Entry No. 97 — the Colorado Springs file — filed under: ruins

American Eagles Mine

Originally situated on Bull Hill at an elevation of 10,750 feet, the American Eagles Mine was the highest underground mine in the Cripple Creek District, operating from 1895 until 1940. Due to modern open-pit mining expansion, its historic 19th-century structures—including a 60-foot wooden headframe and a blacksmith shop—were relocated to the Little Grouse Mountain Trailhead. Today, these preserved relics sit alongside a scenic overlook and the whimsical 'Rita the Rock Planter' troll sculpture.

The move: Hike the scenic Little Grouse Mountain Trail to view the towering wooden headframe and historic blacksmith shop, then take photos with the giant recycled-wood troll sculpture, Rita the Rock Planter.

📍 Before you go The original mine site is closed and off-limits due to active open-pit mining operations, but its historic structures were relocated to a public overlook on the Little Grouse Mountain Trail where they can be safely viewed from the path.

• 📍 Cañon City
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: PR5M+V4, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: westernmininghistory.com · visitcos.com

last checked: 2026-07-20