20 Acre Gold Mining Claim on the West Mancos River
Discover your own slice of gold-rich paradise with this exceptional 20-acre unpatented mining claim on the stunning West Mancos River in Colorado. Surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and flowing crystal-clear waters, this claim offers not only a proven location for placer gold but also a serene escape into nature.
Mancos Gold 2 is strategically located on both the North and South Forks of the West Mancos. At the site of the historic Goldconda placer mining operation, it has over 1,000 feet of river access.
The claim is only 36 miles to Durango (50 miles from the Durango-La Plata County Airport), and 14 miles to Manco, Colorado.
A Legacy of Gold
The West Mancos River Placers are part of the La Plata Mining District, historically known as the California Mining District. This region saw enthusiastic bursts of activity from the 1870s through the early 1900s. Unlike some of Colorado's mo...
The West Mancos River Placers are part of the La Plata Mining District, historically known as the California Mining District. This region saw enthusiastic bursts of activity from the 1870s through the early 1900s. Unlike some of Colorado's more famous lode gold districts, the West Mancos River area is characterized by placer gold—gold that eroded from bedrock veins over millennia and settled into the river’s gravel bars and floodplains.
Understanding Placer Deposits
Placer deposits form when primary (lode) gold is weathered and eroded from veins in surrounding rocks—often quartz or sulfide-rich formations. Carried by water, wind, and gravity, this gold eventually settles in streambeds and alluvial terraces, particularly in areas where water flow slows down.
In the case of the West Mancos River, the surrounding geology includes igneous and metamorphic formations, some containing quartz veins known to host native gold. As seasonal snowmelt and rainfall swell the river, gold is swept downstream and concentrated in natural traps—behind large boulders, inside river bends, or at the base of waterfalls. Gold found in the West Mancos placers is typically fine-grained and flakes, though nuggets have been found.
Publications Discussing the West Mancos:
The West Mancos is highlighted as a Southwest Colorado Placer area in the Colorado Geological Survey publication, "Gold Panning and Placering in Colorado, How and Where". The Colorado Geological Survey discusses the West Mancos: "La Plata Mountains: Gold-bearing gravels occur in many places here: ... along the West Mancos River from the east side of T. 37 N., R. 12 W. to sec. 36, T. 37 N., R. 13 W. 2)..."
The West Mancos is highlighted as an area favorable for locatable mineral resources (gold). From the U.S. Geological Survey publication, "Mineral Resource Potential and Geology of the San Juan National Forest, Colorado". "The known Au-bearing placers in the Forest are ... the West Fork of the Mancos River... placers downstream from the La Plata mining district..."
…”we panned a nice, big flake from the first sample near the crossing. Most of the rest of the pans showed persistent colors…” From A Falcon Guide, Gold Panning Colorado. Discussing the West Mancos.
The West Mancos River remains one of the more promising places in Colorado where placer panning is still feasible.
Gold Prices Are High—And Still Rising:
From CNBC website (October 7, 2025)…
“Gold price reaches $4,000 an ounce for the first time ever - The precious metal has soared this year as investors seek a safe haven from a weaker dollar and geopolitical and economic uncertainty.”
With the price of gold topping $4,000 per ounce, placer mining is no longer just a hobby—it’s a potentially profitable endeavor. As inflation persists and global instability rattles financial markets, gold continues to shine as a reliable store of value.
Recreation
The West Mancos River area offers a diverse array of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Prime Fishing Opportunities
The West Mancos offers anglers a serene and rewarding fishing experience. It is renowned for its clear waters and abundant trout populations. Anglers can expect to catch brook trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout in these waters.
Exploring the Trails: ATV Adventures Near the West Mancos River
• Aspen Loop Trail. One of the premier ATV trails in the area is the Aspen Loop Trail, a 39-mile circuit that meanders through dense aspen groves and offers breathtaking views of the Mancos River Valley and Mount Hesperus.
• Echo Basin Trail. For those seeking a more secluded ride, the Echo Basin Trail provides access to pristine forests and stunning mountain vistas.
