Derry Ranch Ghost town site Colorado
Photos Mike Sinnwell 2011
Placer gold was discovered here in the 1860’s in the river beds. Eventually the dredges came in to dig down to the bedrock to claim the gold. The area was mined using these dredges from the late 1800’s through the 1950’s. Mining operations were interrupted numerous times during that period. This is an easy to get too location with plenty to see. Tailing piles from the dredges are scattered along the creek bed. Dredging was stopped eventually when a land owner would not sell.
Nice hike to the ranch and plenty to see as you walk there. We are in danger of losing this location after January 2011. Plans are in place to close the area off to visitors including the hunting that takes place today.