Entry No. 72 — the Fort Collins file — filed under: ruins

The Birch Ruins

Perched on a 75-foot rocky outcropping in the Knoll-Willows Open Space, these stone ruins are all that remain of 'Jacob's Ladder,' a rustic bungalow built in 1904 for Denver Post editor Albert Birch. Designed by local stonemason Carl Piltz, the home was destroyed by a fire in December 1907, leaving behind only its sturdy stone walls and a massive fireplace. Today, a short public trail leads visitors to the site, offering panoramic views of downtown Estes Park and Longs Peak.

The move: Hike the short, scenic 0.4-mile roundtrip trail through the Knoll-Willows Open Space to the ruins, where you can admire the historic stonework and watch the sunset over downtown Estes Park and the Continental Divide.

📍 Before you go The ruins are located within the Knoll-Willows Open Space, a public park managed by the Town of Estes Park and the Estes Park Museum, and are legally accessible via a short public 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 · uponarriving.com

last checked: 2026-07-20