Here was one of the most fabulous towns during the golden years of the San Juans. Ore was discovered on the Red Mountain Pass in the late 1870s, but lack of transportation and severe winters delayed the stampede for several years. When the rush did come, there were mining camps up one side of the mountain and down the other. Each camp had its own name and one rivaled the other, which ultimately lead to brawls and bloodshed. In time, it was Red Mountain Town that became King of the Mountain after absorbing a number of smaller camps. The population during the early boom years has been estimated as high as 10,000. Once settled, Red Mountain Town became one of the most colorful and prosperous towns of its day. Eastern and European investors poured millions into the region and took out millions. About the only obstacle in the prosperity of Red Mountain Town were the winters. Only the hardiest stayed the winter. In all, an estimated thirty million dollars in gold, silver, lead, zinc and copper has been taken from the mines. What is left of Red Mountain Town can be seen about a half mile off the highway north of the summit of Red Mountain Pass. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.

Red Mountain Town - July 2000
Todd Underwood

Leaning cabin at Red Mountain Town - July 2000
Todd Underwood

Red Mountain Town - July 2000
Todd Underwood