Entry No. 225 — the Denver file — filed under: ruins

The Birch Ruins

Perched on a rocky outcropping in the Knoll-Willows Open Space, these stone ruins are all that remain of a bungalow built for Denver Post editor Albert Birch in 1904. The home, originally named 'Jacob's Ladder' due to its steep climb, was destroyed by a devastating fire on a freezing night in December 1907. Today, only the rugged stone walls and a massive fireplace remain, offering a haunting look at early 20th-century mountain living alongside panoramic views of Estes Park.

The move: Take a scenic 0.4-mile loop hike up the Knoll-Willows trail to photograph the historic stone fireplace and enjoy panoramic views of downtown Estes Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

📍 Before you go The ruins are located within the Knoll-Willows Open Space, which is owned by the Town of Estes Park and open to the public via a short, maintained hiking trail.

• 📍 Estes Park
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: 300-396 MacGregor Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: Atlas Obscura · historycolorado.org

last checked: 2026-07-20