Ever dreamed of wandering through a real Colorado ghost town, where history whispers from weathered buildings? You’re not alone—St. Elmo is one of the state’s most sought-after hidden gems, but finding your way there isn’t always straightforward.
Whether you’re planning a scenic drive or spontaneous detour, clear directions can make all the difference. In this article, you’ll find step-by-step guidance, travel tips, and insights to ensure your adventure to St. Elmo is unforgettable and hassle-free.
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How to Get to St. Elmo Ghost Town: Step-by-Step Directions & Travel Guide
St. Elmo, nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado, stands as one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the American West. Exploring the remnants of its gold rush past, feeding the famous chipmunks, and wandering historic wooden sidewalks is a true adventure. If you’ve ever wondered how to get to St. Elmo Ghost Town, this guide will give you clear, practical directions, helpful travel tips, and everything you need to prepare for your memorable visit.
Where Exactly Is St. Elmo Ghost Town?
St. Elmo is located in central Colorado within Chaffee County, about 20 miles southwest of Buena Vista and just west of the small community of Nathrop. Tucked along Chalk Creek and surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and forest, St. Elmo sits at an elevation of around 10,000 feet.
Despite its remote feel, St. Elmo is surprisingly easy to reach by car, making it one of the most accessible ghost towns in Colorado.
Step-By-Step Directions to St. Elmo
The most common starting point is Buena Vista, but you can easily adapt these directions if you’re coming from Denver, Colorado Springs, or elsewhere in the state.
1. From Buena Vista or Nathrop
- Start on US Highway 285.
- Head south (from Buena Vista) or north (from Salida) toward Nathrop.
- In Nathrop, turn west onto County Road 162, also called Chalk Creek Drive.
2. Driving Up Chalk Creek Drive (County Road 162)
- Continue west on County Road 162.
- You’ll pass Mount Princeton Hot Springs and enjoy scenic views of the Chalk Cliffs.
- Stay on this road for about 15 miles. Watch for signs to St. Elmo. The road follows Chalk Creek the entire way, and you’re surrounded by aspen groves and pine forests.
3. Arriving at St. Elmo
- The road narrows as you approach. Speed limits drop as you near the town.
- Parking is available at the entrance or in designated areas along the main street.
- That’s it — you have arrived at the preserved St. Elmo Ghost Town!
Additional Tips:
- From Denver: Take US Highway 285 south toward Nathrop, then follow the same route as above.
- From Colorado Springs: Travel west on US Highway 24 to Johnson Village, then south on US Highway 285.
Points of Interest and Highlights Along the Route
A road trip to St. Elmo is filled with natural beauty and unique stops. Here are some highlights:
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs: Relax in the famous thermal waters along your way.
- Chalk Cliffs: Marvel at this striking white cliff formation beside Chalk Creek Drive.
- Chalk Lake: A tranquil alpine lake and a great picnic spot just off County Road 162.
- Scenic Forest Drives: In autumn, the aspen tree foliage is breathtaking.
- Local Wildlife: Watch for deer, marmots, and the friendliest chipmunks near St. Elmo.
Driving Conditions and Seasonal Considerations
St. Elmo can be accessed by most cars during the warmer months. In winter, weather and snow can make the road difficult, and some stretches may be impassable.
Best Times to Visit
- Late Spring through Early Fall: Roads are clear, and ghost town activities are available.
- Winter: Check road conditions in advance; snow and ice may close certain access points.
Road Conditions
- The main route is a well-maintained, paved county road for most of the journey.
- After Mount Princeton, the road becomes gravel closer to St. Elmo but remains smooth and passable for standard vehicles.
- No four-wheel drive is required unless you plan to continue on old mining roads beyond St. Elmo.
Benefits of Visiting St. Elmo by Car
Driving to St. Elmo brings convenience and opens up opportunities to explore at your own pace.
Key Advantages
- Accessibility: Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers.
- Photography: Freedom to stop at scenic overlooks.
- Comfort: Easy to carry snacks, water, or supplies in your vehicle.
