Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine Mammoth Lakes
Explore a preserved gold mine from the 1920s with historic cabins and machinery. Easy hikes offer scenic views and wildlife spotting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear trails, pleasant weather
Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine Mammoth Lakes
Best Time
Clear trails, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a preserved gold mine from the 1920s with historic cabins and machinery. Easy hikes offer scenic views and wildlife spotting.
"A very cool historic site to see near Mammoth Lakes, offering a glimpse into the past."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or shoes are essential for navigating loose rocks and uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Locate the Trail Entrance
The trail can be tricky to find; it's often hidden near the Coldwater Creek campground.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mine Entrance and Structures
Upper Adit
Explore preserved log cabins, old machinery, and the historic mining tunnel entrance.
+1Self-Guided Historical Walk
Around the mining site
A short, easy loop trail offers a glimpse into early 1920s mining life.
Scenic Views and Wildlife
Upper Adit
Enjoy breathtaking alpine views and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine
What to Wear and Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or shoes are essential for navigating loose rocks and uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Locate the Trail Entrance
The trail can be tricky to find; it's often hidden near the Coldwater Creek campground.
Explore the Upper Adit
The views from the mine entrance here are spectacular and worth the climb.
Self-Guided Tour
A self-guided tour highlights the history of this preserved gold mine.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or shoes are essential for navigating loose rocks and uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Locate the Trail Entrance
The trail can be tricky to find; it's often hidden near the Coldwater Creek campground.
Explore the Upper Adit
The views from the mine entrance here are spectacular and worth the climb.
Self-Guided Tour
A self-guided tour highlights the history of this preserved gold mine.
Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for deer and other animals; admire from a safe distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine for its well-preserved historical structures and easy-to-access trails, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's gold rush past. The scenic views from the upper adit and the chance to spot wildlife are also highlights. Some find the trail entrance slightly hard to locate, and caution is advised on loose rocks near the mine.
"Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mone is an amazing and well preserved alpine gold mine located near Mammoth Lakes. It is a short 1/4 mile hike from the parking lot to the mining site/town. There are a few log cabins, old machinery, and above the cabins is an existing mining tunnel. A very cool historic site to see near Mammoth Lakes."
Brendan Kiely
"Please come with your hiking pole and hiking shoes.
Yo will walk and walk in this beautiful place, you could find a wild animals. I was so lucky because I fing a big deer.
If you want to see the mine entrance or the old air compressor you will going up to the hill. Be careful because the rocks are loose.
But when you are at the too, you will feel better and yo can breathe clean air."
X C
"Cool semi-ghost town originally built in the early 1920’s. It’s located at the far end of the Coldwater creek campground. There’s plenty of day parking up there. Several of the old buildings are clustered together on a small half mile loop. Easy hike for kids. It’s cool when the horses come by- feels like going back in time."
Adam Wolven
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mine is located near the Coldwater Creek campground, often accessed via a short hike. Google Maps can sometimes be tricky, so look for signs near the campground. It's a popular spot for those exploring Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra region.
Yes, there is day parking available at the far end of the Coldwater Creek campground, providing access to the mine site.
While you can drive to the general vicinity, the final approach to the mine structures and upper adit involves a short hike.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of the mine are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
From Mammoth Lakes town, head towards the Coldwater Creek campground area. The trail entrance is often found around this campsite.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine site is generally free. It's a historical site open for exploration.
The mine is an outdoor historical site, so it's accessible during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours.
There is no admission fee to visit the Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine.
You can walk up to the (closed and gated) mine entrance, but access inside is restricted for safety.
While there aren't formal guided tours, a self-guided walk allows you to learn about the mine's history.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Exploring the main mining site and cabins typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you explore.
The main trail to the mining site is a short, easy 1/4 mile hike. Exploring the upper adit involves a bit more elevation gain on loose rocks.
You can see preserved log cabins, old mining machinery, and the historic mine tunnel entrance.
Yes, the short loop trail is considered easy and suitable for children, making it a great family activity.
Visitors have reported seeing deer and other local wildlife. Remember to observe from a safe distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The preserved cabins, old machinery, and the dramatic views from the upper adit offer excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The alpine setting and historic structures provide a unique backdrop for landscape and historical photography.
Photography inside the mine tunnel is not recommended or permitted due to safety concerns and the gated entrance.
Morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the old buildings and landscape.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Inyo National Forest or local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For slightly older or more adventurous children, the hike to the Upper Adit offers a bit more of a challenge and spectacular views. It's a great opportunity to teach them about geology and history in a hands-on way. Remember to bring snacks and plenty of water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The surrounding Inyo National Forest provides ample opportunities for longer hikes, but the mine itself is a compact yet rewarding destination. The chance to spot local wildlife and breathe in the crisp mountain air makes it a perfect stop for nature lovers exploring the Eastern Sierra.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Mammoth's Gold Rush Past
+1The self-guided walk is a key feature, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The main loop is an easy stroll, perfect for families, while the path to the Upper Adit provides a more adventurous route with rewarding panoramic views.
Exploring this site feels like stepping back in time. The quiet atmosphere, combined with the rustic buildings and the surrounding natural beauty, creates a unique and memorable visit. It's a chance to appreciate the hard work and resilience of those who shaped the region's past.
+1Navigating the Terrain and Safety
While the main trail is relatively flat and easy, venturing towards the mine entrance or exploring the surrounding hills requires caution. The rocks can be loose, so it's important to watch your step and avoid unstable areas.
Wildlife sightings, such as deer, are common in the area. Visitors are reminded to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding any animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit