St. Elmo Ghost Town
St. Elmo Ghost Town is a well-preserved historic ghost town located near Nathrop, Colorado, in the heart of the Sawatch Range.
St. Elmo Ghost Town in Nathrop, CO
St. Elmo is an abandoned mining town that was founded in 1880 during Colorado’s mining boom. Today, it is a ghost town, with many of its original structures still standing, including the general store, hotel, schoolhouse, and private residences. Though it’s no longer inhabited, visitors can walk through the town to explore its historic buildings and imagine what life was like during its peak.
St. Elmo Ghost Town, once a thriving mining town during Colorado’s gold rush era, it is now a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor adventurers. Known for its rustic charm, the town offers a glimpse into Colorado’s rich mining history while surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
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General Information
Visit St-Elmo.com to learn more about St. Elmo Ghost Town, it’s history and events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at St. Elmo Ghost Town?
- Explore the Town: Walk through the streets of St. Elmo and marvel at the well-preserved buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th century. The general store is often open for souvenirs and snacks during the summer months.
- Photography: With its rustic buildings and dramatic mountain backdrop, St. Elmo is a favorite destination for photographers looking to capture Colorado’s history and natural beauty.
- ATV and Off-Roading: St. Elmo is a popular starting point for ATV and off-road adventures, with trails like Tincup Pass offering access to breathtaking alpine scenery.
- Hiking: Nearby trails, such as the Chalk Creek Trail and Tincup Pass Trail, offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area around St. Elmo is known for its wildlife, including chipmunks and deer. The chipmunks in particular are famous for their friendliness and love of sunflower seeds.
- Fishing: Chalk Creek, which runs through the town, is a great spot for trout fishing, adding a relaxing element to your visit.
What is nearby the St. Elmo Ghost Town?
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort: Located about 15 minutes away, this resort offers geothermal pools and spa services, perfect for unwinding after exploring the ghost town.
- Tincup Pass: A rugged off-road trail leading to the town of Tincup, offering stunning views of the Rockies and great for ATV enthusiasts.
- Buena Vista: Just 30 minutes away, this charming town offers restaurants, breweries, and outdoor activities such as rafting on the Arkansas River.
- Chalk Cliffs: A striking natural formation near the Mount Princeton area that’s great for photos and sightseeing.
- San Isabel National Forest: Surrounding St. Elmo, this forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.
When was St. Elmo Ghost Town built?
St. Elmo was founded in 1880 as a mining hub during Colorado’s gold and silver rush. At its peak, the town had a population of about 2,000 people, along with a telegraph office, saloons, a school, and even a newspaper. Mining operations centered around gold and silver from nearby mines in the Chalk Creek Valley.
However, like many mining towns, St. Elmo’s prosperity declined in the early 20th century as the mines depleted and the railroad ceased operations. By the 1920s, most residents had left, leaving the town virtually abandoned.
St. Elmo remained a ghost town for decades but has since been preserved by private efforts and historical societies. Many of the buildings have been maintained to reflect their original state, making it one of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns.
Is St. Elmo Ghost Town open year-round?
Yes, St. Elmo is open year-round, but access may be limited during winter months due to snow, making some roads impassable.
Is there an admission fee to visit St. Elmo Ghost Town?
No, visiting St. Elmo is free. However, donations to preservation efforts are appreciated.
Can you go inside the St. Elmo buildings?
Most of the buildings are privately owned and not open to the public, but you can enter the general store and see the exteriors of other historic structures.
Are there guided tours available at St. Elmo?
St. Elmo does not typically offer guided tours, but informational signs around the town provide historical context. Some local tour operators may offer off-road tours that include the ghost town.