Fortuna Mine Trail
Explore a historic gold mine and rugged desert trails, capped by a spectacular bat emergence at dusk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness bats emerge at dusk
Fortuna Mine Trail
Best Time
Witness bats emerge at dusk
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic gold mine and rugged desert trails, capped by a spectacular bat emergence at dusk.
"Fantastic desert scenery and the wide range of mountain colors is down right neato!"
🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters
While 2WD can work, 4x4 or ATV/SXS recommended for rougher sections. Check conditions!
🦇 Bat Watching Tips
Stay after dark for the bat exodus! Great for cookouts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fortuna Mine Entrance
End of the Fortuna Mine Trail
Explore the historic mine entrance, a gateway to a fascinating past and a unique off-road destination.
Desert Scenery
Along the Fortuna Mine Trail
Experience breathtaking desert landscapes with a vibrant palette of mountain colors.
Bat Colony Exit
Fortuna Mine Entrance
Witness thousands of bats emerge from the mine at dusk for a truly unforgettable natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle Access & Trail Conditions
Historical Significance & Bat Watching
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters
While 2WD can work, 4x4 or ATV/SXS recommended for rougher sections. Check conditions!
🦇 Bat Watching Tips
Stay after dark for the bat exodus! Great for cookouts.
⛰️ Scenic Desert Views
Enjoy the colorful mountains and unique desert terrain.
⛏️ Mine History
Learn about the mine's rich gold-bearing history.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Choice Matters
While 2WD can work, 4x4 or ATV/SXS recommended for rougher sections. Check conditions!
🦇 Bat Watching Tips
Stay after dark for the bat exodus! Great for cookouts.
⛰️ Scenic Desert Views
Enjoy the colorful mountains and unique desert terrain.
⛏️ Mine History
Learn about the mine's rich gold-bearing history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Fortuna Mine Trail for its fantastic desert scenery and the unique historical significance of the mine. The opportunity to witness bats emerging at dusk is a highlight for many. While the trail can be rough, the adventure and natural beauty are widely appreciated.
"Went here on a SXS ride with 5 other couples. You need a small 4X4 or ATV/SXS to get into the site as trails are narrow and rough"
Kevin
"4x4 access only. Well worth the trip and the desert adventure is great. Fantastic desert scenery and the wide range of mountain colors is down right neato!"
Chuck “Uncle chuck” Lenz
"4X4 IS NOT REQUIRED. I can’t count the number of times I have driven to the mine and lead 2WD vehicles to it.
It’s a good place for a cookout, if you’re lucky you will see the bats exit shortly after dark.
I don’t understand why some xxxx’s want to destroy everything.
The gold bearing vain was discovered in December 1894. The main shaft is 300 feet deep. Today’s value of the Gold produced is 240 million dollars.
The gold bearing vain was lost at a fault line."
Dan Rasp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fortuna Mine Trail is an off-road route. Access typically requires a 4x4 vehicle, ATV, or SXS due to narrow and rough trail conditions. However, some visitors report successfully reaching the mine with 2WD vehicles, so checking current trail status is advised.
The trail can be challenging with narrow and rough sections. While some have managed with 2WD, a higher clearance vehicle like a 4x4 or an ATV/SXS is generally recommended for a smoother and safer experience.
Many visitors recommend a 4x4, ATV, or SXS for the Fortuna Mine Trail due to its rugged terrain. However, it's not strictly required, and 2WD vehicles have been driven to the mine.
Specific directions can vary depending on your starting point. It's best to use GPS coordinates for the Fortuna Mine and follow off-road trail maps or guides. The trail leads into the side of a mountain.
While some visitors have reported success with 2WD vehicles, it's generally not recommended for a standard car due to the rough and narrow nature of the Fortuna Mine Trail. A higher clearance vehicle is preferable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific tickets or entry fees mentioned for accessing the Fortuna Mine Trail itself. It's an open off-road area.
The Fortuna Mine Trail is an outdoor area and does not have set operating hours. Visitors can typically access it during daylight hours, and staying after dark is popular for bat watching.
