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The Empire Mine was the richest hard-rock mine in the State of California producing 5.8 million ounces of gold in its operating history of 106 years (1850-1956).  In 1975 the State purchased the surface property as the Empire Mine State Historic Park. The Park continues to draw thousands of worldwide visitors each year and is noted for its historical tours of the Bourn Cottage, the mineyard and "living history" events.

In addition to the tours noted above, the Park museum has a scale model of the underground workings of the Empire/Star mine complex, a "gold room" which displays ore samples from local mines,an Assay Office, and an extensive mineral collection. A video entitled "Tears from the Sun" depicting various gold mining techniques is shown on a regular basis.

The Empire Mine grounds, which became a showplace in the mining world, included not only the mine buildings and equipment but also the residences of the mine owner, Mr. William Bourn, Jr.,and the superintendent, Mr. George Starr. The grounds included a Clubhouse for entertaining, extensive lawns with fountains, a reflection pool and gardens with a greenhouse.These features are all now incorporated into the Empire Mine State Historic Park.

The Empire Mine State Historic Park has approximately 12 miles of trails within its 845 acres. Trails are posted to accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Dogs on a leash are welcome on all trails. The trails are open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Drinking Fountains, restrooms, and self-guided brochures of the historical features are available at the Empire Mine Visitor Center, located at 10791 East Empire Street.

Daily Park Hours
January - April 10:00 AM. - 5:00 PM.
May - September 3rd 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 PM.
September 4th - December 10:00 AM. - 5:00 p.m.
(Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day)

Entrance fee: $3.00 for adults over 16, $1.00 for children 6 to 16, children under 5 are free.

Park Location: The Park is located in Grass Valley California, the heart of the gold country.

How to get to the Park: The Park is located on Empire Street in Grass Valley.  For visitors coming from Marysville via route 20, route 20 becomes Empire Street as it passes over route 49 (just continue straight on to the Park).

Website: http:// www.empiremine.org