Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Iola

Ghost town in Gunnison County, Colorado · Gunnison district

Founded
1882
Peak Population
~300
Elevation
7,500 ft
Primary Industry
railroad
County
Gunnison
Coordinates
38.4750, -107.0972
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps)

History

A railroad stop and later a popular fly-fishing resort. When Blue Mesa Reservoir was built in the 1960s, Iola was submerged. In 2018, severe drought dropped the reservoir to 39% capacity, dramatically exposing 15+ building foundations including the general store and school flagpole -- a haunting underwater ghost town briefly revealed.

Visiting Iola

What remains: Submerged under Blue Mesa Reservoir. Building foundations exposed during 2018 drought.

Access: Normally underwater. Blue Mesa Reservoir visible from Highway 50.

Photos

A serene lake with hills in the background, framed by trees and shrubs. A boat ramp with a closed gate has a yellow sign reading “Iola Boat Ramp, OPEN
A serene lake with hills in the background, framed by trees and shrubs. A boat ramp with a closed gate has a y — Craig Talbert (CC BY 4.0)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Iola?

Iola is located in Gunnison County, Colorado, in the Gunnison area at an elevation of 7,500 ft, coordinates 38.4750, -107.0972.

Can you visit Iola today?

Normally underwater. Blue Mesa Reservoir visible from Highway 50.

What remains at Iola?

Submerged under Blue Mesa Reservoir. Building foundations exposed during 2018 drought.

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