Did you know that Howardsville, Colorado, once boasted a population of over 1,000 residents during the silver mining boom of the 1870s? Today, this fascinating ghost town nestled at the confluence of Cunningham Creek and the Animas River in the San Juan Mountains stands as a testament to Colorado’s rich mining heritage. While many travelers rush through on their way to larger destinations, those who pause to explore this historic settlement are rewarded with a genuine glimpse into the state’s frontier past and breathtaking alpine scenery that few tourists ever experience.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Howardsville is located approximately 3 km (2 miles) northeast of Silverton in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The ghost town is accessible via County Road 110, a well-maintained gravel road that branches off from Highway 550 (the Million Dollar Highway).

Closest Airports

• Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) – 87 km (54 miles) south, with regular connections to Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas/Fort Worth
• Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) – 105 km (65 miles) north, offering connections to Denver, Dallas, Chicago, and Houston
• Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) – 76 km (47 miles) northwest, a smaller airport with limited commercial service

From Durango, take the scenic Highway 550 north toward Silverton. Just before reaching Silverton, watch for County Road 110, which leads directly to Howardsville. The drive from Durango typically takes about 1.5 hours in good weather conditions.

For a truly memorable journey, consider taking the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Silverton, then arranging local transportation to Howardsville. This historic train ride offers spectacular views of the Animas River canyon that you can’t see from the highway.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Recommended Seasons

Weather in the San Juan Mountains can change rapidly at any time of year. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly, especially in the evenings. Always bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. The high elevation (approximately 2,900 meters/9,500 feet) means stronger sun exposure and potential for altitude sickness for those unaccustomed to high elevations.

Getting Around Locally

Howardsville itself is small enough to explore on foot, but accessing the ghost town and surrounding areas requires appropriate transportation.

Transportation Options

• Personal Vehicle – A standard passenger car can reach Howardsville in good weather conditions as County Road 110 is relatively well-maintained. However, exploring beyond the main ghost town area requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle.
• 4×4 Rentals – Available in Silverton and Ouray, these are ideal for exploring the Alpine Loop and other backcountry roads. Expect to pay around $200-250 per day for a Jeep rental.
• Guided Tours – Several companies in Silverton offer guided 4×4 tours that include Howardsville and other ghost towns. These tours provide historical context and can access areas you might not feel comfortable driving yourself.
• Mountain Biking – The area offers excellent mountain biking opportunities for experienced riders. Bike rentals are available in Silverton.

If you’re staying in Silverton, some local tour operators offer shuttle services to Howardsville and other nearby ghost towns, which can be a convenient option if you don’t have suitable transportation.

Where to Stay

While there are no accommodations in Howardsville itself, nearby Silverton (just 3 km/2 miles away) offers a variety of lodging options that make perfect base camps for exploring the area.

Recommended Accommodations

For a truly unique experience, consider staying at one of the backcountry huts in the area, such as the Opus Hut or Red Mountain Alpine Lodge. These off-grid accommodations offer a genuine mountain experience with stunning views and access to excellent hiking and skiing.

Dining & Local Cuisine

While Howardsville doesn’t have dining establishments, nearby Silverton offers several excellent options featuring hearty mountain fare perfect for refueling after a day of exploration.

Where to Eat

• Handlebars Food & Saloon – Classic Old West saloon atmosphere with walls adorned with mining relics. Known for hearty portions and meat-focused menu.
• Avalanche Brewing Company – Colorful, cozy spot serving craft beers and made-from-scratch pizzas, wraps, and salads.
• Thee Pitts Again – Authentic southern-style barbecue in a casual setting.
• The Coffee Bear – Perfect for grabbing breakfast burritos, pastries, and coffee before heading out to explore.
• Natalia’s 1912 Restaurant – Fine dining in an elegant historic building for a special night out.

Local Specialties

The San Juan Mountain region’s cuisine reflects its mining heritage and high-altitude environment. Look for these local specialties:

• Game meats like elk and bison
• Green chile stews and sauces (Colorado-style)
• Hearty miner’s breakfasts
• Craft beers from local microbreweries
• Fresh trout from mountain streams

Many restaurants in Silverton close during the off-season (November-April), so check opening hours if visiting during these months.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Howardsville’s Historic Sites

Howardsville was established in 1874 and named after Charles Howard, an early prospector. The town once served as the San Juan County seat before Silverton took that honor. Today, several historic structures remain:

• Original Mining Structures – Several well-preserved buildings showcase the town’s mining heritage, including headframes, ore carts, and processing equipment.
• Historic Cemetery – A small cemetery with weathered headstones tells the stories of early settlers and miners.
• Remnants of the Sunnyside Mill – Once one of the largest mills in the area, you can still see foundations and some structures.
• Old Boarding Houses – Several structures that once housed miners still stand, offering a glimpse into daily life during the mining era.

Activities in and Around Howardsville

For history enthusiasts, consider joining a guided tour from Silverton that includes Howardsville and other ghost towns in the area. These tours provide valuable historical context and can access areas that might be difficult to reach on your own.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While Howardsville itself doesn’t host museums or festivals, nearby Silverton offers several cultural attractions that provide context for understanding the region’s rich mining history.

