About
The Colorado Boy Mine sits high on a steep hillside, visible from the Million Dollar Highway far below, but almost no one hikes up to see it close-up.
It features one of only three intact wooden vertical shaft houses left standing from the 1880s silver and gold rush era out of dozens that once stood. This rare survivor is a powerful symbol of the frontier mining life that once filled these remote San Juan peaks.
A short, easy 1.8-mile round-trip walk from Ironton takes you through quiet alpine scenery to this untouched piece of history. The site was stabilized in 2001 and still stands strong after over 140 years.
A visit lets you feel the grit and isolation of the prospectors who once chased their dreams here.
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Know Before You Go
The trail begins at the Ironton Town Site parking lot. There is narrow gravel road that leads south beside the creek, which you will follow until you come to a noticeable wood foot-bridge on the left leading across the creek. There is a trail sign leading towards Colorado Boy Mine which sits on a hill about 130 feet higher in elevation. The trail is well marked and is not heavily trafficked by people. This area and hike are a habitat for many moose, elk and deer so be aware aware of wildlife.
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Published
April 20, 2026
