Ghost Towns and Cemeteries to Visit in Aspen this October
October is one of the best times of year to get in the spirit of “spooky season” and explore Aspen’s intriguing history from 1879 to present.
From historic ghost towns to 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.
- 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, making for a scenic drive from Aspen to Ashcroft. At the ghost town, take a self-guided tour through the town to uncover the intriguing stories of the former mining town.
- Wander Through Independence Ghost Town: Another one of our favorite Aspen ghost towns is Independence Ghost Town located 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 surviving through the winter at 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.
- 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. Sign up to explore Aspen’s oldest burial grounds here.
- Take a night tour through downtown with Aspen’s Darkside Historical Ghost, Murder & Mayhem walking tour. This tour is for those looking for a scare! The group 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.
- Roam the Red Butte Cemetery on Cemetery Lane under a full moon. This community treasure houses markers dating back to 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 intriguing stories about its past.
Tell us your favorite Aspen Ghost Story on social @AspenCo!