Based on available information, there is no explicit entrance fee for the Fortuna Mine Trail or the mine itself. It's often described as a free adventure.
As an outdoor trail, you can generally visit the Fortuna Mine Trail anytime. However, it's advisable to go during daylight hours for safety and to check weather conditions.
While there are no official entry fees, visitors are encouraged to respect the historical site and avoid vandalism. Some Reddit users express concern about people damaging the area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Fortuna Mine Trail, you can explore the historic mine entrance, enjoy scenic desert views with colorful mountains, and potentially witness bats emerging at dusk. It's also a popular spot for off-road adventures and cookouts.
The Fortuna Mine was discovered in December 1894 and is known for its gold-bearing vein, which produced an estimated $240 million in gold. The main shaft is 300 feet deep, and the vein was lost at a fault line.
Yes, the Fortuna Mine Trail offers fantastic opportunities for photography, with its unique desert scenery, colorful mountain vistas, and the historic mine structures.
Absolutely! Many visitors report seeing bats exit the mine shortly after dark, which is a popular and fascinating natural spectacle.
Bring water, snacks, and appropriate gear for off-roading if you're driving. If you plan to stay for bat watching, consider a flashlight and perhaps supplies for a cookout.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at the Fortuna Mine Trail. It's a remote off-road location, so it's best to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, the Fortuna Mine area is a good spot for a cookout. Visitors often bring their own food and enjoy the desert surroundings.
Since it's an off-road destination, all food options are self-catered. Pack plenty of snacks, sandwiches, and drinks for your adventure.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fortuna Mine Trail offers stunning desert landscapes with colorful mountains, the historic mine entrance, and the unique experience of bat watching at dusk.
Late afternoon and dusk are ideal for photography, especially if you want to capture the colorful desert light and the emergence of the bat colony.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in the area before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive desert scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of the mine or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light photography at dusk.
The mine entrance itself is a key focal point. The winding trails and panoramic desert views also provide excellent photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the mine itself might be more for older kids interested in history, the bat watching at dusk is a universally fascinating experience for all ages. It's a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, which can be both educational and thrilling. Consider it a unique desert outing that combines adventure with a touch of natural wonder.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
This trail is perfect for those who love exploring rugged landscapes and experiencing the thrill of navigating less-traveled paths. The scenic desert views along the way add to the overall appeal, making it a destination that combines adventure with natural beauty.
⛏️ History Buffs
Exploring the site allows you to connect with this history firsthand. It’s a chance to appreciate the scale of past mining operations and the geological stories embedded in the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Off-Roading Adventure
Before embarking, it's wise to check recent trail conditions, as they can change with weather. Many travelers find the drive itself to be a significant part of the experience, offering stunning desert scenery with a wide range of mountain colors. This makes the Fortuna Mine Trail a popular choice for those seeking an active and adventurous outing.
This off-road aspect makes it a great destination for groups looking for a shared adventure. Planning your vehicle choice based on the trail's reputation and your comfort level will ensure a more enjoyable trip.
Historical Gold Mine
Interestingly, the gold-bearing vein was eventually lost due to a fault line, adding a layer of mystery to its operational history. Exploring the area allows visitors to connect with this rich past and imagine the efforts of the miners who worked there. The historical significance adds a compelling dimension to the visit beyond just the off-road experience.
Understanding this history enhances the appreciation of the site. It's a reminder of the valuable resources that once fueled economic activity in the area and the geological forces that shaped its landscape.
Unique Wildlife Encounter: Bats
This phenomenon makes staying at the mine into the evening a rewarding choice. It's not just about the drive or the history; it's also about observing nature in action. The sheer number of bats exiting the mine can be quite impressive and offers a fantastic, albeit brief, wildlife photography opportunity.
For those planning to stay for the bat emergence, remember to bring flashlights and be mindful of the darkening conditions. It's a natural event that adds an extraordinary element to the Fortuna Mine Trail experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit