Eagle and High Peak Mine
- Admission
- $15 adults, $8 children (ages 5-11), $1 children under 5
- Hours
- Daily 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (weather permitting)
- Duration
- 1 hour
- Parking
- Free on-site parking lot
- Access
- The underground mine tunnels feature narrow, uneven dirt paths and are not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Step back into the 1870s gold rush at this authentic, preserved gold mine nestled in the mountain town of Julian. Guided tours take you deep underground to explore hand-carved tunnels, original tracks, and vintage milling machinery. Surprisingly, you can still see actual gold veins sparkling in the hard rock.
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Tucked into the hillside of the historic mountain town of Julian, the Eagle and High Peak Mine offers a fascinating window into California's 1870s gold rush. This preserved site merges two distinct mining claims, where early prospectors tunneled deep into the mountain in search of quartz veins rich with gold.
Today, visitors can take guided tours through the cool, dim tunnels to see original vintage equipment and learn about the grueling lives of hard-rock miners. Expert guides share stories of the boom era, pointing out the veins of gold still visible in the rock face.
Beyond the underground tour, the experience includes hands-on gold panning, where you can test your skills using traditional methods. The surrounding grounds are scattered with historic machinery and artifacts, making it an engaging step back in time for all ages.
Ratings
museumVisitor Tips
- ◆ Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes, as the mine floor can be uneven and damp.
- ◆ Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the underground tunnels remains cool year-round.
- ◆ Combine your visit with a trip to downtown Julian, famous for its historic architecture and legendary apple pies.
- ◆ Check the daily schedule ahead of time, as tour availability can vary seasonally.
Heads Up
- ◆ The underground tunnels have low ceilings in some areas, requiring taller visitors to duck.
- ◆ Parts of the tour may not be fully wheelchair or stroller accessible due to narrow paths and uneven terrain.
- ◆ The confined spaces underground may not be suitable for those prone to claustrophobia.
Common questions
Do you need a jacket inside the Eagle and High Peak Mine?
Yes, the temperature inside the mine tunnels stays around 58 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
Is gold panning included with the tour?
Yes, gold panning instruction and a hands-on panning session are included with the purchase of a guided tour ticket.
Is the Eagle and High Peak Mine tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the historic mine tunnels are narrow with uneven dirt floors and steps, making them inaccessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How long does the guided mine tour take?
The guided tour of the mine takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes to complete.