Discover Silver Lake Basin: Colorado’s Hidden High-Altitude Ghost Town Gem
Experience the Adventure with Peak Overland
If you’re into ghost towns and western mining history we have got the trip for you! Nestled at 12,250 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains lies Silver Lake Basin — a secluded gem where history and adventure converge. Once a bustling hub during the 1890s, this remote basin now offers overlanders and hikers a glimpse into the past, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
The Journey Begins: Arrastra Gulch Road
Your adventure starts in Silverton, Colorado. From there take County Road 2 southwest for about 1 mile and make a right on to County Road 52, known as Arrastra Gulch Road, which leads you through a scenic 2.6-mile drive to the historic Mayflower Mine site. This route is best navigated with a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, like those available from Peak Overland. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of tram towers and mining structures, setting the stage for the history that awaits (4x4explore.com).
Hiking to Silver Lake Basin
From the Mayflower Mine, a challenging 1.2-mile trail ascends approximately 1,050 feet to Silver Lake Basin. The hike is strenuous, featuring steep, loose terrain and a notable section requiring a climb up a rock wall aided by an old steel cable (14ers.com). However, the effort rewards you with panoramic views of the basin, dotted with the ruins of the Iowa, Royal Tiger, and Silver Lake mines — silent testaments to a bygone era.
Camping with Peak Overland
While there are no established campgrounds along Arrastra Gulch Road, the area offers dispersed camping opportunities. Setting up camp near the trailhead allows for an early start on the hike and a chance to immerse yourself in the serene mountain environment. With a Peak Overland rig, you’re equipped for comfort and convenience, making your high-altitude adventure seamless.
A Glimpse into History
Silver Lake Basin was once a thriving mining community, with operations extracting gold and silver from the rugged terrain. The remnants of mills, tramways, and cabins tell stories of ambition and resilience. For a deeper dive into the area’s rich history, explore this detailed chronicle: Silver Lake Basin: A Mining Chronicle.
Visual Journey
To visualize the terrain and the remnants of the mining era, check out our drone footage capturing the ascent from Arrastra Gulch to Silver Lake Basin: