Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour

Discover Colorado’s Historic Ghost Towns and Scenic Mountains

Imagine spending a full day exploring Colorado’s rugged past and breathtaking landscapes—all in a private, comfortable vehicle with personalized attention. The Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour offers just that, taking you from the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre to historic mining towns like St. Elmo and South Park City. Priced at $450 per person, this experience typically lasts 6 to 8 hours, making it an ideal way to gain a deeper insight into Colorado’s frontier history while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines authentic, tactile experiences—touching artifacts, walking through preserved ghost towns—with some of Colorado’s most scenic viewpoints. Plus, the smooth, private transportation makes for a relaxing day without the hassle of navigating busy roads or crowded buses. We also appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, which means your group can enjoy a more personalized pace.

One thing to keep in mind is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan accordingly—there’s a stop in Buena Vista for about 1.5 hours to stretch your legs and grab a bite. For travelers seeking a meaningful, scenic, and history-rich day trip with a focus on authenticity, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Historic Sites: Touch and explore artifacts from Colorado’s mining past.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy stunning views from Kenosha Pass and the striking red rocks of the amphitheatre.
• Private, Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi offers a relaxed and personalized experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops in Buena Vista for lunch and free time, plus a private tour tailored to your group.
• Ideal for History Buffs and Scenic Lovers: Perfect for those wanting a mix of cultural insight and natural beauty.
• Good Value for the Experience: Includes admission to South Park City and St. Elmo, plus bottled water.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Your day begins at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a natural marvel and a National Historic Landmark. The amphitheater, carved out of vibrant ochre sandstone, is renowned not just for its stunning setting but for its exceptional acoustics. Standing on the stage or in the audience, you’ll immediately understand why performers and visitors alike find this place so captivating. We loved the way the natural formations amplify sound and how the landscape itself feels alive and historic. While admission is free, the experience of standing on that stage and gazing up at the towering rocks is priceless.

Kenosha Pass and South Park Views

Next, you’ll stop at Kenosha Pass, famous for its sweeping views of South Park and its colorful autumn foliage if you visit in late September or early October. This spot is perfect for snapping pictures and soaking in the mountain vistas. However, during peak leaf season, the trailhead can get busy, so patience is key. The small pullout provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the rugged landscape.

Step Back in Time at South Park City Museum

The highlight for many is a visit to South Park City, an authentic reconstructed mining town in Fairplay. Here, you’ll walk among 44 original and relocated buildings filled with over 60,000 artifacts representing life from 1860 to 1900. It’s a rare chance to see close-up how miners, tradespeople, and families lived during Colorado’s boom years. The buildings, including a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and saloon, are carefully preserved and arranged to give a real sense of frontier life. One reviewer mentioned that the site “accurately represents a mining town of that era,” which makes it a valuable educational stop.

Free Time in Buena Vista

After enjoying history, the tour pauses in Buena Vista for about an hour and a half. This charming mountain town is known for its relaxed vibe and stunning surroundings, nestled between the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River. Here, you’ll have time to grab lunch, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the mountain air. It’s a restful break and a chance for some personal exploration.

Visiting St. Elmo Ghost Town

The final highlight is St. Elmo, one of the most intact ghost towns in Colorado. With 43 remaining buildings, including a saloon, courthouse, and mercantile, this town offers a tangible sense of frontier life. It’s accessible year-round, making it a great destination even in winter. We loved how the town’s well-preserved architecture and working General Store (seasonal) make it feel alive and real, not just a relic. One reviewer noted that it’s “accessible and well-preserved,” which is rare among ghost towns.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience balances scenic beauty and cultural history in a way that feels genuine and immersive. Unlike larger bus tours, a private vehicle means your group can spend more time at each stop and ask questions. The inclusion of admission to key sites, bottled water, and WiFi adds to the comfort and convenience.

It’s especially suited for history lovers, scenic admirers, and those who appreciate authentic, tactile experiences. The tour’s pace is moderate, with plenty of time to explore and take photos, but it’s not overly rushed. For travelers eager to connect with Colorado’s past and enjoy some of its most beautiful mountain landscapes, this tour offers excellent value.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $450 per person might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the private transportation, admissions, bottled water, and personalized experience, it’s a fair deal—particularly for those wanting a more intimate look at Colorado’s frontier towns. The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure you’ll remember.

The pickup at Union Station in Denver ensures easy access to start your trip, and the air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi keeps everyone comfortable. Since the tour operates on a private basis, your group gets the flexibility to enjoy the stops at your own pace.

A quick note: since lunch isn’t included, bringing snacks or planning to eat in Buena Vista is a good idea. Also, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level as some walking and exploring are involved, particularly in the ghost towns and historic sites.

The Sum Up

For anyone craving an authentic glimpse into Colorado’s frontier days combined with some of the state’s most stunning mountain scenery, this Ghost Town & Scenic Mountain Tour hits the mark. The intimate setting and carefully curated stops make it ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. The chance to walk through well-preserved ghost towns, touch artifacts, and stand in awe at Red Rocks Amphitheatre creates a memorable experience that’s both educational and visually rewarding.

While the price may seem steep, the value lies in the personalized attention, the quality of sites visited, and the comfort of private transport. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a meaningful way to explore Colorado’s rugged past and majestic landscapes in one unforgettable day.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop in Buena Vista where you can find options and stretch your legs.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, making it a full-day experience.

Are the stops flexible?
Since it’s a private tour, your group can enjoy a slightly more relaxed pace and spend more or less time at each site within the scheduled stops.

Does the tour provide transportation?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, all included in the price.

Are admission fees included?
Admission to South Park City and St. Elmo ghost town are included; Red Rocks is free.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as some walking and exploration are involved.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and some snacks or extra water for the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In essence, if you’re eager to see Colorado’s historic ghost towns and enjoy spectacular mountain views, this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated, authentic experience that balances history, scenery, and comfort—well worth the investment for a day of discovery.