Alta Ghost Town | Telluride

Information

Landmark: Alta Ghost Town
City: Telluride
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America

Alta Ghost Town, Telluride, USA Colorado, North America

Alta Ghost Town is a former mining settlement located in San Miguel County, Colorado, near Telluride.

This site preserves remnants of late 19th-century mining operations in a high-altitude mountain environment.

Visual Characteristics

The site consists of approximately 20 standing structures, primarily constructed from rough-hewn timber and local stone. Buildings exhibit a simple, functional design typical of frontier settlements. Visible materials include weathered wood planks, corrugated metal roofing on some structures, and stone foundations. The town is situated on a steep, uneven slope at an elevation of approximately 11,000 feet (3,350 meters).

Location & Access Logistics

Alta Ghost Town is accessible via Imogene Pass Road (County Road 25), a high-clearance, 4WD-only road originating from Telluride. The distance from Telluride is approximately 12 miles (19 km) one-way. Parking is limited to informal pull-offs along the road. No public transportation services reach the site. Access is seasonal, typically from late May/early June to October, depending on snow conditions.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Alta was established in 1877 following the discovery of silver and gold in the area. It served as a mining camp and later a small town, supporting operations in the surrounding mountains. The town was largely abandoned by the early 20th century as mining declined. Ecologically, the site is located within the subalpine zone of the San Juan Mountains, characterized by Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, and alpine meadows.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the remaining building foundations and structures. Observation of mining equipment remnants. Hiking on the Imogene Pass Road for views of the surrounding peaks. Photography of the historical architecture and mountain landscape.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No public restrooms are available. Natural shade is limited due to the open terrain. Cell phone signal is generally absent. No food vendors or services are present at the site; visitors must bring all supplies.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is mid-morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting on the structures and landscape. The optimal months for visiting are July through September, when Imogene Pass Road is typically clear of snow and weather conditions are most stable. High-altitude conditions can change rapidly, with potential for afternoon thunderstorms.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Alta was once home to over 1,000 residents during its peak mining years, despite its remote and challenging location. A local legend suggests that the ghost of a prospector still guards a hidden vein of ore in the vicinity.