If you are looking at property in or around Silverton, you have some familiarity with the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. For those that do not, the San Juan mountains lie in the Southwest corner of Colorado in a the sparsely populated region of the 4 Corners. Silverton is located between Durango and Ouray, Colorado on Highway 550, which starts in Albuquerque, NM approximately 4.5hrs south. Silverton lies at the bottom of an ancient volcano, the source of significant mineralization of these mountains and a rich mining history. Because of volcanic origins and later glaciation, the San Juan’s contain contain some of the most beautiful mountains in the world labeled the “Swiss Alps of America”. We are selling some parcels near the top of Molas Pass at around 10,000’. This is where we will build our future home one day and you may too!
Adventure
Silverton, CO has one of the largest networks of OHV recreation trails in the United States, and some of the best known trails, mines and ghost towns. From Ravens Nest, you’ll see the Weminuche Wilderness, the largest Wilderness in Colorado with the Colorado trail passing through, which can be explored on foot. The San Juan mountains are an endless opportunity for OHV, Mountain Biking, Snowmobiling, Skiing, and River rafting (that passes Ravens Nest) on the Upper Animas, or in Durango on the Animas, or any of the other rivers of the 4 corners, of which 4 begin in the San Juan mountains. When the Dolores runs, our own raft is loaded and we are heading to that magical place. The vast wilderness of Southern Utah calls just as strongly for some, and is only a few hours away. Mesa Verde is also a short drive and more parks that I can count, lie with in this extraordinary region of the world.
The Rugged Alaskan Experience That Is & Is Not
Many of us romanticize the Alaskan Wilderness experience. With shows like Life Below 0, the adventure, the stunning scenery, the freedom, the quiet life, the wild life calls out. Unfortunately, that Alaskan dream comes with real costs. 10.00 a gallon gas or milk, isolation from family and the lower 48, lack of roads, lack of communications, sometimes lack of community and human interaction. Silverton provides a haven for those desiring some of the experience, without so much of the more difficult components and is a fantastic compromise. Durango, Colorado is only an hour away and has most anything you will ever need that Silverton 5 minutes away does not. (Albuquerque is 4.5hrs away). Even Moose are common in the San Juan’s, just like Alaska!
Investment
The reality is while growth potential is limited for San Juan county due to being primarily public land, prices are well below other mountain communities and a major expansion at Kendall mountain is being considered Due to current events, real estate statistics indicate that more and more people are looking for properties outside of city limits with more privacy and space more than ever. However, there real estate near and around Silverton is very limited if you are looking to live in the area year round and prices are currently skyrocketing because of the demand. View each of the parcels for sale HERE.
Historical Exploration
Modern history begins just before the Civil War and soon after as discoveries of vast mineral resources are discovered in the San Juan’s. The number of mines, trains, and towns created is staggering, most of which continues to return to the earth. Learning about this amazing past is a never-ending experience here. The Old Hundred mine tour and Mayflower Mill provide exceptional experiences along with the mining museum. 2 places I have been where history is worshiped, the San Juan’s and Southern Utah. How many towns have steam locomotives rolling into the middle of town each day? ( May -October) The oldest Continually operated Narrow Gauge Steam railroad is an amazing story of historical preservation and perseverance. If you love trains, there is no better place to be. What stories would these old walls tell if they could speak?
The Ultimate Small Mountain Life
As a seasoned explorer only 2 places have brought me to tears, Moab, Utah and Silverton, Colorado on the 4th of July. Silverton is a community that is isolated and everyone helps each other. There is a Face Book Group for Silverton and a Separate one, the San Juan Trail Group formed by the lead road machinery operator in the county who motto is “We are All in this together”. Everyone is always volunteering to lend a hand to those in need and to make the community of under 700 the best it can be. There is a spiritual component to living in this place and the Community and businesses play a huge roll.
Healthy & Peaceful Retirement
You have to be kidding me right? Let’s start with the fact that the longest living people in the US reside in counties over 9,000’ in Colorado. This may be attributed to a more active life style as well as more physical effort required at altitude and more radiation exposure. The quiet, stress free environment sure plays a critical role as well.
Are the San Juan’s Right for You?
We strongly suggest you visit Silverton and the San Juan’s, take in the scenery, meet the locals, smell the steam engines coal, hear the whistle calling…absorb all that it is and see if it may be right for you. For me, that occurred 38 years ago.
To us, Silverton is a majestic place that feeds our souls. It may or may not be for you. Consider the following when making a decision if Silverton is right for you;
- If the outdoors and adventure are not your focus.
- If you prefer big city amenities or venues
- Do not want to be close to your neighbors or know them.
- Employment opportunities are limited
- The winters are tough
- You have respiratory health issues.
“Blessed are the curious, for they shall have adventures”
Lovelle Drachman
Raven's Nest Estates 