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‘Ghosts’ of Glenwood’s past to inhabit Hotel Colorado

Entertainment Entertainment | Jul 12, 2019

Walk back in time

What: Guided tours by the “ghosts” of colorful characters from Glenwood Springs’ past

Where: Hotel Colorado, 526 Pine St., Glenwood Springs

When: 7 p.m. Saturdays and 10:15 a.m. Sundays through Labor Day

Registration: HotelColorado.com or call 970-945-6511

Ghosts will come alive at the Hotel Colorado every weekend through Labor Day this summer.

The Glenwood Springs Historical Society will begin offering guided tours, called “Walk Back In Time,” starting this weekend at the famously haunted hotel by the “‘ghosts’ of colorful characters from Glenwood Springs’ past,” according to a flyer put out by the organization.

The tours, which will happen each Saturday evening at 7 p.m. and Sunday morning at 10:15 a.m., will be guided by portrayalists who will inhabit — or be inhabited by — the spirits of Walter Devereux, the visionary builder of the Hotel Colorado; Jasper Ward, Town Marshal of New Castle; and frontierswoman Eleanora Malaby, among others.

This weekend, Devereux, portrayed by David Fulton, will lead the tours that will begin in the hotel’s lobby and move to the courtyard with a talk about the connection between the hotel, the Hot Springs pool, what used to be the hydroelectric plant, and the Yampa Hot Springs, which at one time were all owned by Devereux.

Fulton, as Devereux, will talk about his vision for Glenwood, which included the town becoming a tourist mecca for European aristocrats, prompting him to pattern the hotel’s design after an Italian villa.

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From there, the tour will move back inside and throughout the hotel where visitors will hear about some of the hotel’s most famous residents, such as Teddy Roosevelt, Al Capone and “Diamond” Jack Alterie.

But of course, it wouldn’t be a “Ghost” tour without actual ghosts. No problem there. The Hotel Colorado is frequently listed among the most haunted places in the state of Colorado.

“There’s just a lot of unexplained phenomena that have gone on there that make for interesting stories,” said Bill Kight, executive director of the Glenwood Springs Historical Society, who will portray Jasper Ward. “People believe or don’t believe; it doesn’t matter, because the stories are still there, and people have told them.”

Kight said that the author of an out-of-print book called “Apparition Manor: True Ghost Stories of the Hotel Colorado,” named Kathy Rippy Fleming, didn’t believe in ghosts until she started checking into all the stories.

“One of the most interesting stories that David Fulton tells as Devereux is, there have been many times people have seen a young lady bouncing a ball in the hallway dressed in period clothing, and we think that it’s his daughter,” Kight said.

The tour will also visit the infamous basement of the hotel, which served as a morgue for the Navy during World War II, and was also used as a brig.

Visitors also will get to see the secret tunnel leading from the basement to an outbuilding that Capone used to smuggle liquor into the hotel during prohibition. The gangster is also said to have used the tunnel to sneak ladies of the night into the hotel.

The basement was also used as stables for polo horses — a hydraulic lift carried the horses up and down — because in Devereux’s time they held polo games on fields located where Glenwood Springs High School now sits.

Kight said that the Historical Society may eventually parlay the ghost tours at the hotel into a revival of the popular ghost walks at Linwood Cemetery. But more portrayalists are needed in order for that to happen.

“If people are interested and want to try out, we’d be glad to help them,” he said. “It’s fun, so we want people to have fun.”

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Which ghost towns are near what Colorado towns?

July 16, 2024 By //  by  Matt Thomas

Visiting one of Colorado’s spooky ghost towns is a bucket list item for many. While few expect to see ghosts, nearly everyone who goes can appreciate the sightseeing opportunity of exploring abandoned former towns.

Ghost towns are an interesting, cerebral side-stop to add to your road trip . Most of these old mining villages are located at higher elevations in the Rocky Mountains, so the views are gorgeous and a lot like taking a mountain stroll with ruins and relics to stare at too. Whether you’re just passing through the county or camping locally, consider hitting a few of these ghost towns near you.

Let’s go over some popular vacation towns and the ghost towns closest to them. Most are on federal land and open to the public for free year-round, depending on weather access. A lot of them will be snowed out and unreachable and likely the reason they went belly up. However, with a few gems you could spend a weird winter day lost in an old ghost town like Saint Elmo.

Some of these require a little hiking to reach, but most can be driven nearly right up to and park. Others, however, do require 4-wheel-drive and high clearance, the latter usually is more important. Please respect any of the ghost towns you visit, do not remove or damage anything, and make sure to clean up your trash.

Several of these communities are only semi-ghosts and have seasonal or year-round residents who appreciate their natural beauty and privacy. Also, there are many more ghost towns and ancient relics that aren’t listed below, waiting to be discovered.

Map of Colorado’s Top Ghost Towns

Here are the g host towns near _ _______ , CO , in alphabetical order: (click anchor link to jump to town)

• Breckenridge
• Colorado Springs
• Copper Mountain
• Crested Butte
• Fort Collins
• Glenwood Springs
• Grand Junction
• Idaho Springs
• Pagosa Springs
• Silverthorne
• Steamboat Springs
• Winter Park

Ghost towns near Alamosa

East of the San Luis Valley (SLV) you’ll climb over La Veta Pass. There’s an opportunity there to detour and take the old pass and check out Uptop. Otherwise, there are a lot of interesting structures situated around the mysterious SLV. The closest ghost towns to Alamosa , CO are:

• Orient (57mi)
• Uptop Historic District (59mi)
• Bachelor City (mi)
• North Creede (mi)
• Bonanza (mi)

Ghost towns near Aspen

Aspen’s blessed with a couple of nearby ghost towns that are well preserved, including Ashcroft and Independence. The latter is easily reached by 2WD and pavement along CO-82/ Independence Pass. The closest ghost towns to Aspen , CO are:

• Ashcroft (12mi)
• Independence  (13mi)
• Twin Lakes  (39mi)
• Crystal (63mi)

Ghost towns near Avon/Beaver Creek

Those in the Eagle County, around Beaver Creek, can head east to Vail and then duck off the highway to find Gilman. This one is especially eerie because it’s so modern. Plans to redevelop the area haven’t yet materialized for the old company town and you only observe from the road. The closest ghost towns to Avon , CO are:

• Gilman (12mi)
• Camp Hale (21mi)

Ghost towns near Boulder

The close proximity to the front range cities like Boulder and Denver, along with early nearby gold strikes, created a myriad of ghost towns that aren’t too far west. This region has a good mix of 2WD and 4WD-only routes, so it’s easy to take a day trip into the hills. The closest ghost towns to Boulder , CO are:

• Caribou (19mi)
• Corona (21mi)
• Apex (36mi)
• Nevadaville (38mi)
• Russell Gulch (44mi)

Ghost towns near Breckenridge

Breckenridge was a mining boomtown. that’s still one of the most popular places today. There are some ghost towns in the region, Dyersville being amongst the closest. Take Boreas Pass to Indian Gulch where you can view it. Or head back to Keystone and check out the semi-ghost community of Montezuma. The closest ghost towns to Breckenridge , CO are:

• Dyersville (9mi)
• Montezuma (20mi)

Ghost towns near Buena Vista

Nestled against the Collegiate Peaks, Buena Vista is a stunning place surrounded by some well-preserved ghost towns. The continental divide runs north-south just west of town and there are plenty of abandoned mining villages on both sides of the famous range.

