Nevadaville
From Third Largest to Nearly Gone
State: Colorado
County: Gilpin County
Founded: 1859
Abandoned: 1900s
Peak Population: 4,000
In 1860, Nevadaville was Colorado's third-largest city with 4,000 residents. Gold mining fueled explosive growth. Multiple fires and mining decline reduced the population to almost nothing. A handful of residents remain today among historic buildings.
The Gregory Lode
Nevadaville grew alongside Central City and Black Hawk in the Gregory Mining District. The rich gold veins made this one of the most productive areas in early Colorado.
Fire and Decline
Fires devastated the town multiple times. Combined with declining gold production, the population crashed. Today, historic buildings stand alongside a few occupied homes.
Timeline
- 1859 - Founded Gold discovered in the area
- 1860 - Peak Colorado's third-largest city
- 1863 - Fire Major fire destroyed much of town
- 1900s - Decline Most residents departed
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Was Colorado's third-largest city in 1860
- Some original buildings still stand
- Connects to Central City via dirt road
Location
Address: Nevadaville, Colorado
Coordinates: 39.7833, -105.5272