Ghost Towns of the Rockies

St. Elmo

Ghost town in Chaffee County, Colorado · Upper Arkansas district

Founded
1880
Peak Population
~2,000
Elevation
10,028 ft
Primary Industry
gold
County
Chaffee
Coordinates
38.7000, -106.3450
View on Interactive Map Directions (Google Maps)

History

Founded as Forest City, renamed St. Elmo after a popular novel. The Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad arrived in 1880, making it a supply hub. The nearby Mary Murphy Mine yielded an estimated $60 million in gold. When the railroad ceased operations in 1922, the town died. Today 43 original buildings remain along the main street.

Visiting St. Elmo

What remains: Best-preserved ghost town in Colorado. 43 original buildings. General store, cabin rentals. ~50,000 visitors/year.

Access: County Road 162 from Nathrop (about 16 miles on good gravel). Passenger car OK in summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is St. Elmo?

St. Elmo is located in Chaffee County, Colorado, in the Upper Arkansas area at an elevation of 10,028 ft, coordinates 38.7000, -106.3450.

Can you visit St. Elmo today?

County Road 162 from Nathrop (about 16 miles on good gravel). Passenger car OK in summer.

What remains at St. Elmo?

Best-preserved ghost town in Colorado. 43 original buildings. General store, cabin rentals. ~50,000 visitors/year.

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