Challenges to Keep in Mind
Like any mountain trip, there are a few challenges worth noting:
- No fuel stations in St. Elmo. Fill up in Nathrop or Buena Vista.
- Limited phone service. GPS can be unreliable in remote areas, so print or download directions.
- Weather transitions. Sudden storms may affect mountain roads.
- Basic amenities. Food and restrooms are limited; plan ahead.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Make your St. Elmo ghost town adventure easy and enjoyable with these tips:
- Start with a full tank of gas and bring some bottled water and snacks.
- Dress in layers. The high elevation often makes temperatures cooler, even in summer.
- Bring cash. Some shops in and near St. Elmo (when open) may not accept cards.
- Arrive early in peak summer months. Parking can fill quickly.
- Respect private property. Some buildings are privately owned and not open to the public.
- Watch for wildlife. St. Elmo is famous for its friendly chipmunks! Bring sunflower seeds to feed them, if allowed.
Visiting St. Elmo: What to Expect
Upon arrival, you’ll find wooden storefronts, rustic cabins, a historic general store, and authentic 1800s mining buildings. The town is car-free down its main street, preserving its peaceful atmosphere.
Activities Include:
- Strolling and Photographing vintage buildings and mining structures.
- Feeding Chipmunks at the designated area.
- Browsing the seasonal General Store for cold drinks, snacks, and souvenirs (check opening months).
- Picnicking by Chalk Creek or at nearby Chalk Lake.
- Exploring Local Trails. Hike or mountain bike into the nearby San Isabel National Forest.
Cost Tips for Travelers
A trip to St. Elmo is a wonderful low-budget adventure, with no admission fee required.
Saving Money
- Pack food and enjoy a picnic lunch.
- Combine activities with a visit to local hot springs or lakes to make the most of your drive.
- Plan a group trip to share fuel and refreshment costs.
- Skip souvenirs for a truly free outing (unless you find something unique in the General Store!).
Best Practices for Visiting Ghost Towns
To ensure your visit is respectful and safe:
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and minimize your impact.
- Do not remove artifacts: Leave historic items undisturbed for others to enjoy.
- Supervise kids closely, especially near old structures and wildlife.
- Check opening times for shops or seasonal attractions in advance.
Concluding Summary
St. Elmo Ghost Town is a treasure in Colorado’s heartland — simple to reach, awe-inspiring to visit, and full of unique history you won’t soon forget. Getting there is as easy as following Chalk Creek Drive from Nathrop, with remarkable scenery and possible hot springs detours along the way.
With a little preparation, you can enjoy a fun, affordable, and memorable day amid the ghostly echoes of Colorado’s mining era. Whether you’re a history buff, photographer, or looking for a family-friendly outing, St. Elmo’s doors are wide open for exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can any car make the drive to St. Elmo Ghost Town?
Yes, most vehicles can reach St. Elmo in warm weather months. The main access road is paved and well-maintained until close to town, where it becomes a graded gravel road suitable for regular cars. Four-wheel drive is not necessary unless venturing past St. Elmo on rougher mountain tracks.
How far is St. Elmo from Denver or Colorado Springs?
St. Elmo is about 130 miles from Denver (roughly a 2.5-hour drive) and about 110 miles from Colorado Springs (around 2-hour drive), depending on traffic and start location. Plan extra time for mountain driving and photo stops along the way.
Is there a cost or admission fee to visit St. Elmo?
No, visiting the town itself is free. However, bring cash for purchases at the General Store (seasonal) and for feeding the chipmunks if you want to buy seeds on-site.
What is the best time of year to visit St. Elmo?
The best months are June through September, when roads are clear, shops are more likely to be open, and weather conditions are favorable. In autumn, fall foliage adds spectacular color to the drive and town itself.
Are there places to eat or stay in St. Elmo?
St. Elmo itself is very limited for food and lodging. Pack a picnic or eat in Buena Vista or Nathrop before heading up. Some rustic lodges, cabins, and campgrounds can be found nearby; reserve in advance during peak travel season.
Now that you know the way, get ready to step back in time and experience one of Colorado’s most charming and accessible pieces of Wild West history!