Howbert

Colorado's high-country ghost towns sit at altitudes that would give a flatlander nosebleeds — silver camps killed by an 1893 vote in Washington.

Irving Howbert (April 11, 1846 – December 22, 1934) was a pioneer of the Pikes Peak region, businessman, investor, politician, and philanthropist. He helped William Jackson Palmer establish the municipality of Colorado Springs. As county clerk and recorder, as well as a real estate agent, he sought and attained land for what would become Colorado Springs. Investments in mines and railways fostered the mining industry and transportation of ore. As a young man, Howbert fought in the Sand Creek massacre while serving the 3rd Colorado Cavalry Regiment.

The on-the-ground condition of Howbert is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.

Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.

Here's the honest truth: access to Howbert is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times.

Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.