October in Aspen is one of the best times of year in Aspen to get in the spirit of “spooky season” and explore Aspen’s darker history from 1879 to present. From historic ghost towns and cemeteries and more, check out our list below for 5 ways to learn about the ghosts of Aspen’s past- just in time for Halloween.
1. Explore Ashcroft Ghost Town. This silver mining ghost town is perfect to explore during October where you can discover the remains of a post office, mercantile store, and other original and relocated historical buildings. This ghost town is located eleven miles up Castle Creek Road and guided tours are available online here.
2. A walk-through Independence Ghost Town. Another one of our favorite Aspen ghost towns to check off your list is Independence Ghost Town located just just below the Continental Divide on Independence Pass. As one of the first mining sites in the Roaring Fork Valley, there are plenty of spooky stories to be told as life during the winter 10,900 feet was certainly not easy. Interpretive signs and preserved original structures offer a rewarding self-guided experience on this moderate high alpine trail. More information here.
3. Head off the beaten path with a guided night tour through Aspen’s first burial ground, the Ute Cemetery. On this tour you can expect to hear lonely tales of buffalo soldiers, pioneers of the “Ute City”, and more locals that were buried here. Signup for your walk-through Aspen’s oldest burial grounds here.
4. Take a night tour through downtown in Aspen’s Darkside Historical Ghost, Murder & Mayhem walking tour. This tour is for those looking to be scared as you will walk through Aspen’s tarnished past and discover the ghosts of Aspen in a darker lesson on this mountain town’s history. Register for your tour online here.
5. Wander around Red Butte Cemetery on Cemetery Lane during a full moon. This community treasure houses markers dating from the 19th century including graves that were relocated to Red Butte after its creation. Bonus, after your moonlight stroll grab a drink at the historic J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome where you can ask the bartender to tell you one of the many ghost stories that occured at The Hotel Jerome throughout the years.
Tell us your favorite Aspen Ghost Story on social @AspenCo and we will repost our favorite!
