Haunted Baldpate Inn, Estes Park, Colorado – Legends of America
Perched high on a mountainside at an elevation of 9,000 feet, near the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, lies the Baldpate Inn. This historic lodge has welcomed guests for over a century, and today, it carries with it a reputation for being haunted, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its already rich history.
A Humble Beginning: The Mace Family’s Dream
The story of the Baldpate Inn begins with Gordon and Ethel Mace, a newlywed couple who decided to homestead in the picturesque Estes Park area in 1911. With their pioneering spirit, they built a classic log cabin, a testament to their resourcefulness and love for the land. To supplement their income, they constructed several small tourist cabins, which quickly became a popular choice for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
The success of these initial cabins inspired the Maces to dream bigger. They envisioned a larger lodging facility that could accommodate more guests and provide an even more memorable experience. In 1917, their dream came to fruition with the grand opening of the Baldpate Inn.
A Name Inspired by Mystery: The Key to the Inn’s Charm
The name "Baldpate Inn" was inspired by a fictional inn featured in a popular mystery novel. In the novel, regular guests were given their own keys to the building, symbolizing their sense of belonging and the inn’s welcoming atmosphere. The Maces embraced this tradition, providing keys to their loyal guests as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation.
However, the tradition was disrupted by World War I, when the cost of metal skyrocketed. The Maces could no longer afford to give away keys, but their loyal guests had become accustomed to the gesture. Instead of being disappointed, the guests began to bring their own keys to leave at the inn, each one carrying its own unique story and significance. This marked the beginning of the inn’s famous "Key Room," a collection that has grown to include over 20,000 keys.
The Key Room: A Treasure Trove of History
The Key Room is more than just a collection of keys; it is a living testament to the inn’s history and the countless individuals who have passed through its doors. The room is adorned with keys from all over the world, each one a unique artifact with its own story to tell. Among the collection are keys from Westminster Abbey, Mozart’s wine cellar, the Pentagon, and even Frankenstein’s castle, adding an element of whimsy and intrigue to the room’s already captivating atmosphere.
As visitors step into the Key Room, they are immediately transported to another time, surrounded by the echoes of countless stories and the tangible reminders of the inn’s rich past. The sheer volume of keys is overwhelming, each one a small piece of a larger puzzle that tells the story of the Baldpate Inn and its place in history.
Ethereal Residents: The Ghosts of Baldpate Inn
While the Baldpate Inn is known for its stunning location and rich history, it is perhaps best known for its reputation as a haunted location. According to staff and guests, Ethel and Gordon Mace continue to reside at their beloved inn, their spirits forever bound to the place they built and cherished.
Ethel, in particular, is said to haunt her old room, often spending time in the Key Room, surrounded by the memories of the inn’s past. She also has a penchant for sitting in a wing-backed rocker before a fireplace in a storage room, where she is often seen with her feet up, engrossed in reading the Bible.
Ethel’s mischievous side is also said to be on display, as she is known to spill mixed drinks, much to the dismay of those enjoying a cocktail. On the other hand, Gordon’s pet peeve is smoking. Although the lodge strictly prohibits smoking, guests who dare to light up a cigarette may find their cigarettes smashed or their packs mysteriously disappearing.
The Smith Family: Carrying on the Legacy
In 1986, the Baldpate Inn was purchased by the Smith family, only the second family to own the inn in its long history. The Smiths have embraced the inn’s legacy, continuing to welcome guests in the same warm and hospitable manner as the Maces. The 12-room lodge is open from Memorial Day to mid-October, providing visitors with a chance to experience the inn’s unique charm and stunning surroundings.
The Baldpate Inn is located seven miles south of Estes Park at 4900 South Highway 7, making it easily accessible for those seeking a memorable getaway in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Visiting the Baldpate Inn
If you’re planning a trip to Estes Park, Colorado, a visit to the Baldpate Inn is a must. Whether you’re interested in its history, its stunning location, or its reputation as a haunted location, the Baldpate Inn offers something for everyone.
You can explore the famous Key Room, dine in the inn’s restaurant, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. And who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of Ethel or Gordon, the inn’s resident ghosts.
The Baldpate Inn
PO Box 700
4900 South Highway 7
Estes Park, Colorado 80517
970-586-6151
©Kathy Alexander/Legends of America, updated March 2025.
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