Fall is a perfect time to visit Aspen. The weather is starting to cool off, and once late November starts creeping up, you can even set out on some skiing and snowboarding adventures! Before the mountains are open for the season, however, one of our favorite ways to spend time here in the fall is exploring Aspen’s ghost towns and other historic sites!
Sound like fun? Come along with us as we explore some of our favorite spots in Aspen. Learn how you can see Aspen's frightening ghost towns and other historic sites below!
Ashcroft Ghost Town
Have you ever visited a true ghost town? You can uncover the secrets of Aspen’s past when you visit Ashcroft or Independence Ghost Towns, both towns that have been frozen in time. Experience life in the 1800’s when you visit here!
Ashcroft was once a booming mine town in the days of silver mining in Aspen. You can take a guided tour to really dive into the history of the town, or you can explore the area on your own.
The Castle Creek area was once home to the Ute people, who hunted and foraged here. When settlers started moving into the valley to mine for silver in the 1880’s, they forcibly displaced the Utes into reservations in eastern Utah and southern Colorado.
Ashcroft declined nearly as quickly as it boomed, leaving a ghost town in its wake. Many new settlers to Ashcroft were moving to Aspen as early as 1883. It officially became a ghost town in 1912, when the population dwindled to less than 50 residents.
Nowadays, Ashcroft draws thousands of visitors due to its unique history as a ghost town in Aspen. Points of interest include the Kinney Mercantile Store and the Post Office, both staples of an 1800’s society. Make sure to check it out during your stay in Aspen!
Independence Ghost Town
Not too far from Ashcroft lies another ghost town, Independence. Independence was actually the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley! Prospectors discovered the now-ghost town on July 4, 1879, so its name is fitting.
Independence produced over $190,000 of gold between 1881 and 1882, but by August 1882 the mines and mill both closed. The population dwindled to less than 100 by 1888, and record snowfall in 1899 finally caused the town’s official end.
The Aspen Historical Society gained a permit in 1975 to preserve and maintain the ghost town, and it’s now a popular destination for tourists. It’s an informative way to learn more about Aspen’s history and the background of silver mining in the west, as well as the displacement of the Ute people.
Ute City
Ute City is Aspen’s oldest burial ground, so you can imagine there’s a lot of paranormal activity to uncover here. In the fall, you can book a tour through Dean’s Aspen Tours to hear more about the people who inhabit the cemetery.
Every grave here holds a chapter of the story of the American West. Take a step back into history and listen to these incredible stories that take you off the beaten path. These chapters are sometimes forgotten in Aspen’s history. You can hear about the lonely buffalo soldier and make a toast to the Scotsman on this historical tour. Don’t miss out on this Aspen hidden gem!
Red Butte Cemetery
Many Aspen locals say that the best time to check out Red Butte Cemetery is during a full moon. Look up your astrological calendar and get ready to head here next moon cycle!
Walking around any cemetery in the dark is spooky, and the graves dating back to the 1800’s add to the allure of Red Butte. Plus, after your moonlit stroll you can stop by the J-Bar and hear some amazingly haunted stories from the bartender there.
Wheeler/Stallard Museum
Open Tuesdays-Saturdays 1-5 PM
The Wheeler/Stallard Museum is a relic from Aspen’s booming silver mining days. The Aspen Historical Society beautifully restored this historical building and maintain it with the utmost care. The museum offers you a glimpse into what life in Aspen looked like in the 1800/1900’s!
Walk through the home to really envision life in the late 1890’s. It’s filled with fully refurbished furniture from the time period to really make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The first floor of the building is actually home to the Aspen Historical Society, as well, so it remains the same year-round. The second floor holds many changing exhibits. This historical home is definitely worth the trip!
Book Your Spooky Stay in Aspen Directly with McCartney Properties!
Who knew Aspen had so many ghost towns and historical sites to explore? Now that you know of all of these incredible spots, it’s time to book your trip to Aspen.
When you’re searching for the perfect vacation rental to return home to in Aspen after a day of spooky ghost tours, look no further than McCartney Property Management.
Whether you’re looking to kick back in luxury in a luxury rental with hot tub or just want to be sure you can bring your doggo along for the trip in a pet-friendly rental, we have a wide range of amenities to choose from. We also provide long-term rentals options for those who want to stay here a while. No matter which option you choose, you can’t go wrong when you stay with McCartney. We’ve got you covered, whether you want to stay in a private home or a luxury condo!
What are you waiting for? Browse our available Aspen vacation rentals now and book your fall trip to Aspen directly with McCartney Properties!