Entry No. 68 — the Fort Collins file — filed under: ghost town

Homestead Meadows Trailhead

This trailhead in Hermit Park Open Space serves as a gateway to the Homestead Meadows National Historic District, a late 19th-century ranching and logging community. Settled under the Homestead Act of 1862, the area was completely abandoned by 1952. Today, hikers can explore the ruins of eight historic homesteads, including stabilized log cabins, barns, outhouses, and rusted agricultural machinery.

The move: Hike the scenic trail from the trailhead through ponderosa pines and aspens to photograph the historic log cabins and enjoy a quiet picnic among the ruins.

📍 Before you go The trailhead and the historic homestead ruins are located on public land within the Roosevelt National Forest and Hermit Park Open Space, which are legally accessible to hikers for a small park entrance fee.

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

Where: Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: uncovercolorado.com · coloradopreservation.org

last checked: 2026-07-20