Chalk Creek Drive: a beautiful road to St. Elmo ghost town

County Road 162 (Chalk Creek Drive) is a very beautiful drive located in Chaffee County, in the U.S. state of Colorado.

County Road 162 (Chalk Creek Drive)

How do I get to St Elmo's Ghost Town?

Located in the heart of the Sawatch Range, the road is 25.42km (15.8 miles) long. It’s a beautiful drive down a forest service road running east-west from U.S. Highway 285, on Nathrop, to St. Elmo, a ghost town. The road is mostly paved and turns to dirt above Alpine.

Is the road to St Elmo's Ghost Town open?

The road is plowed year round and tops out at 3.053m (10,016ft) above the sea level. This scenic drive is one where you will enjoy thorough mountain experience. It’s pretty steep. Starting from U.S. Highway 285, the road is 25.42km (15.8 miles) long. Over this distance the elevation gain is 695 meters. The average gradient is 2.73%, with a 14% of maximum grade.

Is the road to St Elmo's Ghost Town worth it?

St. Elmo is a ghost town. Originally called Forrest City it was founded in 1880. This is a remarkable road trip. It is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the West. Remember to bring your camera. 43 buildings remain: a saloon, courthouse/jail, mercantile, and private homes. The general store of the town is open during the summer, when tourists can rent off-road vehicles or buy items. Some sources claim that St. Elmo boasts the most hauntings and paranormal activity of any ghost town in the state. Make sure you leave enough time to make plenty of stops along the way.

 

 

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