3 Old Ruins to Explore in Ouray County

Checkout places to visit in Ouray County

Ouray County

Ouray County is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering something for everyone regardless of their preferred activity. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to the county's slopes, while in the summer months hikers and climbers take to the mountains. There are also ample opportunities for jeeping, fishing, horseback riding, and more.

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Old Ruins to Explore in Ouray County

Camp Bird Mine

The Camp Bird Mine was a gold and silver mine located in Ouray County. It was one of the most productive mines in the San Juans, and at its peak, it employed over 400 workers. The mine operated for over 20 years, until it was finally closed in 1991. During its time, the Camp Bird Mine produced over $50 million worth of gold and silver. Today, the mine is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take a tour of the tunnels and see the equipment that was used to extract the precious metals.

Ridgway Railroad Museum

The Ridgway Railroad Museum is located in the small town of Ridgway, Colorado. The museum is housed in an old train depot, and it features a variety of exhibits on the history of the railroad in the region. Visitors can learn about the construction of the Denver & Rio Grande Railway, which ran through the area in the late 19th century. The museum also has a model train display, as well as a collection of historic photographs and documents.

Yankee Girl Mine

This is a former silver, lead, and zinc mine in Ouray County. The mine operated from 1869 to 1991 and produced silver, lead, and zinc ore. During its operating years, the mine employed hundreds of workers and was an important source of income for the local community. The Yankee Girl Mine is now a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels and see first-hand the equipment used by miners during the heyday of silver mining in Colorado.

Map of Old Ruins to explore in Ouray County