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Empire Mine State Historic Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,089 Google reviews · Running trail in Grass Valley, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Empire Mine State Historic Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
The site of this state's oldest gold mine has miles of trails to hike, bike or explore on horseback.
What runners say about Empire Mine State Historic Park
“Worth every penny would have paid more beautiful gardens and beautiful history so much to do it's like non-stop it's super amazing I would recommend checking it out”
This place is absolutely worth a trip! History buffs, and nature buffs would enjoy stepping back in time. It is one of the oldest gold mines in California , and produced an astonishing amount of gold. The well preserved equipment, offices, and the mine shaft give a glimpse into the Gold Rush era.
Love this place! It's a true historical mine, one of California's gems as far as a state park goes. The walking trails around the outside of the mine area are exceptional. If you are looking for somewhere to find peace, be out with nature, walk your dog or clear your mind, walk the trails.
Loved walking through the owner’s historic home and the beautifully restored gardens — felt like stepping back in time. From the large buildings that housed the machinery powering the mine to the entrance of the shaft itself, it was incredible to see where so much history was forged underground.
This state park offers a fascinating glimpse into gold mining history, with well-preserved buildings, equipment, and a beautiful estate and gardens. We took the free guided tour and found it engaging. We also got the opportunity to see blacksmiths at work, and dilly dally along the peaceful walking trails.
Trail conditions & character
“Worth every penny would have paid more beautiful gardens and beautiful history so much to do it's like non-stop it's super amazing I would recommend checking it out”
“Admission is affordable at around $5, and parking is free.”
“If you are looking for somewhere to find peace, be out with nature, walk your dog or clear your mind, walk the trails.”
Plan your run at Empire Mine State Historic Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websiteparks.ca.gov
- Phone(530) 273-8522
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Tuesday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–5 PM |
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