Museums & Cultural Sites

• San Juan County Historical Society Mining Heritage Center – Housed in the restored 1902 San Juan County Jail, this museum features an impressive collection of mining artifacts, tools, and personal items from the region’s mining era.
• Mayflower Gold Mill National Historic Landmark – This well-preserved mill offers self-guided tours that demonstrate how gold ore was processed. The site provides fascinating insights into the technical aspects of mining operations.
• Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour – Located near Silverton, this tour takes you deep into Galena Mountain to see a gold vein and learn about mining techniques.
• Silverton Hillside Cemetery – A historic cemetery that tells the story of the area’s past, including the devastating Spanish flu epidemic that wiped out half the population.

Annual Events & Festivals

The Silverton area hosts several events throughout the year that celebrate its mining heritage and mountain culture:

• Silverton Skijoring (February) – A unique winter spectacle where horses pull skiers at high speeds through an obstacle course on Blair Street.
• Mining Heritage Days (July) – Celebrates the area’s mining history with demonstrations, tours, and educational programs.
• Silverton Fourth of July Celebration – Features a parade, pancake breakfast, fireworks, and more in one of the region’s most beloved community events.
• Hardrockers Holidays (July) – Mining competitions, mucking contests, and other events that showcase traditional mining skills.

Check the Silverton Chamber of Commerce calendar when planning your visit, as many events are seasonal and dates may vary from year to year.

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

The natural setting around Howardsville is nothing short of spectacular, with the ghost town nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains.

Hiking Trails

• Cunningham Gulch Trail – A moderate 6.4 km (4-mile) round-trip hike that follows an old mining road with spectacular views and historic mining ruins.
• Highland Mary Lakes Trail – A challenging but rewarding 12.9 km (8-mile) round-trip hike to a series of beautiful alpine lakes at 3,600 meters (12,000 feet).
• Ice Lake Basin – One of the most spectacular hikes in Colorado, this 11.3 km (7-mile) round-trip trail features turquoise alpine lakes and abundant wildflowers in summer.

Scenic Drives

The area around Howardsville offers some of the most spectacular mountain drives in North America:

• Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway – A 101 km (63-mile) 4WD route that connects Silverton, Lake City, and Ouray, passing through stunning mountain terrain and several ghost towns.
• Million Dollar Highway – The section of Highway 550 between Silverton and Ouray is renowned for its dramatic scenery and hairpin turns.
• Cunningham Gulch Road – A scenic drive that starts near Howardsville and winds up to stunning alpine vistas.

Wildlife Viewing

The mountains around Howardsville are home to diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes open for:

• Mule deer and elk
• Bighorn sheep on rocky slopes
• Marmots and pikas among the rocks
• Golden eagles and hawks soaring overhead
• Black bears (maintain a safe distance and proper food storage)

Early morning and dusk offer the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture these encounters without disturbing the animals.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Mountain Safety

The San Juan Mountains present unique safety challenges due to their rugged terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions:

• Altitude Sickness – Howardsville sits at approximately 2,900 meters (9,500 feet). Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol initially, and ascend gradually if coming from lower elevations.
• Weather Preparedness – Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection, even for short excursions.
• Lightning Safety – Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. If hiking, plan to be below treeline by noon and seek appropriate shelter if storms approach.
• Navigation – Cell service is limited or non-existent in many areas. Bring physical maps and consider a GPS device for backcountry exploration.
• Wildlife – Store food properly and maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Black bears are present in the area.

Preservation Etiquette

Howardsville and other ghost towns are fragile historical sites that require respectful visitation:

• Observe the “Leave No Trace” principles
• Do not remove artifacts or disturb structures
• Stay on established paths to minimize erosion
• Respect private property (some structures in ghost towns may be privately owned)
• Leave gates as you found them (open or closed)

Visitor Comments About Howardsville

Additional Nearby Destinations

While Howardsville makes for a fascinating visit, the surrounding San Juan Mountains region offers numerous other destinations worth exploring:

Practical Travel Tips

Essential Gear

• Layered Clothing – Even in summer, temperatures can vary widely between morning and afternoon, and with changes in elevation.
• Sun Protection – The high elevation means stronger UV exposure. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Proper Footwear – Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are recommended for exploring ghost towns and trails.
• Water and Snacks – Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, as the dry mountain air increases dehydration.
• Camera – The photogenic landscapes and historic structures make a good camera essential.

Practical Information

• Gas Stations – Fill up in Silverton, as there are no services in Howardsville. The next gas stations are in Ouray or Durango.
• Cell Service – Coverage is limited in the mountains. Download maps and information before your trip.
• Drinking Water – Bring all the water you’ll need, as there are no potable water sources in Howardsville.
• Restrooms – No public facilities in Howardsville. Use restrooms in Silverton before your visit.
• Permits – No permits are required to visit Howardsville, but some backcountry activities may require permits from the Forest Service.

Embrace the Spirit of Colorado’s Mining Frontier

Howardsville may be small in size, but it offers an authentic window into Colorado’s rich mining heritage that larger, more commercialized destinations often lack. As you stand among the weathered wooden structures with the majestic San Juan Mountains rising in every direction, you’ll feel a genuine connection to the pioneering spirit that shaped this remarkable corner of the American West.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, photographer, or simply a curious traveler seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Howardsville rewards those who take the time to explore its quiet streets and appreciate its story. As you plan your journey through Colorado’s spectacular San Juan Mountains, be sure to include this hidden gem in your itinerary—it’s these lesser-known treasures that often create the most lasting memories of all.