Clear Creek Canyon has 4 former towns to scout out, suitable for 2WD, but on a rough rutted road. St Elmo, just to the south in Nathrop, is probably the biggest ghost town in the state. Ignore Antero Junction. The closest ghost towns to Buena Vista , CO are:

• Antero Junction (16mi)
• Hancock (mi)
• St. Elmo (22mi)
• Vicksburg (22mi)
• Twin Lakes (25mi)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
• Winfield (26mi)
• Bonanza (60mi)

Read about the 4 ghost towns of Clear Creek Canyon .

Ghost towns near Colorado Springs

While there are likely some abandoned towns to the east of Colorado Springs on the plains, it’s much cooler (in temps) heading west up into the mountains. Goldfield is a semi-ghost community outside Victor. While there around Cripple Creek, definitely follow the Gold Belt Tour, suitable for 2WD, but there is a nice 4×4 “shortcut”.

Additionally, there’s a difficult 6-mile hike to reach the rewarding Skagway Power Plant. The closest ghost towns to Colorado Springs , CO are:

• Goldfield (45mi)
• Skagway Power Plant (55mi)

Ghost towns near Copper Mountain

The resort community of Copper has a few options in the region to just out some high-altitude deserted spots. Montezuma lies around the corner from A Basin, or if you want to visit Breck for the day, consider adding Dyersville to your itinerary. Gilman is a really unique option if you’re heading into the Vail Valley.  The closest ghost towns to Copper Mountain , CO are:

• Climax (19mi)
• Montezuma   (24mi)
• Geneva City (27mi)
• Dyersville (27mi)
• Gilman (33mi)

Ghost towns near Crested Butte

Situated in spacious Gunnison County, Crested Butte provides a few local options for exploring possibly haunted places. Add Gothic to your list because it’s easy to access north of town and well preserved. The old Crystal Mill and townsite lie even further from this, but require a high-clearance 4×4 and navigating one of Colorado’s most dangerous roads. The Crystal Mill can also be accessed on the opposite side more easily through Marble, Colo; a detour over Kebler Pass and north to Marble. The closest ghost towns to Crested Butte , CO are:

• Gothic – (mi)
• Ohio City (mi)
• Bowerman (mi)
• Crystal (mi)

Ghost towns near Denver

If you’re in the Mile High City and want to check out a ghost town, consider the Auraria campus. It may not be exactly what you’re looking for, but the Victorian-styled strip of historic homes turned campus admin buildings has a certain ghost town appeal. Try to catch it when the students aren’t bustling thru the campus, early morning, evening, or holiday.

Auraria, CO was built as the first permanent settlement in 1858 before Denver on the west side of Cherry Creek. The closest ghost towns to Denver , CO are:

• Auraria Ninth Street Historic Park (<1mi)
• Mount Vernon (19mi)
• Apex (37mi)
• Russell Gulch (38mi)
• Corona (44mi)
• Caribou (47mi)

Ghost towns near Dillon

The best ghost town to visit in Dillon is the one underneath its reservoir. That’s right. The original town of Dillon was moved and the rest buried beneath a manmade reservoir in the 1950s to make way for Denver’s new water supply, so you’ll need scuba gear and probably a guide to get to this one.

Otherwise, just drive your 2wd car around the corner to semi-ghost Montezuma. The closest ghost towns to Dillon , CO are:

• Montezuma   (12mi)
• Geneva City (15mi)
• Dyersville (22mi)

Ghost towns near Durango

The largest mountain town in Southwest Colorado was a hub of the region then and still is today. You can drive along the San Juan Skyway in any direction and pass several interesting ghost towns and mining structures. Consider hopping on the Durango & Silverton train for a step back in time too. The closest ghost towns to Durango , CO are:

• Graysill Mines (40mi)
• Eureka (59mi)
• Animas Forks (60mi)
• Capitol City (72mi)
• Ironton (mi)
• Red Mountain Town (mi)
• Guston (mi)
• Eureka (mi)

Ghost towns near Estes Park

Visit the unique Homestead Meadows near Estes Park, where you can view a few still standing structures. Instead of the town being founded for mining, it was used for lumber and farming. Then head south on the Peak-to-Peak Byway and stop in on Caribou City by Nederland. The closest ghost towns to Estes Park , CO are:

• Homestead Meadows  (7mi)
• Caribou City (39mi)

Ghost towns near Fairplay

While in South Park, visit South Park City. This “ghost town museum” was reassembled in Fairplay and gathered from all around the South Park basin . It includes a whole slew of buildings that you can go inside and are furnished with late-1800s and early-1900s goods and items.

Otherwise, the expansive South Park has old stuff to see, but most of the former towns don’t provide much evidence. The closest ghost towns to Fairplay , CO are:

• South Park City (<0mi)
• Antero Junction (21mi)
• Tarryall (45mi)

Ghost towns near Fort Collins

Located east of Greeley on the plains is the unique ghost town of Dearfield, a predominantly black settlement. You could also head into the mountains near Estes to see the old lumber and farming village of Homestead Meadows. The closest ghost towns to Fort Collins , CO are:

• Homestead Meadows (45mi)
• Dearfield (57mi)

Ghost towns near Frisco

Two-wheel drive vehicles can swing by Montezuma to see some history but expect a few year-round residents who enjoy their privacy and clean setting. If you’re equipped with a high clearance vehicle, you can head up Boreas Pass by Breck to see Dyersville. The closest ghost towns to Frisco , CO are:

• Montezuma (16mi)
• Geneva City (17mi)
• Dyersville (18mi)
• Climax (25mi)
• Oro City (32mi)
• Gillman (38mi)
• Twin Lakes (51mi)

Ghost towns near Glenwood Springs

South of Glenwood lies the hidden village of Marble. It’s not a ghost town by any means, but it is tiny, secluded, with a lot of history. From there, if you have a proper high-clearance 4×4, you can access the Crystal Mill site, a famous setting that you’d likely recognize from photos. The closest ghost towns to Glenwood Springs , CO are:

• Crystal  (46mi)
• Ashcroft (51mi)

Ghost towns near Granby

Most of the ghost towns will be a decent drive from Granby. In the summer you can head north and check out the North Park basin . There the town of Walden might feel like a ghost town. On the way, Teller City has some fallen ruins to check out, 4wd is recommended. The closest ghost towns to Granby , CO are:

• Teller City (41mi)

Ghost towns near Grand Junction

South of Grand Junction, the Unaweep Tabeguache Byway runs from Whitewater to Placerville. This is a gorgeous drive that’s well off the beaten path and has plenty of old relics along the route. If you’re up for a longer cool road trip loop, you can venture east to Marble via Glenwood Springs and Carbondale, and then swing back through Paonia and Delta. Marble is the gateway to the very photographed Crystal Mill. The closest ghost towns to Grand Junction , CO are:

• Crystal (111mi)

Ghost towns near Grand Lake

Grand Lake has a charming historic district that is a joy to stroll. If you’re doing Trail Ridge Road to Estes Park, you can dip off to Homestead Meadows after. If not, maybe leave the Middle Park basin for North Park. The closest ghost towns to Grand Lake , CO are:

