Ironton Townsite [Suggest Edits]

Description

Ironton Townsite is located just off Highway 550 between Silverton and Ouray, making it a must-stop for anyone passing through. The ghost town isn't visible from the highway, and the turnoff can be easy to miss, so be sure to keep an eye out for it! The townsite is just a short stroll from the parking area.

Ironton was an old mining town, established in 1883. The town, believe it or not, really flourished for a while. By 1890 there were plank sidewalks, saloons, brothels, graded streets, a schoolhouse, two churches and upwards of 1000 residents during the summer months.

The beginning of the end started in 1893 when the Sherman Act was repealed, causing the price of silver and mining activity to plummet. There were some small rebounds, but in 1920 the post office closed and the following year the railroad ceased operations. The last resident of Ironton passed away in the 1960s, turning Ironton into an official ghost town.

Today visitors can walk the grounds of the once booming town, explore the several buildings that are still standing (use caution if entering inside), and imagine what life must have once been like here.

Short Walk: Parking available. Easy stroll through the ghost town.

Family Friendly: Easy stroll through the abandoned ghost town.

Gem Type: Historic Site