Eureka Mine•Death Valley NP

00:00     Title
00:10     Eureka Mine
04:55     Aguereberry Point
07:15     Wildrose Charcoal Kilns
11:25     Fin
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Death Valley National Park actually is the largest federally operated park in the lower 48 states, but most visitors never venture further than the actual Death Valley itself. Many of the mainstream tourists never make it further west than Stovepipe Wells because of time constraints or tour bus limitations, yet there is a whole world of discovery to be found just around the bend. The access point for the old two lane touring route to Wildrose lies just a few miles west of Stovepipe Wells, yet relatively few visitors do this side trip on any given day.

The Panamint Range borders upon the west side of the lower end of Death Valley and a lot of old west history was made in these mountains. Roaming prospectors discovered mineral deposits in this area back in the early days, but the extreme environmental conditions certainly made the extraction process a real challenge. Eventually a few mining operations sprouted up after investment money started to pour in. The profitability was oversold in most cases, so it was just a matter of time before the mining camps were abandoned. Most of the old historic Panamint Range mining sites now remain in an arrested state of decay. Each site offers a unique learning experience and a whole bunch of adventure for the entire family.

Emigrant Canyon Road is the old two lane road to the Wildrose mining district and there are several side roads worth exploring along the way. The dirt roads are fairly smooth in this region, but a high ground clearance 4x4 is always best for the task. For those who just want to experience an old west mining site without committing to a multi day adventure, Aguereberry Point Road is a good choice. The Euereka Mine Site and the old Harrisburg Mining Camp are located along this side road. Aguereberry Point is on the crest of the mountain and it overlooks the entire Badwater Basin area of Death Valley. Doing a complete tour of Aguereberry Point Road will add up to a long half day that is full of exciting things to see and do, so this is the perfect excursion for those who wish to escape from the big crowds.

The old Eureka Mine and Harrisburg mining camp provide hours upon hours of interesting sights to see. The Eureka actually was a fairly profitable gold mine as far as this region goes, but just like with many other ore strikes, bilking investors was part of the game. The main head frame, mine shafts and an ore cart tunnel still remain at this site, while tons of rusty metal scrap is scattered around the grounds. Every few steps reveals a new connection to the past and young visitors will certainly be fascinated by all there is to see. The features of the old Eureka Mine also present some great photo opportunities both in daylight and under the stars at night, so be sure to pack a camera for the venture!