Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Capitol City

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

Founded
1877
Peak Population
~400
Elevation
9,600 ft
Primary Industry
silver
County
Hinsdale
Coordinates
38.0072, -107.4667
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps)

History

Founded by George T. Lee who ambitiously named it Capitol City, hoping it would become the state capital. Had a post office, smelter, brick mansion (Lee's), and multiple mines. Silver crash of 1893 ended its ambitions permanently.

Visiting Capitol City

What remains: Foundations and a few cabin ruins remain

Access: 4WD via Henson Creek Road from Lake City. Part of Alpine Loop.

Photos

Capitol City, Colo. This ghost town once had a population of 400; its founders wanted it to become the capitol of Colorado. The post office, some outb
Capitol City, Colo. This ghost town once had a population of 400; its founders wanted it to become the capitol — robert thigpen from diboll, texas (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Two children and a dog in Capitol City (Galena City), Hinsdale County, Colorado, circa 1880-1900.
Two children and a dog in Capitol City (Galena City), Hinsdale County, Colorado, circa 1880-1900. — Unknown authorUnknown author (Public domain)
A view of Capitol City, Colorado, in Hinsdale County.
A view of Capitol City, Colorado, in Hinsdale County. — Jeffrey Beall (CC BY 4.0)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Capitol City?

Capitol City is located in Hinsdale County, Colorado, in the San Juan Mountains area at an elevation of 9,600 ft, coordinates 38.0072, -107.4667.

Can you visit Capitol City today?

4WD via Henson Creek Road from Lake City. Part of Alpine Loop.

What remains at Capitol City?

Foundations and a few cabin ruins remain

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