Entry No. 89 — the Durango file — filed under: ghost-town

Graysill Mine

Established in 1945 during the post-WWII atomic rush, Graysill Mine was a high-altitude vanadium and uranium operation that once supported hundreds of claims. Active until 1963, the remote site was notorious for its harsh winter conditions and the invisible threat of radioactive radon gas. Today, a few weathered wooden cabins, collapsed structures, and rusted track remnants linger in the San Juan National Forest.

The move: Rent a 4WD vehicle in Durango to navigate the rugged Forest Service Road 578, then enjoy a scenic mountain hike to photograph the decaying wooden cabins and read the historical marker from a safe distance.

📍 Before you go Located on public San Juan National Forest land, the site features a historical marker and can be viewed safely from Forest Service Road 578, but the decaying structures are unstable and the old mine shafts present severe hazards.

• 📍 Graysill Mine
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Graysill Mine, Colorado 81301, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: uncovercolorado.com · ghosttowns.com

last checked: 2026-07-20