• Homestead Meadows (55mi)
• Teller City (55mi)

Ghost towns near Idaho Springs

Considering one of first big gold strikes in Colorado occurred around present day Central City, it’s no surprise there are some interesting, abandoned places in the area. Tour these old villages and then consider one of Idaho Springs’ mining tours . The closest ghost towns to Idaho Springs , CO are:

• Russel Gulch (5mi)
• Apex (16mi)
• Nevadaville (12mi)

Ghost towns near Keystone

Backtracking on Highway 6 from Keystone past A Basin, y0u can detour to Montezuma. Respect the current residents but marvel at the history around this sleepy village. It shares its post office with Keystone. Geneva City is further tucked away from Montezuma, and doable for those with 4WD. The closest ghost towns to Keystone , CO are:

• Montezuma (mi)
• Geneva City (mi)
• Russell Gulch (55mi)
• Apex (55mi)
• Webster (63mi)

Ghost towns near Leadville

Oro City is found just southwest of Leadville and is home to a few still-standing structures. Camp Hale was the training grounds for the 10th Mountain Division and a worthy cerebral stop. Heading south toward Twin Lakes, you should certainly check out Clear Creek Canyon and the likes of Vicksburg and Winfield. The closest ghost towns to Leadville , CO are:

• Oro City (2mi)
• Climax (4mi)
• Camp Hale (15mi)
• Twin Lakes (21mi)
• Gilman (25mi)
• Vicksburg (27mi)
• Winfield (31mi)
• Independence (38mi)

Ghost towns near Ouray

Like the rest of the southwest, there is a myriad of old mining roads traversing the hillsides. With the right 4-wheel-drive vehicle, you can access it all. Jeep and ATV rentals are available in town to cruise the Alpine Loop between Ouray, Silverton, and Lake City. 2-wheelers can stick to the pavement on the Million Dollar Highway and see sights like Ironton and Red Mountain Town.

The closest ghost towns to Ouray , CO are:

• Ironton (7mi)
• Guston Number 5 Mine  (11mi)
• Red Mountain Town (12mi)
• Capitol City (21mi)
• Henson (26mi)
• Animas Forks (31mi)
• Eureka (31mi)
• Carson (45mi)
• Tomboy (54mi)
• Alta (56mi)

Ghost towns near Pagosa Springs

There are a lot of ruins and relics to be discovered in the southwest. For a non-traditional ghost town experience, consider Chimney Rock to the southwest of town. There you can discover the Ancient Puebloan community, an old village, and kiva.

Further south by the New Mexico border lies Pagosa Junction, which can be a fun drive down to a much more secluded part of the country. The closest ghost towns to Pagosa Springs , CO are:

• Pagosa Junction (27mi)
• Weaver (62mi)

Ghost towns near Pueblo

Southwest of Colorado’s Steel City, lies the eccentric Sangre de Cristo mountain town of Westcliffe. From here, you can do some small-town city stuff like shop and eat, and then head out to Rosita and Querida, two of the local ghost towns. If you’re already going south on I-25, Ludlow is a historic landmark with ruins and a monument to visit. The closest ghost towns to Pueblo , CO are:

• Rosita (50mi)
• Querida (50mi)
• Ludlow (72mi)

Ghost towns near Salida

The cool riverside town of Salida, Colorado is a convenient basecamp for a spooky adventure. Going north towards Buena Vista, you can swing by up Chalk Creek Canyon and the popular Saint Elmo ghost town. Going south on Highway 285 leads you into the strange San Luis Valley.

The UFO Watch Tower is a quirky landmark to explore and then maybe take an easy hike out to Orient ghost town and a bat cave, before dipping in the local hot spring waters. The closest ghost towns to Salida , CO are:

• Orient (26mi)
• St. Elmo (32mi)
• Antero Junction (35mi)
• Bonanza (41mi)
• Vicksburg (41mi)
• Twin Lakes (46mi)
• Winfield (51mi)

Ghost towns near Silverthorne

Another Summit County town, Silverthorne has a few alright ghost town options. The closest is Montezuma, which is part of Keystone’s mailing address, has a few year-round and seasonal residents. Geneva City is found a little further from that Montezuma. The closest ghost towns to Silverthorne , CO are:

• Montezuma (13mi)
• Geneva City (14mi)
• Dyersville (23mi)
• Webster (47mi)

Ghost towns near Silverton

The San Juan Skyway, which loops from Durango to Ouray to Telluride and back around again, has numerous old relics from its mining heyday(s). Silverton sits at the start of the Million Dollar Highway, a stretch of the loop with some great ghost towns. You can also connect to Lake City via the Alpine 4×4 Loop, a spectacular journey between three cool towns and many former ones. The closest ghost towns to Silverton , CO are:

• Animas Forks (mi)
• Graysill Mines (mi)
• Carson (mi)
• Henson (mi)

Ghost towns near Steamboat Springs

Driving into Steamboat Springs from any direction and one can see spot old ruins along the way. Highway 40 and US 131 are the main routes into town, there’s even some former ski trails carved out of the mountainside behind Stagecoach Reservoir. But there aren’t many ghost towns. Although still populated, Hahns Peak Village , secluded north of Clark is an interesting look back into time and Teller City resides in vacant North Park . The closest ghost towns to Steamboat Springs , CO are:

• Teller City (67mi)

Ghost towns near Telluride

Southwest Colorado is loaded with high-elevation boom-and-bust minings towns. One of the highest in Colorado is located near Telluride at over 11,500 ft. Access to the local Tomboy is reserved for the summer months. The same goes for Alta, which resides at 11,800 ft! The closest ghost towns to Telluride , CO are:

• Tomboy (4mi)
• Alta (13mi)
• Graysill Mines (30mi)
• Red Mountain (62mi)
• Guston Number 5 Mine (63mi)
• Ironton (64mi)

Ghost towns near Vail

Those in the Vail Valley can take US-24 south toward Leadville, passing the charming, secluded towns of Minturn and Red Cliff. In-between the two, there’s Gilman ghost town, a much more modern neighborhood than others on the list. Venture further to Camp Hale, while not a ghost town, has ruins from the 10th Mountain Division. The closest ghost towns to Vail , CO are:

• Gilman (13mi)
• Camp Hale (22mi)

Ghost towns near Winter Park

Winter Park has a nice scenic drive option for those with a high-clearance vehicle. Take the 4×4 Rollins (Corona) Pass just before the town on Highway 40 up to the old Corona apex station. Otherwise, there are some other options that require a bit of a drive. The closest ghost towns to Winter Park , CO are:

• Corona (11mi)
• Apex (45mi)
• Russell Gulch (46mi)
• Nevadaville (46mi)
• Mount Vernon (50mi)

As you can see, pretty much all the popular tourist mountain areas in Colorado are located nearby some old ghost town(s). Have fun exploring and remember to leave no trace and take only pictures. And consider combining your ghost town trek with a trip to a local hot springs near you .

About Matt Thomas

Matt is an avid writer and explorer, who loves to showcase this wild, wondrous world. His favorite place to be is right here in the Centennial State.

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13 Creepy Ghost Tours in Every City in Colorado

These colorado ghost tours are full of gore, paranormal activity, and terrifying tales sure to thrill this fall season.

