Durango Ghost Mining Circuit

The Durango Ghost Mining Circuit winds through the Sierra Madre Occidental at elevations over 8,000 feet, connecting a dozen abandoned silver mining camps that once fed Mexico’s colonial wealth. Starting from the old mining town of Ojuela and looping through La Zarca, Nombre de Dios, and back via the ghost town of Mapimí, this 180-mile route follows narrow mining roads carved into cliffsides where pack mules once hauled silver ore to Spanish refineries. The highlight is the abandoned Ojuela suspension bridge — a 300-foot span built in 1898 that still hangs over the canyon like a rusty reminder of boom times.

Moderate difficulty with some technical rock sections and steep grades that’ll test your low range. Stock 4WD with skid plates recommended, plus recovery gear for the inevitable stuck situation on loose shale. Best run April through October before snow blocks the high passes. No permits required, but fuel up in Durango because gas stations are scarce. Camping anywhere along the route is legal and you’ll have your pick of ghost towns for atmospheric overnight spots. What you get is a genuine Mexican mining adventure without the tourist crowds.