Join Trail Ambassador Colt for a hike back in time at the Bennetville mine.

Where: Meet at Junction Campground day use lot (before the bridge). We will be hiking up to the historic Bennetville Mine and townsite, with an optional scenic hike to Fantail Lake after the program.

When: 9am-noon on September 9

What: The Eastern Sierra, known today for its pristine wilderness areas and towering peaks, experienced its first rush of thrill-seekers in the late 1800’s. These explorers weren’t interested in vistas, meadows, and birdsong, they were after something more tangible. The would-be boomtown of Bennetville was one of the most daring mining ventures of its time, and today we can explore the remnants of this testament to human willpower. Join us for this tour of California’s history, ecology, and geology in a beautiful high country setting. We will explore the history of mining, its environmental impacts, and the plants we meet along the trail.

This hike will begin at an elevation of 9,500, and we will gain about 300 feet as we go up to the old mine and townsite. We will travel 2-3 miles round trip, depending on the optional addition to Fantail Lake. Bring lunch and plenty of water!