Ready for Halloween? We’ve compiled a list of 13 of Colorado’s scariest ghost tours sure to chill you to the bone. No matter where you are in Colorado, you can find a tour near you. Sign up early – most will sell out! (listed in alphabetical order)

Uncover Aspen’s sordid past on this ghostly one-hour walking tour. One of Colorado’s most famous mountain towns will come alive as your expert guide reveals tales of terror dating back to 1879 and into the present. This unique experience will leave your skin crawling long after the tour!

Tour Provided By: Dean’s Aspen Tours | Book Now

2. Breckenridge

The ghosts of the Wild West will come out to play on this original walking tour that started in 2010. You’ll take part in the action – ghost hunting equipment included! Take this tour at night for the best effect or book a private tour in the daylight if you have little ones.

Tour Provided By: Breckenridge Tours | Book Now

3. Buena Vista

Buena Vista’s bloody past will surprise and shock you on this gruesome tour full of true stories. See the location of the city’s only legal hanging, the old red light district, and buildings which are said to be haunted to this day. From murder stories to restless spirits, you’ll have trouble sleeping after taking this tour!

Tour Provided By: Salida Walking Tours | Book Now

4. Colorado Springs

Having been founded in 1871, many say that the streets of downtown Colorado Springs are full of phantoms and tortured souls. Some stories are true, but others are not. Your tour guide, who will be from the Pikes Peak Writers Guild, will seduce you with spooky stories…but will you be tricked? Take the tour to find out! Each ticket includes a free coffee drink from Wild Goose Meeting House.

Tour Provided By: Downtown Colorado Springs | Book Now

5. Denver – Capitol Hill

Did you know that the horror movies The Changeling and Poltergeist were inspired by a site in Denver’s Capitol Hill? Visit this site along with a defunct burial site and several haunted mansions to include one belonging to famous Titanic survivor “Unsinkable Molly Brown.”

Tour Provided By: Denver Walking Tours | Book Now

6. Denver – Cheeseman Park

Cheeseman Park is Denver’s first cemetery and will scare even the strongest among us. This one-and-a-half hour walking tour is full of chilling stories and first-hand accounts of paranormal activity. Beware of walking on the graves…you can never be too sure who you might offend!

Tour Provided By: Denver Local Tours | Book Now

7. Denver – LoDo (Walking Tour Only)

It’s no coincidence that some of downtown Denver’s most popular haunts by day are actually haunted by night! This walking tour will take you to iconic sites including Union Station, Coors Field, The Oxford Hotel, and Larimer Street to unearth eerie accounts of shadowy figures.

Tour Provided By: Best Tours of Denver | Book Now

8. Denver – LoDo (Pub Crawl)

Quell your fear with a little liquid courage on this scary pub crawl in Denver’s downtown. You’ll go back in time to Prohibition when people used underground tunnels and seedy behavior was around every corner. Visit haunted bars and hear tales of gore and mystery. Tickets do not include the price of drinks.

Tour Provided By: Nightly Spirits | Book Now

9. Estes Park

When it comes to haunted mansion tours, nothing tops the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park. See the hotel room Steven King stayed in when he wrote The Shining and feel the strong paranormal activity as you pass through the halls. Guests of the hotel get discounted tickets.

Tour Provided By: The Stanley Hotel | Book Now

10. Fort Collins

Why stay above ground when you can go below to get even closer to the dearly departed? The Fort Collins Ghost Tour takes you further than just seeing the most spooky landmarks to actually going underneath them. The tour runs from Memorial Day through Christmas and is only $20 per person.

Tour Provided By: Fort Collins Tours | Book Now

Golden might be home to Coors Brewery and the School of Mines, but it is chock-full of blood-curdling stories. From lynchings to murders to a “night of terror,” there is more than what meets the eye in this picturesque town. Note: parental guidance is suggested, and children under the age of 13 are discouraged from participating.

Tour Provided By: Colorado Haunted History | Book Now

12. Manitou Springs

Many believe that ghosts still roam the streets of Manitou Springs in search of peace…or is it revenge? The Manitou Springs Heritage Center hosts shorter, 45-minute walking tours that provide a fun and theatrical experience. Don’t forget to visit their museum, which is free to the public.

Tour Provided By: Manitou Springs Heritage Center | Book Now

Did you know that Salida had its very own serial killer? Or a brothel that is haunted by its madam? Discover this and more on this 90-minute walking tour that features terrifying – and true – tales of the departed. Your guide will even get into the spirit of the night with a ghostly costume.

Let Colorado’s haunted past come alive with one of these chilling ghost tours! We hope you visit us as well while you’re in Colorado Springs on one of our walking food tours. They’re scary delicious! 😉

Cheers, Your  Rocky Mountain Food Tours Team

( So, what’s a food tour, anyway…? )

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Adam’s Delicious Experience on a Food Tour in San Diego’s Little Italy

Our tour guide Adam recently gorged on pizza, pasta, and gelato on a food tour in San Diego’s Little Italy Adam explored this vibrant neighborhood with the help of So Diego, one of San Diego’s premier food tour companies. The Biggest Little Italy Although you might think New York or Chicago lay claim to this … Read more

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GLENWOOD SPRINGS HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Home / Things To Do / Glenwood Springs Historical Society & Frontier Museum

Glenwood Springs Historical Society & Frontier Museum

In addition to their sell-out October Ghost Walk, passing on the stories of Glenwood’s past to curious new generations is what the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and Frontier Museum are all about. Exhibits at the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and Frontier Museum showcase what life was once like for residents and visitors in Glenwood Springs.

Ghost Walk Tickets are going on sale every year in early October.  Buy tickets here:  www.glenwoodhistory.com

The Frontier Museum

Enjoy a visit to a furnished, 1905 Victorian style house; discover more about ranching and mining in the area; learn about the Ute Indians and their connection to the region. In time, as the hot springs were developed, Glenwood Springs became a place for the world’s privileged class and attracted a diverse array of characters that included entrepreneurs, presidents, outlaws, gangsters, movie stars and more.

The Glenwood Springs Historical Society  offers self-guided walking tour pamphlets; a map and accompanying text take visitors through Glenwood’s western history while strolling through the downtown core and surrounding neighborhoods. Be sure to leave time to hike to Linwood “Pioneer” Cemetery where outlaws  John “Doc” Holliday  and Harvey “Kid Curry” Logan are both buried.

During the month of October, the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and Frontier Museum hosts its annual Ghost Walk through Linwood Cemetery when the ghosts of Glenwood’s past return for a few evenings of entertainment and education. The Ghost Walk is family friendly, and while a spirited air of spookiness surrounds the event, the “ghosts” are portrayed by actors who bring a magical quality to each performance. They also impart interesting historical anecdotes about what it was like to live in Glenwood Springs in the late 1880s to early 1900s.

Monday to Saturday 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

*Hours are subject to change, please call ahead to ensure availability.

Admission:  Adults $5.00, Children 12 and older and Senior Citizens $4.00, children under 12 Free.

MORE HISTORICAL THINGS TO DO

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Reservations to hike Hanging Lake are released on a weekly basis every Tuesday at 8:00 am MDT. 

 Visit the Hanging Lake page HERE for more information and the booking portal. 

