Animas Forks

About

Animas Forks is a high-elevation hiking destination in San Juan County, Colorado, situated approximately 12 miles northeast of Silverton. The site features the remains of an 1870s silver boom ghost town, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Located at 11,172 feet, it is one of the highest mining camps in North America. The area offers moderate difficulty hikes with a typical duration of about two hours. Parking is available at the trailhead, and pets are permitted on the trails. The location is accessible year-round, though winter conditions often bring snow and ice to the high elevation route. Hikers can access the town via a system of roads known as the Alpine Loop, with some routes requiring four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles to reach trailheads like Cinnamon Pass. The terrain includes historic mining remnants, scenic mountain vistas, and nearby peaks such as Animas Forks Mountain.