the entire loop.
* Supplies: Carry plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a spare tire.
* Navigation: Download offline maps, as cell service is nonexistent.
The Eerie Allure of a Ghost Town
Today, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has worked to preserve some of the most significant structures, including the Gustavson House, the jail, and the Columbus Mine. Walking through Animas Forks, you can almost hear the echoes of the past – the clatter of pickaxes, the rumble of ore carts, and the chatter of miners. The isolation and the stark beauty of the high-altitude setting contribute to its haunting atmosphere, making it a popular spot for those interested in history and the paranormal.
+1* Historical Significance: A prime example of a late 19th-century Colorado mining town.
* Preservation Efforts: Key buildings are stabilized for visitors to explore.
* Atmosphere: Known for its eerie, isolated, and sometimes spooky ambiance.
Photography Tips for Animas Forks
+1When visiting, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and the layout of the town. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the buildings or for capturing distant mountain peaks. The unpredictable mountain weather can also add drama to your shots, with clouds and mist creating atmospheric conditions. Remember to be respectful of the historical structures and avoid disturbing anything.
Photography Checklist:
* Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
* Plenty of battery power and memory cards
* Tripod for low-light conditions
* Weather-appropriate gear for yourself and your camera
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit