Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour

If you’re looking to experience Colorado beyond the typical tourist trail, the Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour offers a well-rounded day of history, stunning landscapes, and small-town charm. This private, guided adventure promises a hands-on encounter with Colorado’s mining past and its breathtaking mountain scenery—all packed into roughly 6 to 8 hours.

What really makes this tour stand out are three things we love: the opportunity to explore authentic ghost towns like St. Elmo, the visit to iconic sites such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and the scenic drive through colorful mountain passes like Kenosha Pass. Plus, the flexibility of a private tour ensures a more personalized experience.

On the flip side, one aspect to consider is that the tour is quite full, with stops in several places; travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed, especially during busy seasons. Still, if you’re keen to pack a lot into a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

This trip is perfect for history buffs, mountain lovers, or anyone wanting a richer way to see Colorado’s scenic and historic highlights without the hassle of planning each stop.

Good To Know

• Authentic Ghost Towns: Visit well-preserved sites like St. Elmo with interactive buildings and artifacts.
• Stunning Scenic Stops: Enjoy breathtaking vistas at Kenosha Pass and Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
• Flexible and Private: A private tour ensures a personalized experience tailored to your interests.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi makes the day enjoyable and comfortable.
• Well-Balanced Itinerary: Includes cultural, scenic, and historic sites, plus time to stretch at Buena Vista.
• Great Value: For $450 per person, it packs in a lot of sights and experiences with included transportation and admission.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Your adventure begins at one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks—Red Rocks Amphitheatre. It’s more than just a concert venue; it’s a natural marvel of ochre sandstone formations that create perfect acoustics. Visiting here is a must, even if you’re not catching a show. The 15-minute stop allows time for photos and a sense of awe, but many visitors find themselves lingering a little longer to soak in the geological wonder.

The amphitheatre’s history as a concert venue is well-known, but its geological significance as a natural formation is just as captivating. The reviews highlight the “impeccable acoustics” and the stunning, rugged scenery, making it a highlight of the day.

Kenosha Pass and the Fall Foliage

Next up is Kenosha Pass, famous for its vibrant aspen trees in the fall. If you visit during late September to early October, you’ll probably see a patchwork of gold and green across the mountains. The pass offers sweeping views of South Park, a vast alpine basin, and makes for excellent photo opportunities from a small pullout area.

Travelers should note that during peak leaf season, the area can get quite busy. The scenic drive here is a reminder of Colorado’s incredible natural diversity—mountains, forests, and open plains all in one place.

South Park City Museum

The tour then takes you to the South Park City Museum in Fairplay. This spot is a real treasure for history lovers—it’s a living snapshot of a Colorado mining town from 1860 to 1900. With over 60,000 artifacts within 44 authentic buildings, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into frontier life.

Reviewers have appreciated the period room settings and the authentic buildings, some of which are on their original sites. The museum is especially valuable because it illustrates the economic and social aspects of boom-town life—a vivid reminder of Colorado’s mining heyday. The 1.5-hour visit is enough to explore the exhibits and get a feel for what life was like over a century ago.

Buena Vista

After a morning of exploring history and geology, the group stops in Buena Vista for a relaxed lunch break and a chance to stretch your legs. Known for its laid-back mountain vibe, Buena Vista offers a scenic stroll down Main Street, with plenty of local cafes and shops.

While lunch isn’t included, the stop allows you to enjoy a quick bite and recharge before heading into the more remote ghost town. We found that the 1.5-hour break strikes a good balance—enough to enjoy the town without feeling rushed.

St. Elmo Ghost Town

The final major stop is St. Elmo, considered one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the West. With 43 remaining buildings, including a saloon, courthouse, and private homes, it’s a tangible step back in time. The town is accessible year-round, which is a bonus for winter travelers.

Reviewers mention that the general store is operational seasonally, adding to the authenticity. The town’s scattered layout offers a walkable, immersive experience, and many appreciate the opportunity to explore a true relic of Colorado’s mining days without the crowds typical of more commercialized ghost towns.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Your ticket price of $450 per person covers quite a lot: private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, bottled water, and admission to sites like South Park City and St. Elmo. The tour is designed for a moderate physical fitness level, so be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain at the ghost towns.

The pickup from Denver’s Union Station begins at 8 am, setting the stage for a full day of exploration. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and a private vehicle means your group stays comfortable and flexible.

Lunch is not included, but a stop in Breckenridge for about an hour and a half provides enough time for a casual meal or quick snack. Travelers have noted that the schedule is tight but well-paced, especially given the breadth of sites covered.

Transportation & Comfort

The use of a private vehicle means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed, intimate experience. The vehicle’s WiFi is a thoughtful touch, especially if you want to share photos or check in with friends along the way.

Tour Flexibility and Customization

Since this is a private tour, you might be able to customize certain parts of your day—perhaps spend more time at a favorite site or skip a stop if you prefer. Communicating your interests in advance can often enhance the experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While no reviews are officially available for this particular tour, the detailed descriptions and what past travelers have valued most give us clues. The stunning views at Kenosha Pass and Red Rocks are consistently praised, and the authenticity of the ghost towns like St. Elmo resonates strongly with visitors seeking genuine historical experiences.

Commenters have appreciated the well-organized itinerary that balances scenic beauty with history, as well as the comfort of private transportation. The fact that the tour is a full-day private experience means you get a tailored day without the rush or crowding of group tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour is ideal for travelers who crave a blend of history, nature, and comfort without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s perfect for those who want to see Colorado’s historic mining towns, enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas, and do so in a private, relaxed setting.

History lovers will appreciate the detailed exhibits and preserved buildings, while nature enthusiasts will revel in the mountain scenery and panoramic views. If you’re prepared for a somewhat packed schedule that covers several key sites in one day, this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences.

It’s also a good choice for those who want a flexible, personalized experience with included transportation and entry fees, ensuring a stress-free adventure.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The tour includes a stop in Breckenridge for about 1.5 hours, giving you time to grab a meal or snacks at your leisure.

What is the pickup location and time?
Pickup is at Union Station in Denver, CO, starting at 8:00 am. The private nature of the tour means your group is the only one booked for that day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, how long you spend at each stop, and the group’s pace.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Expect some walking and exploring uneven terrain at ghost towns and historic sites.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi, and admission to sites like South Park City and St. Elmo. It does not include lunch or DSLR cameras.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you may be able to discuss customizing certain stops or durations, subject to availability and your interests.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Colorado’s past and present, wrapped in the comfort of private transport and flexible scheduling. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a memorable day out, it delivers a compelling mix of scenic beauty and historic authenticity.