Great Sierra Mine Historic Site

The Great Sierra Mine Historic Site is an abandoned silver mining complex in the mountains of Tuolumne County with visible remains from 19th-century operations. The grounds contain several stone cabins, storage buildings, and workshops, along with old equipment and foundation remnants that show the layout of the original settlement.

The site was established in 1881 when the Great Sierra Consolidated Silver Mining Company acquired mining claims and built a community at over 11,000 feet elevation. This operation was part of the silver mining boom that swept through the Sierra Nevada during that era.

The stone buildings and tools scattered around tell how miners lived and worked in this remote location during the 1800s. Walking through the structures reveals the routines of workers who built a complete community high in the mountains.

The site has interpretive signs at several locations explaining how the mining operations worked and what each structure was used for. Since the location sits high in the mountains, visitors should prepare for elevation, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions.

The most challenging task in establishing the operation was hauling heavy equipment up to this elevation, which required enormous effort from workers and animals. Using simple methods and sheer strength, they managed to drag machinery and tools over steep mountain slopes, showing the determination needed to work in this remote location.

Location: Tuolumne County

GPS coordinates: 37.92797,-119.26845

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25