Empire Mine State Historic Park, Grass Valley

About Empire Mine State Historic Park

Empire Mine State Historic Park preserves one of California's oldest, deepest, and richest gold mines near Grass Valley. Visitors explore the historic grounds, tour preserved buildings including the owner's home and gardens, and descend into the mine shaft. The park features walking trails open from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are allowed on roads and trails throughout the park and within the visitor center, as well as on the grounds in the historic zone, though dogs cannot enter historic buildings or mine shafts. The historic grounds open daily, with winter hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and summer hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park accepts the Free Fourth Grade Pass and the Historian Passport Day Use Admission Annual Pass. A visit suits anyone interested in California gold rush history and heritage.