If you haven’t noticed yet, Colorado has a trail for every preference and skillset. From short and sweet waterfall hikes to butt-busting weekend-long excursions, you will never run out of trails to conquer around the Centennial State! If you are looking for a new trek that is as beautiful as it is historic, this little-known route leads you to some incredible ruins.
Towering high above Telluride is the long-abandoned Tomboy, Colorado; a ghost town remembered only by its dilapidated ruins.
Wikimedia Commons Originally settled as “Savage Basin Camp” in the 1800s, Tomboy was a mecca for gold production and at one time housed more than 2,000 residents.
A stagecoach made the journey to the remote town once daily, carrying passengers and mail from Telluride.
Wikimedia Commons During its prime, Tomboy boasted shops, saloons, and even a YMCA, all of which closed after the mine dried up in 1928.
Today, the ghost town is home to a number of run-down ruins, many of which have to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.
Flickr/Glenn Merritt
The original “social tunnel,” (pictured below) is where lonely miners would meet up with single women from Telluride.
TripAdvisor/relayer
At an elevation of 11,425 feet, Tomboy is one of the highest ghost towns in the country.
Flickr - Arizona Shona
You can access Tomboy by 4x4, bike, or on foot via the historic Imogene Pass and old Tomboy Road.
Flickr - Durango_Dave The road to Tomboy is only open for a few months out of the year due to its high elevation location and unpredictable weather conditions in the snowy seasons.
Be forewarned: Imogene Pass and the road to the ruins are rough, rugged, and quite dangerous unless you are an experienced off-road driver.
Flickr - Adam Barhan Much of it follows a narrow route along sheer cliffs and there are many tight switchbacks. If you want to leave the driving to the pros, there are Jeep/4WD tours offered by Telluride Outside - you can find more information on their website here.
If you tackle the trail on foot, be prepared for a challenging trek.
TripAdvisor/WorldSeeker70
Though only five miles long, there is a 2,650-foot elevation gain and the route is rocky.
Flickr - Arizona Shona
Make sure you are wearing sturdy hiking boots, and pack a jacket and lots of water.
Flickr - Durango_Dave
Despite the difficulty, your hard work definitely pays off. The view from up here is absolutely breathtaking.
Flickr - Scott Ellis When you’re exploring, keep in mind that the abandoned buildings can be dangerous and unstable. Use extra caution when hiking here, especially near the old mines.
Here’s a handy map to help you find your way:
Wikimedia Commons
Originally settled as “Savage Basin Camp” in the 1800s, Tomboy was a mecca for gold production and at one time housed more than 2,000 residents.
During its prime, Tomboy boasted shops, saloons, and even a YMCA, all of which closed after the mine dried up in 1928.
Flickr/Glenn Merritt
TripAdvisor/relayer
Flickr - Arizona Shona
Flickr - Durango_Dave
The road to Tomboy is only open for a few months out of the year due to its high elevation location and unpredictable weather conditions in the snowy seasons.
Flickr - Adam Barhan
Much of it follows a narrow route along sheer cliffs and there are many tight switchbacks. If you want to leave the driving to the pros, there are Jeep/4WD tours offered by Telluride Outside - you can find more information on their website here.
TripAdvisor/WorldSeeker70
Flickr - Scott Ellis
When you’re exploring, keep in mind that the abandoned buildings can be dangerous and unstable. Use extra caution when hiking here, especially near the old mines.
Have you explored the ruins in Tomboy? Share your stories in the comments below and don’t forget to share photos of your epic adventure on our Colorado Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to see your snapshots featured!
Discover even more incredible ruins by checking out These 5 Trails In Colorado Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ancient Ruins.
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