Revitalizing Colorado Ghost Towns

In much of America, towns are reimagined rather than abandoned. After the decline of the whaling industry, Cape Cod’s villages evolved into popular vacation spots. However, the West has always been distinct. The boom-and-bust cycles of oil and mineral discovery, combined with seemingly endless land reserves, meant that from the 19th century, entire towns were constructed only to be deserted within a few years.

Now, as architects and planners advocate for greater recycling of buildings and public spaces, many of these places are being ingeniously repurposed as vacation destinations. Colorado, in particular, is home to more than 1,500 uninhabited towns that are undergoing remarkable transformations.

CampV: A Unique Experience

CampV is one notable example of this transformation. A trio of Telluride-based architects has skillfully turned this outpost, originally built in 1942 around a uranium mill, into a vibrant compound reminiscent of Burning Man. Guests can enjoy eclectic accommodations such as restored historic cabins, Airstreams, and chic tents, all set against the stunning backdrop of the snowcapped San Juan Mountains.

New Sky Ranch: A Creative Retreat

Another establishment, New Sky Ranch, was once a sprawling 100-acre settler’s homestead bordering the Rio Grande National Forest. It has now transformed into a hip campsite and creative retreat that plans to host workshops on sustainable building techniques. The artistic owners, Victor Rivera and Gigi Douglas, are gradually renovating old miners’ cabins and a barn that once served as a dance hall.

Crystal Mill: Blending History and Sustainability

Among the picturesque Elk Mountains, the rickety wooden Crystal Mill stands as one of Colorado’s most photographed historic sites. Chris Cox, the owner of the Crystal ghost town, is currently revamping this former silver-mining camp into a sustainable retreat featuring 20 luxurious cabins and a farm-to-table restaurant. Activities such as fishing, horseback riding, and excellent backcountry skiing are anticipated to attract a new generation of adventurers to this enchanting locale.

As these once-abandoned towns are increasingly embraced for their historical value and potential, they are being turned into trendy vacation spots that offer unique experiences and a connection to Colorado’s rich heritage.