Hiking Trail Highlights
Hiking along the West Mancos River in Colorado offers a serene and diverse outdoor experience.
Big Game and Game Birds
San Juan National Forest is renowned for its big game hunting. Hunters can pursue elk and mule deer. Additionally, the forest supports populations of game birds, including wild turkey, blue and sage grouse, and various waterfowl.
Mountain Biking the West Mancos River Region
The West Mancos River area offers mountain bikers an exhilarating mix of alpine terrain, technical singletrack, and panoramic vistas.
Winter Activities
During the colder months, the area transforms into a winter playground. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing within Mancos State Park. The park serves as a staging area for snowmobiling on the nearby West Mancos Trailhead, offering access to hundreds of miles of trails in the San Juan National Forest.
Nearby Attractions
The river's proximity to cultural and historical sites adds to its appeal. Visitors can explore Mesa Verde National Park, known for its ancient cliff dwellings, as well as other attractions like Hovenweep National Monument and the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument.
Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, tranquility by the water, or a glimpse into the region's rich history, the West Mancos River area in Colorado offers a comprehensive outdoor experience for all seasons
BLM Serial Number: CO106389760
Elevation: 9,165 feet (at Goldconda)
Acres: 20
Claim Type: Unpatented Placer Claim
County: Montezuma County
Mining District: La Plata
Commodities: Gold
Parcel Number: 5365-231-00-003
Tax Area: 62041 - DISTRICT 62041
Legal Land Description: W1/2NE1/4NE1/4, Sec 23, T37N, R12W
Access: Forest Service roads. Closed to vehicles over 50 inches wide within 1.1 miles to the claim.
GPS:
• NW: 37.459219, -108.146601
• NE: 37.459224, -108.144327
• SE: 37.455536, -108.144459
• SW: 37.455532, -108.146732
Own Your Piece of the Mountains – Without Breaking the Bank - An Affordable Alternative to Expensive Mountain Land
Buying land in the mountains has become nearly impossible for most families. Prices have skyrocketed into the hundreds of thousands – even for small parcels. But there’s a smarter way to enjoy the beauty and freedom of mountain ownership: mining claims.
What Is a Mining Claim?
A mining claim is a parcel of federal land where an individual or company has the exclusive right to explore for and extract valuable minerals under the Mining Law of 1872.
When you own a mining claim, you hold a real property interest—transferable, sellable, and inheritable. You also gain the exclusive right to prospect for gold and other minerals on that land.
But beyond mining rights, claims are also used for camping, fishing, hiking, and recreation, making them a practical substitute for expensive mountain land.
For a fraction of the cost of traditional real estate, a mining claim gives you exclusive rights to some of the most scenic, historic, and gold-bearing ground in the West.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is owning a mining claim the same as owning land?
No – a mining claim is a federally recognized right to the minerals and use of the claim for prospecting and activities necessary for that purpose – including camping. You don’t own the surface estate, but you do own the exclusive rights to mine and prospect on your claim.
Can I build a cabin?
Temporary camping structures, RVs, and tents are allowed. Permanent structures require BLM or Forest Service approval (the claim is not suitable for building a cabin or home).
Do I have to mine?
Not at all. Many owners purchase claims mainly for recreation – camping, fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
How much does it cost to maintain a claim?
Annual BLM maintenance fees are typically $200 – far less than property taxes on comparable mountain real estate. If you own less than 10 claims, you qualify for a small miner’s waiver, which reduces the cost to $15/year per claim.
Gold Prices Are High—And Still Rising
With the price of gold regularly topping $4,000 per ounce, placer mining is no longer just a hobby—it’s a potentially profitable endeavor. As inflation persists and global instability rattles financial markets, gold continues to shine as a reliable store of value.
That means:
• Your gold finds are worth more than ever.
• A productive claim becomes a valuable investment.
• Demand for gold-rich properties is growing, making claims a resalable asset.
Start Your Adventure Today
Owning a mining claim is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. It’s your affordable doorway into the mountains, combining recreation, history, and the excitement of striking gold.
Camp, explore, and prospect—all at a cost that makes sense
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