3 Hour E Bike Tour to St. Elmo Ghost Town

If you’re looking for a way to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of history, the 3 Hour E-Bike Tour to St. Elmo Ghost Town might just be your perfect match. Offered by Epic Happy Adventures in Buena Vista, Colorado, this experience promises a scenic ride through the stunning Sawatch Range, culminating in a visit to one of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, plenty of travelers find it delivers a memorable blend of nature, history, and easy-to-manage activity.

What we like most about this outing is how it allows you to effortlessly cover 20 miles of breathtaking scenery without the physical strain often associated with mountain biking. The use of electric bikes makes it accessible to a range of fitness levels, meaning you can enjoy the ride rather than struggle through it. Plus, the opportunity to feed friendly chipmunks and walk through a genuine 1880s mining town adds genuine charm and authenticity.

One thing to consider is that the tour is relatively short—about 3 hours—so if you’re craving a full day packed with adventure, this might be a bit light. Also, since it’s a small group tour (with a maximum of four travelers), it offers a more intimate experience but might feel a bit limited if you prefer larger groups.

This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers seeking a relaxed yet engaging way to see Colorado’s landscapes and history. It fits well for those who want a mix of sightseeing, light physical activity, and memorable wildlife moments without the hassle of advanced cycling skills.

Key Points

• Effortless Exploration: The e-bikes make covering 20 miles of rugged terrain manageable for most fitness levels.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks, hot springs, aspen groves, and mountain vistas.
• Historical Charm: Visit a well-preserved ghost town from the 1880s, with opportunities for walking and exploring.
• Wildlife Encounters: Feed friendly chipmunks, adding a hands-on nature experience.
• Convenient and Compact: The 3-hour tour is a perfect half-day outing, especially for tight schedules.
• Affordable Value: At $119 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience compared to more expensive Colorado activities.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Starting Point in Buena Vista

Your journey begins at 150 South Railroad Street in Buena Vista, a charming town known for its outdoor vibe and proximity to Colorado’s wilderness. Meeting here is straightforward, and the tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, giving you the whole day to enjoy or explore further. The small group size (up to four people) means you’ll likely get personal attention and a relaxed pace.

Cycling Through Chalk Creek Canyon

The main route takes you along Chalk Creek Canyon, a landscape that paints a picture of Colorado at its most inviting. We loved the way the landscape transitions from thick aspen groves to open mountain vistas. The elevation change isn’t specified, but the use of electric bikes ensures you’ll have enough power to enjoy the scenery without exhausting yourself. Expect to pass hot springs—famous for their soothing properties—and to get plenty of opportunities to stop for photos.

Visiting the Historic St. Elmo Ghost Town

After about 10 miles, you’ll arrive at St. Elmo, a ghost town that has been remarkably preserved from its gold-mining days in the 1880s. Walking among the wooden buildings, you’ll feel transported back in time. The town is like a living museum—without the crowds—and perfect for history buffs or those simply curious about Colorado’s mining past.

Travelers who have explored this area say the building preservation is surprisingly good and that it’s “fun to walk through the town and imagine what life was like during the boom days.” Plus, the opportunity to feed the chipmunks adds a delightful touch that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Optional Trail Hikes

While the main focus is the bike ride and town visit, there are nearby trails for those who want to stretch their legs further. Walking along these short trails offers a chance for a deeper look at the area’s nature and scenery.

Mountain Views and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the ride, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks, some of Colorado’s most majestic mountains. These vistas are perfect for snapping photos, especially with the late-morning light illuminating the peaks. The combination of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and vivid skies makes for memorable snapshots.

Wildlife and Nature

One of the tour’s charming features is feeding friendly chipmunks in St. Elmo. Travelers report that these little critters are quite tame and eager to accept snacks, providing a fun, interactive moment in the midst of your outing.

Practical Details and Value

The $119 price point offers a reasonable value, considering the scenic beauty, historical access, and personalized experience. The tour includes all equipment, and since the tour is about 3 hours long, it fits well into a half-day plan. The inclusion of mobile tickets simplifies access, and the tour’s cancellation policy offers flexibility with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance—ideal for unpredictable weather.

The Experience Provider: Epic Happy Adventures

This tour is run by Epic Happy Adventures, a company with a good reputation for outdoor activities in Buena Vista. They emphasize fun and accessible adventures, evidenced by their choice of e-bikes and scenic routes. If you need to get in touch for questions, their contact info is readily available, and they are known to be responsive.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This bike and ghost town combo is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a relaxed, scenic ride rather than a strenuous mountain biking challenge. It’s an excellent choice for history lovers, families with kids, or couples eager to combine activity and sightseeing. Because it’s suitable for various fitness levels thanks to the e-bike support, it’s also a great option for those who might shy away from traditional biking but still want to enjoy Colorado’s wilderness.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, the 3 Hour E-Bike Tour to St. Elmo Ghost Town offers a charming, accessible way to explore Colorado’s beautiful Sawatch Range while stepping back into its mining past. The mix of stunning mountain views, historical sights, and wildlife encounters makes it a noteworthy experience, especially if you’re short on time but craving a meaningful outdoor adventure.

While the tour is somewhat condensed, the quality of scenery and authenticity delivered is impressive. It’s a particularly good pick for those seeking a low-impact, high-value activity that combines nature, history, and a touch of fun. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this trip offers enough highlights to leave you with lasting memories of Colorado’s wild beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with limited cycling experience?
Yes. The use of electric bikes makes the ride manageable for most fitness levels, and no expert cycling skills are needed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all equipment and the guided tour. You’ll also have the chance to explore St. Elmo and feed chipmunks.

How long is the ride?
The total riding time is approximately 3 hours, covering about 20 miles round trip from Buena Vista to St. Elmo.

Are there options for hiking during the tour?
Yes, there are nearby trails that can be added for those wanting to hike and explore further after visiting the ghost town.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. The tour provides bikes and safety gear.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts.