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Independence Ghost Town - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Independence Ghost Town

This is a former mining town located in Pitkin County. Founded in 1879, the town was a thriving community for many years, with a population of over 1,000 people. However, the mines began to play out in the early 20th century, and by the 1950s the town was largely abandoned. Today, It is a popular tourist destination, known for its well-preserved Victorian-era architecture. Visitors can explore the town's old mining equipment, visit its museums, and hike or camp in the surrounding mountains.
Address : 35241-, 36221 CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611, USA

Things to Do at Independence Ghost Town

Independence Ghost Town is a historic site in Pitkin County, Colorado. The town was once a thriving mining community, but it was abandoned in the early 20th century. Today, the town is open to the public and offers a variety of activities for visitors. Visitors can tour the town's abandoned mines, visit the town's cemetery, and hike to the top of Independence Mountain. The town also has a number of restaurants and shops, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring Colorado's history.


Top Activities Near Independence Ghost Town

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History of Independence Ghost Town

Independence Ghost Town is a former mining town located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The town was founded in 1879 after silver was discovered in the area, and at its peak, it had a population of around 1,200 people. However, the silver mines began to play out in the early 1900s, and by 1920, the population had dwindled to just a few hundred people. The town continued to decline until it was finally abandoned in the 1950s. Today, Independence Ghost Town is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the remains of the old town and learn about its history.


Best Time to Visit Independence Ghost Town

The best time to visit Independence Ghost Town is in the spring or fall. Pitkin County is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, and the town of Independence is no exception. 


Tips for Visiting Independence Ghost Town

  1. Do some research before you go. Independence Ghost Town is a popular destination, and it can be crowded during peak times. By doing a little bit of planning ahead, you can avoid the worst of the crowds and have a more enjoyable experience.
  2. Park in the designated parking area. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead, and visitors are required to park there. Please do not try to park along the road or in any of the other nearby parking areas, as this will only cause problems for other visitors.
  3. Be prepared for the hike. The trail to Independence Ghost Town is approximately two miles long, and it can be strenuous in places. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.
  4. Remember that this is a ghost town. Although it may seem like a fun place to explore, it is important to remember that this was once a real town with real people who lived here. Please be respectful of the history and refrain from climbing on or damaging any of the structures.
  5. Do not litter. This should go without saying, but please do not leave any trash behind when you leave Independence Ghost Town. Not only is it disrespectful, but it also creates problems for the wildlife in the area.
  6. Keep your dog on a leash .  Although dogs are allowed on the trail , they must be kept on a leash at all times . This is for their safety as well as the safety of other hikers and wildlife.
  7. Be aware of your surroundings .  Because this is a remote location , it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times . Pay attention to the weather conditions and make sure you have an idea of where you are going . If possible , let someone know where you are going before you set out on your hike .  

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Independence Ghost Town

  1. The town wasnamedafterIndependence Rock,a large rock formation in southwest Wyoming that was used as a landmark by westward-bound settlers.
  2. The Frame house on Main Street is one of the oldest structures in town and is said to be haunted by the ghost of an elderly woman.
  3.  In the early 1900s, the town was used as a filming location for several Western movies, including "The Squaw Man" and "Three Musketeers".
  4. One of the most popular attractions in town is the Independence cemetery, which is home to over 700 graves, including that of Doc Holliday.
  5. One of the most popular attractions in town is the Independence cemetery, which is home to over 700 graves, including that of Doc Holliday.
  6. The ghost town has been featured in several TV shows and movies, including “The Adventures of Brisco County Jr." and “Dickinson’s Real Deal." 

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Independence Ghost Town

While there is no set time limit for exploring the town, most visitors spend between two and three hours. In addition to touring the town, visitors can also hike or ski in the nearby mountains.


How to Reach Independence Ghost Town

To reach the town, take Highway 82 east from Aspen for about 12 miles. The turnoff for Independence ghost town is located on the left hand side of the highway, just before the town of Twin Lakes. From the turnoff, it is about a mile to the ghost town. The road is unpaved and can be rough in places, so four-wheel drive is recommended.


Entrance Fee of Independence Ghost Town

There is no entrance fee to explore Independence Ghost Town, which is located in Pitkin County, Colorado.


Opening Hours of Independence Ghost Town

The town is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.


Attractions Near Independence Ghost Town

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Linkins LakeLinkins Lake is a beautiful natural lake that offers plenty of opportunities for recreation. The lake is situated at an elevation of 9,400 feet, making it a great destination for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is also popular for fishing, canoeing, and picnicking. There are also several campsites located around the lake, making it a perfect place to enjoy a night under the stars. This is a truly special place and is well worth a visit if you find yourself in central Colorado.
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Independence PassIndependence Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. The pass is located on the Continental Divide, at an elevation of 12,095 feet, in the White River National Forest. It is the highest paved pass in the United States. The pass provides access to the towns of Aspen and Crested Butte, as well as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Independence Pass is typically open from late May to early October, depending on weather conditions.
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Twining PeakA majestic mountain located in the Sawatch Range in United States.Twining Peak is a “named” thirteener and a fun hike that should be started early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. It can be done as a loop as shown: blue being the uphill route and yellow is the descent, although you can also descend on the blue line but you’d need to re-summit Blarney Peak.
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Independence LakeIndependence Lake is a serene and beautiful spot located in Pitkin County. This natural lake is nestled in the mountains, and it is a perfect place to enjoy a day of fishing, hiking, or simply picnicking with friends or family. The lake itself is fairly small, but it is deep and clear, with plenty of fish to be caught. There are also several hiking trails nearby that offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery. In short, Independence Lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
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Lost Man LakeLost Man Lake is a small alpine lake located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The lake is situated at an elevation of 11,760 feet, and is surrounded by mountains and forests. Lost Man Lake is a popular destination for hikers and campers, who come to enjoy the scenic views and the peaceful atmosphere. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and small mammals.Lost Man Lake is a beautiful and secluded spot that is well worth a visit.
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Ouray PeakA majestic summit in the Sawatch Mountains of Colorado. It offers beautiful views and also it is a good trekking destination too. The peak is 6 mi south of Independence Pass in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness of San Isabel National Forest.

Discover More Attractions in Pitkin County, Home of Independence Ghost Town

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Pitkin County
Pitkin County is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, just southwest of Aspen. The county is home to several ski resorts, as well as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Tourism is a major industry in Pitkin County, and the area is popular for both winter and summer recreation. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, while in the summer they can hike, fish, and camp. The county is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the

Location of Independence Ghost Town


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