Empire Mine Trail Tour Guide
Welcome to the walking trails of Empire Mine State Historic Park. These trails - the Union Hill, the Hardrock, and the Osborn Hill loop – wind through more than 100 years of hardrock mining history, amid the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills.
Over the years many mines were worked on the nearly 800 acres that are now state park land. Today, for the most part, only the foundations of the mine structures remain. But where men left off, nature is taking over - sometimes with quiet dignity, sometimes with breathtaking beauty.
The Union Hill Trails - on the north side of Highway 174 - range in length from one to three miles. They are easy to walk and feature a profusion of trees, shrubs, and, in season, wildflowers.
The Hardrock Trail is an easy well-marked, two-mile walk that circles much of the Empire "outback."
The Osborn Hill Loop trail is a one-mile offshoot of the Hardrock and takes you to several abandoned mine sites. It has steeper terrain and can be physically more demanding than the Hardrock.
Before you start, there are some things you should know:
- The trails are rocky or uneven in spots. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for a more enjoyable walk.
- Drinking water and restroom facilities are not available on the trails.
- Watch out for poison oak, ticks and rattlesnakes.
- All natural and historic features of the park are protected by law; do not disturb or remove anything from the park.
- Dogs are allowed in limited areas of California State Parks. At Empire Mine SHP, dogs are allowed on the trails but must be on leash at all times.
- Please STAY ON MARKED TRAILS, and yield to equestrians. Thanks for your cooperation, and enjoy your walk!
Click the links below for the three Self-Guided Walking Tours:
All photos in the trail information are historic and not representative of what you see today.
Hardrock Trail Self-Guided Tour
Osborn Hill Loop Trail Self-Guided Tour
Union Hill Trails Self-Guided Tour