A Not So Spooky Tour of Hotel Colorado

For a wild vacation experience, plan to stay at  Hotel Colorado  in Glenwood Springs. The town’s wildlife—from birds to bears—is becoming more active by the day. If you do have the good fortune of glimpsing any of the animals listed below, remember to always be respectful of wildlife and keep a safe distance. 

Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep.  These herd animals sometimes act as the welcoming crew for visitors coming to Glenwood Springs from Denver via westbound Interstate 70. They like to congregate on the steep slopes near  Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves . One year, a large ram caught sight of his reflection in a glass door at the Hotel Colorado and perceiving it as a competitor proceeded to “ram” the door, shattering the glass and then hightailing it away with his friends like a teenager caught doing something naughty.

Mule Deer.  Sweet-faced and long-legged, mule deer are named after their most distinctive feature: enormous ears that resemble those of—you guessed it—a mule. Like Bighorn sheep, they are social animals and can often be spotted munching on grasses and other edibles around the hotel and in the yards of Glenwood Springs residents. They rest in the shade during the day and graze at dawn and dusk, which is the best time to spot them. 

Birds of Prey.  Catch sight of magnificent birds of prey on nearby rivers. Bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks and vultures like to troll both the Colorado and the Roaring Fork rivers for tasty fish. If you’re lucky, you may just spot an eagle swoop down with radar precision and scoop up a Colorado rainbow trout. Human anglers will have to rely on their casting skills or schedule a float trip with a  local fishing guide  to reel in the catch of the day.

Black bears.  If you see a bear while visiting Glenwood Springs, even though it might be brown, it is a black bear. When it comes to bears, black is a species not a color. Black bears are shy creatures that generally avoid human contact. They subsist on berries, nuts, grasses and dead animal carcasses when they can get them. They have keen senses, including a nose that can detect food from five miles away! On a summery day several years ago, Hotel Colorado had its doors open when a curious young black bear strolled in, walked through the lobby and exited on the other side! 

Wapiti.  Otherwise known as elk, these majestic creatures are related to deer but are much larger with some weighing 1,100 pounds. They live on average eight to 20 years and when running can reach a top speed of 56 miles per hour! Elk are easy to recognize, not only does their size give them away other hallmarks include the buff-colored patch of fur on the rumps of both sexes and the magnificent antlers of the bulls. Big game hunters come from all around the world to hunt elk in  White River National Forest  surrounding Glenwood Springs. Herds can often be seen south of Glenwood Springs on  golf courses  and open lands near the Roaring Fork River.

Koi.  Not exactly native Colorado wildlife, but you’re guaranteed to see these colorful fish when you visit or stay at Hotel Colorado. A colorful species of carp that originated in Japan, the fish resemble giant goldfish. In winter when the water temperature drops, they go dormant. As the mercury rises, they reinvigorate becoming more active. Guests can get an up-close look at them swimming in the fountain located in the hotel’s courtyard, which will open for  dining and drinks as the weather warms in the coming weeks.  

Experience the wild side of nature in Glenwood Springs. Learn more and make plans to stay at  Hotel Colorado  today!  

Photos by Jason Cox – Elksongs Images

Haunted Places in Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Hotel Colorado

Glenwood springs, colorado.

At this 1893 hotel, witnesses say that the elevator works by itself, doors open and close on their own, and there is a phantom smell of cigat smoke in the lobby. The apparition of a little girl in Victorian clothing has been seen on the staircase, and if that weren't ...

Osgood Castle - Redstone Castle

Carbondale, colorado.

Folks say the ghost of the owner, John C. Osgood, still lingers on the property. Also lingering is the smell of his ghostly cigar smoke, which is how the caretaker detected the ghost's presence when no one else was on the property.

Pioneer Park - Henry Webber House

Aspen, colorado.

The Henry Webber House is said to be haunted by Harriet Webber, the wife of the home's builder. She reportedly died in 1881, interestingly enough four years before the house was built, of accidental strychnine poisoning.

Hotel Jerome

Reportedly haunted by the ghost of a boy who drowned in the swimming pool, a maid who died after falling into the ice covered pond and falling ill and other random hauntings. If you want to try your luck at a haunted room, pick 310, this is reportedly a ...

Meeker Hotel and Cafe

Meeker, colorado.

The Meeker Hotel and Café is an original establishment, which is over a century old and formerly served as the town military barracks against a local tribe. Four ghosts are reported to haunt the halls of the historic building, including a wandering little girl, a woman in old-fashioned garb, a ...

Oak Tree Inn

Yampa, colorado.

Located just down the street from the haunted Royal Hotel, this inn was built on the site of a former hospital. Guests staying here have reported seeing the apparition of a cowboy, smelling cigarette smoke and hearing two young children playing in the hotel corridors. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

Royal Hotel

This historic hotel is believed to be haunted by two spirits. The first is the apparition of a young woman who is seen rushing through the hallways of the hotel. Her disembodied footsteps have also been heard in various parts of the hotel. The second is a ghost the hotel ...

Bross Hotel Bed and Breakfast

Paonia, colorado.

This 1906 hotel is said to be haunted by original owner W.T. Bross's mother. Apparently when the building was refurbished in the 1990s, her spirit became uneasy and was seen and heard by many people. However, she is said to be a friendly ghost, and has even been known to ...

Crested Butte Cemetery

Crested butte, colorado.

An allegedly dirty and stinky but friendly hitchhiking ghost is said to come from the cemetery looking for passersby to give him a ride to Gothic. He's seen along the mountain near dawn, and isn't familiar with modern cars. He has been known to ask drivers “What do you call ...

Elk Mountain Lodge

The 1919 hotel was originally built for miners, and was used as such until the Big Mine closed in 1952. It changed hands and became the Elk Mountain Lodge. It still has the original coal stove and buttresses, and it's said to be haunted by the spirits of those who ...

Dogwood Cocktail Cabin

Before Dogwood Cocktail Cabin was a lounge, it was an actual cabin where miners once lived--and some still do. The ghosts of deceased miners are said to show up as anomalies on photographs taken inside.

Forest Queen Hotel

Forest Queen Hotel has a ghost named Elizabeth who stayed here long ago. According to local lore, she fell in love with a shady gambler and gave him her life's savings, after which he skipped town, leaving her broke. The distraught Elizabeth killed herself by jumping out the hotel window ...

Slogar’s is locally famous for its fried chicken--and its ghosts. Witnesses have seen apparitions of saloon girls in big skirts late at night.

The Pondy Pool Hall

Cedaredge, colorado.

Staff at this small town pool hall claim to have heard ghostly voices, seen doors slam shut of their own accord and have glimpsed apparitions out of the corner of their eye. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

Delaware Hotel

Leadville, colorado.

A painter, restoring one of the hotel's hallways, felt numerous cold spots. It is said that the spirit of Mary Coffey, who was shot in the back and paralysed by her husband in their room at the hotel in 1889 still resides here. The vision of a woman ...

It is said that this motel is haunted, as is evidenced by drastic changes in temperature and a pervasive feeling of dread.

Twin Lakes Inn

Twin lakes, colorado.

This historic inn was formerly a stage stop and a brothel, and is rumoured to be haunted. Apparitions include a disembodied pair of hands, a bordello madam in a pink dress and a cowboy who leans against doorways. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

The Gold Pan

Breckenridge, colorado.

