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Secrets Of Washington’s Carbon River Ghost Towns

Published:

by Lonna Yingling

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Ever wondered about the hidden stories of Washington's Carbon River ghost towns? These forgotten places hold tales of bustling communities that once thrived during the coal mining boom. Nestled in the lush forests near Mount Rainier, these ghost towns offer a unique glimpse into the past. Imagine walking through abandoned buildings, hearing whispers of history in the wind. From Fairfax to Melmont, each town has its own story waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff or just love exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, the Carbon River area promises an adventure like no other. Ready to step back in time and uncover these hidden gems?

Secrets of Washington's Carbon River Ghost Towns

Washington's Carbon River region hides a fascinating history. Once bustling with life, these ghost towns now stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. Let's uncover the secrets of these forgotten places.

Carbonado: The Coal Mining Hub

Carbonado, once a thriving coal mining town, now offers a glimpse into the past. Walking through its streets, you can almost hear the echoes of miners and their families.

  1. Carbonado Cemetery: This cemetery tells stories of the town's early settlers. Many gravestones date back to the 1800s, offering a poignant reminder of the town's history.
  2. Carbonado School: The old school building, though abandoned, still stands. It serves as a testament to the town's commitment to education.
  3. Carbonado Mine No. 7: This mine was one of the most productive in the area. Today, its entrance remains, a silent guardian of the town's industrial past.

Fairfax: The Lumber Town

Fairfax, once a bustling lumber town, now lies in ruins. Its remnants tell tales of a community built on the timber industry.

  1. Fairfax Bridge: This bridge, built in 1921, still stands strong. It offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and the Carbon River below.
  2. Fairfax Townsite: Walking through the old townsite, you can see the foundations of homes and businesses. It's a haunting reminder of the town's former glory.
  3. Fairfax Cemetery: This small cemetery holds the graves of many of the town's residents. It's a peaceful place, perfect for reflecting on the past.

Melmont: The Railroad Town

Melmont, once a key stop on the Northern Pacific Railway, now lies abandoned. Its ruins offer a glimpse into the life of a railroad town.

  1. Melmont Schoolhouse: The remains of the old schoolhouse still stand. It's a popular spot for photographers and history buffs alike.
  2. Melmont Bridge: This bridge once carried trains over the Carbon River. Today, it's a popular hiking destination, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding forest.
  3. Melmont Townsite: The townsite is scattered with remnants of buildings and railroad tracks. It's a fascinating place to explore and imagine what life was like in its heyday.

Monte Cristo: The Mining Town

Monte Cristo, a former mining town, now lies in ruins. Its history is rich with tales of gold and silver mining.

  1. Monte Cristo Townsite: The townsite is filled with remnants of old buildings and mining equipment. It's a great place to explore and learn about the town's mining history.
  2. Monte Cristo Cemetery: This cemetery holds the graves of many of the town's early settlers. It's a peaceful place, perfect for reflecting on the past.
  3. Monte Cristo Railroad: The old railroad tracks still run through the townsite. They offer a glimpse into the town's industrial past.

Lester: The Logging Town

Lester, once a thriving logging town, now lies abandoned. Its remnants tell tales of a community built on the timber industry.

  1. Lester Townsite: Walking through the old townsite, you can see the foundations of homes and businesses. It's a haunting reminder of the town's former glory.
  2. Lester Cemetery: This small cemetery holds the graves of many of the town's residents. It's a peaceful place, perfect for reflecting on the past.
  3. Lester Railroad Depot: The old depot still stands, a testament to the town's importance as a railroad hub. It's a fascinating place to explore and imagine what life was like in its heyday.

Hidden Gems of Washington's Past

Washington's Carbon River ghost towns offer a unique glimpse into the past. Exploring these abandoned sites, you can almost hear the echoes of miners and their families who once called these places home. Melmont, Fairfax, and Manley-Moore are more than just forgotten towns; they are pieces of history waiting to be discovered. Each location has its own story, from the bustling coal mines to the quiet, eerie remnants of buildings long abandoned.

Visiting these ghost towns is like stepping back in time. The trails are accessible, making it a perfect adventure for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Remember to respect the sites and leave no trace, preserving these historical treasures for future explorers. Washington's Carbon River ghost towns are hidden gems that offer a fascinating journey into the past, blending history with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.