Entry No. 92 — the Durango file — filed under: ghost town

National Belle Mine

Perched atop a geological outcropping known as 'the Knob' in the Red Mountain Mining District, the National Belle Mine was established in 1883 after miners discovered a massive cavern rich in silver and galena. The mine once overlooked the bustling, rowdy settlement of Red Mountain Town before closing after the silver crash of 1893. Today, visitors can see the mine's crumbling timber remnants, tailings, and the nearby windowless historic town jail.

The move: Take a scenic drive along the unpaved County Road 31 to safely photograph the mine's weathered wooden ruins and the nearby historic Red Mountain Town jail from the roadside.

📍 Before you go The mine is located on private property and contains hazardous, sealed underground workings, but the ruins are clearly visible and can be safely photographed from the public County Road 31.

• 📍 National Bell Mine
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: National Bell Mine, Colorado 81432, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: coloradovibes.com · uncovercolorado.com · westernmininghistory.com

last checked: 2026-07-20