Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Beartown

Ghost town in San Juan County, Colorado · San Juan Mountains district

Founded
1877
Peak Population
~400
Elevation
11,600 ft
Primary Industry
silver
County
San Juan
Coordinates
37.7560, -107.5190
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps) Wikipedia

History

A remote silver camp that boomed briefly at extreme elevation. Despite its isolation, it had saloons, a hotel, and several stores. The extreme remoteness and harsh winters led to abandonment by the mid-1880s.

Visiting Beartown

What remains: Several collapsed cabin ruins and at least one partially standing cabin. Mine tailings visible.

Access: Very rough 4WD road from Rio Grande Reservoir side or Silverton over Kite Lake. One of the most remote ghost towns in Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Beartown?

Beartown is located in San Juan County, Colorado, in the San Juan Mountains area at an elevation of 11,600 ft, coordinates 37.7560, -107.5190.

Can you visit Beartown today?

Very rough 4WD road from Rio Grande Reservoir side or Silverton over Kite Lake. One of the most remote ghost towns in Colorado.

What remains at Beartown?

Several collapsed cabin ruins and at least one partially standing cabin. Mine tailings visible.

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