Although this 1870's saloon is now home to a bustling restaurant and bar, much of the paranormal activity reported in this building is confined to the upper floor, where tenants of several rented rooms have reported the spirits of a woman and a miner. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

The Prospector Restaurant

This former boarding house is now an old-fashioned restaurant, and is haunted by a female presence known to staff and diners as 'Sylvia'. She is somewhat hostile towards females, but warmer towards males. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

The Historic Brown Hotel

According to local legend, in around 1900 a lady of the night named Ms. Whitney decided to use the hotel for her business. The owner was not happy with her plan -- he allegedly murdered her. Her ghost is said to remain on the premises, seen often in the women's ...

Fairlamb House Bed and Breakfast

Delta, colorado.

This historic bed and breakfast inn, dating back to the turn of the twentieth century, is allegedly haunted by former residents and a quintet of women in old-fashioned clothing. The latter have been known to appear in the Millard Room during the night, and disappear when they are acknowledged ...

Butch's Cafe

Mike the past owner has been seen there. This place has been investigated numerous times. (Submitted by Cynthia H)

Rehder Building

Steamboat springs, colorado.

The ghost of a woman in period clothing has been seen wandering around the building on the ground floor. Banging noises and ghostly music come out of the attic, and the terrifying apparition of an old floating man has been seen. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

Chief Plaza Theater

This old theatre is allegedly haunted by a troubled poltergeist who plays havoc with staff after closing hours. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

Tread of Pioneers Museum

A shadowy grey apparition has been reported by staff in the building, often accompanied by disembodied footsteps. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

The Schwartz Hotel

Fairplay, colorado.

This 1890s-era hotel building is now said to be privately owned, so please respect the owners' privacy. Folks say that they've seen strange lights and had eerie feelings as they walked past this building, and according to local legend there are at least three ghosts here. A father and son ...

Western State College - Robidoux Hall

Gunnison, colorado.

The third floor of Roubidoux Hall at Western State College has a ghost, that of a man who died of smoke inhalation during a fire several years ago. Students have seen his apparition at the side of their bed at night, and have found the doors locked from the outside, ...

Columbine Victorian Hotel

This hotel was built at the turn of the twentieth century, and served as living quarters for railroad executives. In Room #009, a suicide took place several years ago. Guests have reported hearing a knock on the door, only to find the hallway empty. Other have reportedly heard ghostly ...

Fairplay Valiton Hotel

This hotel is said to be the home of Julia. One report says she killed herself here after losing her baby; another says she committed suicide after turning down a marriage proposal. Julia's Room is said to be one of the most haunted places here. She also has been witnessed ...

Antero Hot Spring Cabins

Nathrop, colorado.

We stayed in the Cottonwood Cabin on my 40th birthday. After I fell asleep in the downstairs bedroom, I felt someone touch my shoulder. My boyfriend had fallen asleep on the couch upstairs so I thought it was him, but when I woke up and looked there was no one ...

Highline Cafe and Saloon - Mountain Muffin

Hartsel, colorado.

Formerly Mountain Muffin Restaurant, the Highline Cafe and Saloon building was an ice cream parlor in the 1900s. Its back room is rumored to have been the setting for a hanging suicide long ago. So the story goes, a man killed another man over a love triangle, and then hanged ...

Poncha Pass

Salida, colorado.

Poncha Pass has a tract of land with a dugout cabin, corral and little gold mine. It's owned by the Boy Scouts and is used for their Rocky Mountain High Adventure base. The dugout is said to be haunted, as moans and murmurs are heard coming from it in the ...

Country Inn Motel

Baggs, wyoming.

Various reports of guests who stay in the small motel tell of a glowing white apparition that appears in their rooms in the early hours of morning. (Submitted by Callum Swift)

» Cemeteries near Glenwood Springs, CO » Find museums in Glenwood Springs, CO

The Glenwood Springs Historical Society is excited to host two upcoming events that offer a fun and unique way to experience the city's history. First, the Ghost Walk is scheduled in October each year. It will take attendees on a spooky tour through the Linwood Cemetery, visiting the gravesites of real-life individuals who made an impact in our community. Second, those who enjoy getting creative can participate in the Gingerbread Contest by creating historic structures from gingerbread. Entries will be submitted for display at the Hotel Colorado. These events are just a small sample of what the Glenwood Springs Historical Society has to offer. We are dedicated to preserving the city's rich history in engaging and exciting ways.

We cannot wait to greet you at the trailhead of Linwood Cemetery to take you on a journey through time you won't forget. This is our signature event where “ghosts” share portrayals of real-life characters buried in Linwood Cemetery. Be sure to join us to meet the spirits that make Glenwood so special.

Ghost Walk is exclusively sponsored by Alpine Bank.

*This is a fundraiser. All ticket sales are final.

Gingerbread Contest

Share your story of days gone by through the art of gingerbread!

If you're a fan of decorating cookies and cakes, the Gingerbread Contest hosted by the Glenwood Springs Historical Society might be up your alley! Participants are asked to create a design based on a past or present historic home, building, landmark, or local attraction. 80% of the design must be edible using materials such as candy, frosting, and of course, gingerbread. Size of entry should fit a 24" X 24" base. Entries will be on display at Hotel Colorado, November 24th, then finalists will move to ANB Bank.

The categories are:

Professional: Open to local restaurants and bakers

Amateur: Individuals, families, or groups who are 13 years or older

Kids: This category is for our younger school age children, ages 5-12. Submissions can be individual, school, classroom, after-school programs, or children's groups (girl scouts, art groups, etc.)

Registration opens August 15, 2023. Deadline for registration is November 20th. Entry fee is $10 per submission. Each category will have two winners: A "Judged" winner and the "People's Choice" winner. The People's Choice winner will be determined by vote. Votes will be given by donating a dollar to the Historical Society into the recipient's numbered box. Multiple votes are allowed. The top three contestants in each categories (those with the most votes) will become the finalists. The finalists in each category will move to ANB Bank, 910 Grand Ave., in downtown Glenwood Springs. Voting for People's Choice winners will continue until Friday, December 1st. The Judged winners will be determined by a panel of judges from the finalists. It is possible that your submission can win both Judged and People's Choice awards!

Awards Ceremony will be held at ANB Bank at 5:00 p.m. on December 1st.

The Gingerbread Contest is sponsored by Hotel Colorado and ANB Bank

Rules & Requirements

We’d like to see creations that evoke special memories of the past. This can be a house/building, a landscape, an object, or a scene that holds a place in your heart. A short tale will accompany your entry. This competition is about connecting through stories of days gone by. So if you’ve never built with gingerbread before please don’t let the challenge deter you. Having fun, creating new traditions, and sharing stories is the goal of this magical community competition. See submission specifics above.

Registration Information

Please fill out the registration form below. Pick one of the three categories:

Professional: open to local restaurants, chefs, and bakers.

Amateur: Individuals, groups, or families who are 13 years of age or older can create a Gingerbread entry.

Kid’s: This category is for our younger children, ages 12 years and younger. Submissions can be from an individual, classroom, after-school program, kid’s art group, Scout troop, etc.

Requirements:

Your design should be a local house or building (past or present), a landmark, or local attraction.

Your Gingerbread creation must be sized to fit a 24’ X 24” base.

80% of the design must be edible.

