Historic Pontatoc Mine: A Glimpse into Tucson's Mining Past
Discover Tucson's mining history at the Historic Pontatoc Mine, a serene landmark nestled in the Coronado Foothills offering scenic beauty and tranquility.
The Historic Pontatoc Mine, nestled in the Coronado Foothills Estates neighborhood of Tucson, Arizona, offers a glimpse into the region's mining heritage. Discovered in 1906, the mine was actively worked until 1917, yielding approximately 5,000 tons of copper, silver, gold, and molybdenum ore. The hand-picked ore was notably rich, containing 4% copper, 0.5 ounces per ton of silver, and traces of gold. Today, the site serves as a historical landmark, inviting visitors to explore the remnants of the mine and imagine the bustling activity of the past. Although deep exploration of the mine is not possible, the historical context and tales of early miners evoke the spirit of Arizona's mining boom. The mine's workings included two shafts, reaching depths of 105 and 125 feet, along with a pit and tunnel operations. The surrounding landscape provides a tranquil escape from city life, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography. The juxtaposition of mining relics against the natural beauty of the foothills creates a striking visual experience.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site.
- Respect the historical site by not climbing on the ruins.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as it can be hot during the day.
A brief summary to Historic Pontatoc mine
- 4444 E La Paloma Dr, Tucson, Coronado Foothills Estates, Arizona, 85718, US
Getting There
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Walking
If you're already in the Coronado Foothills Estates neighborhood, walking to the Historic Pontatoc Mine is straightforward. Start near the intersection of E La Paloma Dr and N Craycroft Rd. Head east on E La Paloma Dr for about 0.5 miles; the mine is located at 4444 E La Paloma Dr. Be mindful of your surroundings as you walk.
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Public Transport
To reach the Historic Pontatoc Mine via public transportation, take the Sun Tran bus (Route 9) from downtown Tucson to the intersection of E Broadway Blvd and N Craycroft Rd. Transfer to Route 11 heading northeast towards E Sunrise Dr. Get off at the E Sunrise Dr & N Craycroft Rd stop, then walk north along N Craycroft Rd to E La Paloma Dr. Turn left and walk about 0.3 miles to reach the mine at 4444 E La Paloma Dr. A single Sun Tran bus fare is $1.75.
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Car
From central Tucson, take N Oracle Rd (AZ-77) heading north. Merge onto E Skyline Dr and continue until you reach E La Paloma Dr. Turn left onto E La Paloma Dr. The Historic Pontatoc Mine is located at 4444 E La Paloma Dr. Parking is available on the street near the location. Street parking is free.
