Colorado Springs, known for its stunning natural beauty and military presence, also has a collection of abandoned places that offer a glimpse into the area’s history. From deserted mining towns to forgotten military structures, these locations tell stories of Colorado Springs' industrial, military, and community past. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places in Colorado Springs for urban explorers and history enthusiasts.
1. Gold Camp Road Tunnels
The Gold Camp Road Tunnels are remnants of an old railway system built to transport gold from Cripple Creek to Colorado Springs in the late 1800s. Though the road is now popular with hikers and bikers, some of the tunnels have been abandoned and closed off due to structural instability. These crumbling tunnels, with graffiti-covered walls and eerie darkness, have become the subject of local legends and ghost stories.
2. St. Francis Hospital (Old Building)
The original St. Francis Hospital was built in the late 1800s and served the community for over a century before being replaced by a more modern facility. The old building has been left largely abandoned, with decaying patient rooms, empty hallways, and peeling paint creating a haunting atmosphere. Although sections of the hospital are off-limits, it remains a symbol of Colorado Springs' medical history.
3. Colorado Springs City Auditorium (Abandoned Sections)
The Colorado Springs City Auditorium still hosts events, but some sections of the building, such as storage areas and old backstage rooms, have been left in disrepair. These areas, with their broken furniture, crumbling walls, and dust-covered artifacts, provide a haunting contrast to the auditorium’s otherwise active spaces. The blend of decay and activity makes it a fascinating site for those interested in the city’s cultural past.
4. Ruxton Power Plant
Located near the base of Pikes Peak, the Ruxton Power Plant is an abandoned hydroelectric facility that was once part of Colorado Springs' early power infrastructure. The plant was shut down in the mid-20th century, and the decaying structure has been left to the elements. The rusting equipment, overgrown surroundings, and crumbling walls make it a captivating spot for explorers interested in industrial history.
5. Cripple Creek Ghost Towns
Cripple Creek, located near Colorado Springs, was once a thriving gold mining town. While parts of the town are preserved as a tourist destination, several nearby mining towns and camps have been left abandoned, including Gillett and Victor. These ghost towns feature crumbling cabins, decaying mines, and rusting equipment, offering a haunting glimpse into the boom-and-bust history of Colorado’s gold rush era.
6. Midland Terminal Railroad Roundhouse
The Midland Terminal Railroad Roundhouse was once part of the railway system that connected Colorado Springs to nearby mining towns. The roundhouse was used for storing and repairing trains but has been abandoned for decades. The rusting metal framework, broken windows, and graffiti-covered walls have left the structure in a state of decay, making it a favorite spot for urban explorers fascinated by railroad history.
7. Ivywild School (Old Sections)
Ivywild School was built in 1916 and operated as an elementary school until it closed in 2009. While parts of the school have been repurposed as a brewery and community space, sections of the original building remain abandoned. These areas, with empty classrooms, broken chalkboards, and peeling paint, offer a haunting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era in education.
8. Fort Carson (Old Barracks and Structures)
Fort Carson, a major U.S. Army base near Colorado Springs, still operates today, but several older sections of the base have been abandoned. These include old barracks, training facilities, and storage areas that have been left to decay. The crumbling buildings, rusting equipment, and overgrown grounds create a haunting military landscape, offering a glimpse into the base's historical role.
9. Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings (Abandoned Areas)
While the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwellings are a preserved historical site, certain sections of the surrounding area have been left abandoned. These include old tourist attractions, decaying structures, and unused paths. The cliff dwellings themselves offer a look into the ancient history of the Ancestral Puebloans, while the abandoned sections nearby provide an eerie contrast to the preserved site.
10. Old Colorado Springs Courthouse
The Old Colorado Springs Courthouse was once the center of justice in the city, but after a newer courthouse was built, the old building fell into disuse. The abandoned sections of the courthouse, including courtrooms and holding cells, are now crumbling, with broken furniture, peeling paint, and empty halls adding to the ghostly atmosphere. This decaying symbol of justice offers a haunting look at the city’s legal history.
Conclusion
Colorado Springs’ abandoned places provide a fascinating look into the area’s rich history, from its industrial roots and mining booms to its military and cultural landmarks. These locations offer an eerie but captivating exploration experience. As always, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when visiting these sites, as many are dangerous or off-limits. For those who explore responsibly, Colorado Springs' abandoned places offer an unforgettable journey into its hidden past.