A short story of your creation MUST accompany your entry. This story should be able to fit on a 5”x 8” index card.

A $10 registration fee must accompany your registration form.

Contest Time and Location:

Registration opens on August 15th and closes on November 20th. The registration form and fee must be submitted for entry.

Deliver your Gingerbread creation to Hotel Colorado, the Roosevelt Room, between 10:00- Noon on November 24th. Use the east entrance. Set-up should be completed by Noon.

The Roosevelt Room will be open for public viewing and voting by 3:00 p.m. on the 24th. People’s Choice voting will occur until 8:00 pm. At 8:15 pm, contestants will discover if their entry is a Finalist.

Finalists’ entries will be moved to ANB Bank on Grand Ave. All Finalist entries will be moved by museum staff to the bank unless you prefer to move it yourself. This will happen between 10 am and Noon on November 25th.

Finalists will be displayed for viewing and additional voting until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 1st. People’s Choice and Judged winners will be announced at an awards Ceremony at 5:00 p.m. December 1st. Prizes will be awarded then.

Two ways to win!! Your creation could win by judge’s decision (Judged Winner), and/or you could win by popular vote as a People’s Choice winner. People’s Choice votes are cast by donating a dollar in the contestant’s collection box next to their Gingerbread entry. $1 = 1 vote and repeated voting is allowed.

The three People’s Choice finalists from each category (Professional, Amateur, and Kid’s) will receive a Finalist’s Ribbon.

All finalists will be moved to ANB Bank.

Voting will continue until 3:00 p.m., December 1st.

Winners will be announced at an Award’s Ceremony held at ANB Bank. The Awards Ceremony will take place at 5:00 p.m. on December 1st.

Winners will receive a ribbon, certificate, and cash award or gift card.

Contact Lacy King at [email protected] or (970) 379-4617 if you have questions or need help with a Gingerbread Recipe

Registration Form

Want a tour.

Interested in bringing a group by for a tour of the museum? Let's set up a date!

Call Us: (970) 945-4448

11 Most Haunted Places in Colorado to See Ghostly Sightings

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A park built on top of a cemetery. Spirits that haunt one of the most historic hotels in Colorado. 

A ghostly apparition that plays slots at a casino even when it’s closed. These are all unexplained reports of the most haunted places in Colorado.

With a history steeped in gold rushes and ghost towns, it’s no wonder that Colorado has some great paranormal activity.

Ghost tours , scary sightings, and haunted stories are reported at numerous locations across the state, both indoors and out!

Here are the most haunted places in Colorado, ranging from century-old mining towns and haunted casinos, to spooky mansions.

1. Cheesman Park in Capitol Hill

In the popular Denver neighborhood of Capitol Hill you’ll find a beautiful city park called Cheesman Park.

It’s a great spot for walking, jogging, picnicking and enjoying the sounds of the city. You can even go on a ghostly walking tour of the area, day or night!

However, the park was originally built on top of a cemetery known as Mount Prospect Graveyard.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

In the late 1800s, when the graveyard was turned into a park not all of the bodies were relocated. (Like they couldn’t think of anywhere else to put the park?!)

And many believe there are still lots of human remains buried beneath the park today.

In fact, Cheesman Park was the inspiration for the movie Poltergeist, turning it into one of the most haunted places in Colorado.

Many of the nearby mansions and houses are said to be haunted with the spirits of people who were buried at the cemetery decades before.

And many people have reported having ghostly experiences or even seeing apparitions when walking the park at night.

This coupled with the fact that the Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of the most haunted places in Denver, makes Cheesman Park a very spooky place.

2. Museum of Colorado Prisons

The Museum of Colorado Prisons in Cañon City has one of the most unique facts about it.

The museum shares a wall (including armed towers) with a prison that has been continuously in operation since even before Colorado was a state. 

This just adds to the genuine feel and authenticity of a museum such as this. 

Many of the exhibits are literal jail cells, dining halls, and archive storage that were used for over the past 140 years. 

Prisoners from many decades ago claimed to hear voices from their cells in the middle of the night. And guests now claim the exact thing from inside the same cells! 

They have even spotted disembodied orbs floating between cells and explicable scents and chills that are said to accompany the supernatural. It’s not uncommon to spot an all-night ghost hunting event on the calendar at Museum of Colorado Prisons. 

Work with experts, learn modern techniques and use the latest equipment in capturing proof of the paranormal.

3. Molly Brown House Museum

The life of Margaret Tobin Brown, aka Molly Brown, is intriguing to say the least. She was one of the few survivors of the Titanic, and became known as the Unsinkable Molly Brown.

She purchased her new home, located on Pennsylvania Avenue, in 1894 and was a long-time resident of Denver.

This Victorian home, now called the Molly Brown House Museum, features architecture, furniture, letters, and books from the early 1900s.

And you can book a tour of the museum and explore all the history and stories that downtown Denver has to offer.

It’s been said that Molly’s spirit can be felt in the house and many people have reported her spirits’ activity here.

Light bulbs often unscrew themselves, furniture sometimes gets rearranged on its own, and the doors to the kitchen are said to open and close at will.

The Molly Brown House is one of the most popular haunted places to visit in Colorado when looking for paranormal activity. 

Book your own tour of the Molly Brown House Museum and check it out for yourself.

Related: The Best Walking Tours in Denver

4. The Stanley Hotel

Located in Estes Park , the Stanley Hotel is more than 100 years old. It’s full of history and strange happenings. 

The hotel is said to be haunted with a history full of ghost stories and creepy events.

In fact, four different spirits are said to occupy the hallways and roam the corridors.

Over the years, guests have said to hear the faint sounds of children’s laughter or mysterious footsteps in the passageways. 

Lights flicker at all hours of the day, and sometimes piano music can be heard coming from the empty ballroom.

Because of its old and spooky feel it made the perfect place for Stephen King’s novel, The Shining .

If you enjoy this sort of thing, you can immerse yourself into the dark history of the Stanley Hotel by booking one of their Spirited Night Tours .

These tours will take visitors on a walk at night through the grounds and darkest areas of the hotel, including an underground tunnel.

5. Colorado Grande Hotel & Casino

The town of Cripple Creek has a murky history of corruption, murder, two-timing and good ol’ fashioned debauchery. 

In fact, many of the town’s casinos are said to be haunted and often have reports of ghosts or strange activities.

These days Cripple Creek is considered a casino haven, and ghostly one at that.

One casino is said to be inhabited by the spirit of a young girl who draws on the walls. Another has bar glasses that fly through the air on their own and crash to the floor.

The building that houses the now Colorado Grande Casino has been standing since 1898. 

The Spirits that live here are said to linger on in the Grande Hotel are mostly benign. 

Lily and Maggie are the two female spirits that supposedly still walk the halls of this historic landmark and most common apparitions to see. 

Also reported within the Colorado Grande Hotel include disembodied singing voices and footsteps dancing to an unheard tune on the 3rd floor ballroom. 

Sights of apparitions using the slots, blue floating orbs and a certain proclivity to see purple balloons have all been reported. 

6. Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum

Speaking of Cripple Creek, the town seems to always be featured or mentioned on some sort of haunted list. 

It has a history of being a gold mining town with a long storied past. 

Not only that but visitors can tour the Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum that details the shadier life of the inhabitants of Cripple Creek.

