Historic Gold Mines and Tours near Julian, California

Julian, CA lies in the heart of Southern California’s historic gold mining country, where prospectors found and lost fortunes during the gold rush of the 1870s. Established as a mining camp by Drue Bailey in 1870, Julian served as base camp for many gold prospectors at the turn of the century. Today, visitors can tour historic mines in the mountains around Julian..

Eagle and High Peak Mine.

One of Julian, California’s original gold ore mines, Eagle and High Peak Mine is open daily for tours. Explore the historic mine site and take a path through hard-rock tunnels. On your tour, guides recount the area’s early mining days and tell stories about the early residents of Julian, CA.

Smith Ranch.

Experience life during the California Gold Rush on a tour and train ride through the old Smith Ranch mine in Julian, CA. The tour includes a scenic ride on the narrow gauge open-air Smith Ranch & Julian Railroad, which makes for a great day of family fun. Later, visitors can ride in an old mine car and pan for gold.

Julian Mining Company.

Amateur prospectors can try their luck at the Julian Mining Company, where they can pan for gold and gemstones such as quartz and amethyst, work the sluice, make old-fashioned candles, throw tomahawks, and feed the animals. In the summer and fall, visitors can also pick raspberries and pumpkins.