Hancock is an old mining town located about 5 miles south of Saint Elmo. There’s not much remaining, just a foundation of one old saloon. There are several ruins on the 5 mile drive from St Elmo to Hancock on County Road 295.
History
The town was likely established in 1880, during construction of the Alpine Tunnel. By 1881, there were multiple stores, saloons, restaurants, a wood frame train depot, telegraph office and all types of shacks and cabins.
About 200 people lived in town, mostly miners or railroad workers. It was tough living at 11,027 feet. The town kept on for a few short years and was virtually abandoned in 1910 when the Alpine Tunnel closed.
Getting There
Take Co Rd 162 to Saint Elmo. Just before town, take a left onto Co Rd 295. Follow for 5 miles until you reach Hancock and the trailhead to the Alpine Tunnel. GPS – 38.641009,-106.361904
On the final 5 miles to Hanock, look for ruins of the Mary Murphy Mine and the mining camp of Romley. There’s more to see on the way to Hancock than in Hanock. 4WD is required to take the 1 mile drive up to Mary Murphy Mine.
You can drive nearly up to the Alpine Tunnel from Hancock with a 4×4, otherwise it’s a 2 mile hike in.
Details
Address: Co Rd 295, Chalk Creek Canyon
Nearby Town: Buena Vista
County: Chaffee
Roads: 2WD
Season: May-October
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