Ghost Towns of the Rockies

Naturita

Ghost town in Montrose County, Colorado · Western Slope district

Founded
1882
Peak Population
~1,200
Elevation
5,430 ft
Primary Industry
other
County
Montrose
Coordinates
38.2228, -108.5625
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps)

History

Originally a ranching community, Naturita boomed during the 1940s-60s uranium rush. Population peaked at over 1,200 during the Cold War uranium demand. When uranium prices crashed, the town declined sharply. Today about 635 residents remain.

Visiting Naturita

What remains: Near-ghost. ~635 residents. Uranium/vanadium mining heritage.

Access: Highway 141 in western Colorado. Paved.

Photos

The Naturita, Colorado town hall, located at 222 east Main Street in Naturita, Colorado.
The Naturita, Colorado town hall, located at 222 east Main Street in Naturita, Colorado. — Jeffrey Beall (CC BY 4.0)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Naturita?

Naturita is located in Montrose County, Colorado, in the Western Slope area at an elevation of 5,430 ft, coordinates 38.2228, -108.5625.

Can you visit Naturita today?

Highway 141 in western Colorado. Paved.

What remains at Naturita?

Near-ghost. ~635 residents. Uranium/vanadium mining heritage.

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