Last Chance Mine
The 17-mile bachelor historic loop takes visitors through Creede’s unique silver mining district and past two ghost town sites. Virtually all of the Bachelor Loop runs through private land. The Last Chance Mine, perched on a canyon wall high above West Willow Creek, provides an opportunity to get out of the car and explore the area on foot. In its glory days, the Last Chance was one of Creede’s richest silver mines, running almost continuously from 1891 to 1947. Mining ended completely in the early 1960’s. Several of the mine buildings have undergone restoration since 2000, and in addition to prospecting for high elevation subalpine birds and abundant wildlife, rock hounds are allowed to collect specimens for a small fee per pound. A museum also provides a large selection of rock specimens for sale. Proprietor Jack Morris is happy to take visitors on a tour and share the areas abundant history.
Restrictions: This is an old mine that originally had a 1,400 foot inclined shaft and served 13 levels. Shafts have been filled in or marked, but hazards do exist. Hike at your own risk.
County: Mineral
Directions: Located five miles north of Creede on the south loop of the Bachelor Historic Trail. Turn on Bachelor Road across from the Creede ball field, stay on the main road, when you reach the townsite of Bachelor on your left, you will see the 4-mile marker, a small green sign on your right. Continue over the mountain for 1 mile, you will see the 5-mile marker, turn right (east) onto the Last Chance Mine Road.
Habitat: Spruce-fir Forest
Dates of Access: Memorial Day to October snows. Please call for cabin reservations.
Hours: Dawn to dusk, unless staying in the cabins.
Ownership: Private
Admission or Fees: Free to explore museum and site. Fee for rock hounding.
Parking: Yes
Lodging: Accommodations for up to 12 guests in restored cabins where water, wood and bedding are provided. Fee is 'whatever you feel is fair' as owner does not want anyone to miss out on this great experience. Additional cabins are also being built.
Handicapped Access: Limited
Delorme: 78 B2
ROC: 140 C1
Latitude: 37.891874
Longitude: -106.942093
Contact Information
Jack Morris, 719-238-7959