Visitors who tour the jail can read real police reports and newspaper clippings, and check out the jail cells where prisoners were kept.

But BEWARE, you may hear the faint echoes of footsteps going up and down the stairs, or see the ghosts of past guards or prisoners.

The jail actually operated from 1901 until 1991 when it was closed because it doesn’t have an exercise yard. This is a modern requirement for a fully operating jail in Colorado.

7. Hotel Colorado

In the heart of Glenwood Springs , you’ll find the beautiful and spacious Hotel Colorado.

Historical figures such as Teddy Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and the Unsinkable Molly Brown have all been guests of Hotel Colorado.

Over the decades, this haunted hotel has a reputation for ghost stories and strange happenings.

During the time of World War II, more than 500 wounded soldiers were housed here.

And giant ovens deep in the basement of the hotel were used to cremate those who didn’t survive.

With the horrors that were seen during the war it’s easy to understand how this place could be haunted.

Many people who stay at Hotel Colorado have said they heard strange noises, like a woman wailing, and even saw random objects moving on their own.

Other paranormal activity that’s often reported includes apparitions and ghost sightings.

Today you can take a self-guided tour through the hotel to check out some of the rooms with the original furnishing, clothing, and books from that time period. 

8. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Is there always a correlation between a ghastly murder or other violent act(s) in the past, and the sightings of apparitions or ghosts in the present? 

We think so. And the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is no different. 

From 1903 to 1973, it was the courthouse and administrative building for the entire Pikes Peak region. 

As a courthouse, its walls and columns undoubtedly bore witness to the aftermath of heinous events and travesties from the area. 

But it was in 1959 when a disgruntled custodial employee shot and killed one of his managers over a check dispute. 

Nowadays, the once courthouse has been restored to its former glory. And today it exists today as a museum that hosts an array of exhibits. 

These displays detail the history of the area with events and exhibits being held year round.

Although the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum doesn’t actively offer ghostly tours on their event list, you may still experience creepy moments.

It is said that you still get an uneasy feeling or hear faint echoes of the past near the courtroom or in the same area the previous murder happened. 

9. Brown Palace Hotel

From presidents to royalty and rock stars to sports stars. The Brown Palace Hotel has hosted guests from every walk of life and from every corner of the world.

Completed in 1892, the Brown Palace Hotel was set to be the crown jewel of Denver.

The building was meant for the upper crust of society and completed to reflect the style of Italian Renaissance on a triangular intersection. 

The Brown Palace Hotel set itself apart from all other Denver hotels for its opulence and luxury for socialites. 

Its existence was sustained even through tumultuous events in American history like the Great Depression, Prohibition, and many wars. 

Which means this hotel undoubtedly has some stories to tell, and a few ghosts too. 

Calls from unoccupied rooms or rooms undergoing renovation are said to be the most common spectral occurrence. 

Hearing string instruments and spotting the quartet are said to happen in the ballroom. 

Hearing babies cry, seeing wait staff walk through walls, old train conductors, and children playing in the halls, are all things that have happened in this historic Denver hotel. 

10. Central City Masonic Cemetery

Cemeteries. I mean there isn’t really a better place to find some ghosts. Unless you perhaps paired it with an already haunted town with sullied beginnings. Central City Masonic Cemetery, near the town of Central City and Black Hawk , was once referred to as the “richest square mile on earth”. 

The town existed before gold was found in the area in 1859, and by 1860 the population had swelled to over 10,000 residents. 

The Masonic Cemetery sits above Central City and might be a great place for some sightseeing if it weren’t for the creepy vibe. 

Keep your eyes and ears open for strange sounds and sightings of the past residents that are still said to walk these grounds. 

In April and November, the graveyard is visited by a “Lady in Black”. A mysterious figure that, according to legends, appears to lay flowers on the grave of a certain John Edward Cameron. 

And if the cemetery wasn’t scary enough, Central City is said to be haunted with its own ghosts and specters from the past. 

The town itself is already a hotbed of paranormal activity making it one of the most haunted places in Colorado. 

11. Denver International Airport

If you are seeking out the most haunted places in Colorado, then there might be none better than the Denver International Airport (DIA). 

It’s easy to get off the plane and you’re in a purportedly haunted place supposedly built on an Indian burial ground. 

And I don’t just mean being jinxed or cursed nowadays by the inevitably late flights and seemingly phantasmic lost baggage that seems to plague all airports. 

DIA seems special in not all the right ways. Starting with the iconic statue “Blue Mustang” (or known by locals as “Blucifer”) adorns the entrance as you’re driving in. 

The statue literally killed its creator and sculptor before it was even installed. 

Denver International Airport has been riddled with conspiracy since being built in 1995. 

Secret tunnels, Nazi propaganda, Freemason cornerstone, underground post-apocalypse government headquarters, biological weapons; the wild claims that come out of DIA is endless. So ghosts and haunted areas inside the airport aren’t too far a stretch. Feelings of unease and otherworldly presence is said to be felt in the terminals. Stories of guests taking elevators to only end up in some spooky area of the airport. 

Denver International Airport has many secrets and a haunted past that may neve be fully uncovered.

From prisons to epic ghost tours , these are the most haunted places in Colorado that you can visit in the Pikes Peak Region. 

Professional Writer & Travel Blogger

Carrie Smith Nicholson is one of the co-founders of Hashtag Colorado Life. After living in Texas for her whole life she moved to Colorado 7 years ago. As a travel blogger and entrepreneur for the past 11 years, her writing has been featured on NBC News, HuffPost Live, Glamour Magazine, Inc Magazine and many other media outlets. When she's not writing about new travel locations, she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and trying new foods. You can follow her outdoor adventures on Instagram, @hashtagcoloradolife.

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Denver to Glenwood Springs

256.5 miles: 6 hours, 0 minutes

As you ease out of the Front Range’s foothills, those once distant snow-capped peaks gradually close in, eventually enveloping you within their towering majesty. During this adventure you’ll view stunning mountain panoramas, travel past legendary ski resorts such as Vail, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk, and immerse yourself in soothing mineral pools.

Denver to Vail

Vail to aspen, aspen to glenwood springs.

105.6 miles: 2 hours, 11 minutes

The journey down curvy I-70 allows you to experience Colorado’s mining legacy as you pass tiny towns with old shafts dug into rocky crags. Pan for gold at Idaho Springs’ Phoenix Mine, take a stroll through Georgetown’s historic district and admire restored Victorians, or explore Frisco, another boom town that sprouted gold and silver mines in the late 1800s.

Recommended Stops

98.4 miles: 2 hours, 25 minutes

Internationally revered for its extensive winter sports facilities, Bavarian-style Vail also offers year-round recreation in the surrounding White River National Forest. Your arrival at Leadville, America’s highest city, marks your approach into thin air—the town’s whopping 10,150-foot altitude rewards visitors with dramatic views from its lofty perch atop the Rockies.

52.6 miles: 1 hours, 22 minutes

Playground of the rich and famous, Aspen is celebrated for its legendary après ski parties, elegant shops, world-class people watching and exquisite restaurants. For more laid-back pursuits, relish the restorative powers of Glenwood Springs’ hot mineral springs and vapor caves—water sports of a more vigorous nature occur on the nearby Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers.

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