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Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park: A Glimpse into California's Hydraulic Mining Past

Explore California's Gold Rush history at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, home to the state's largest hydraulic mine and the ghost town of North Bloomfield.

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Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park preserves California's largest hydraulic gold mine and the ghost town of North Bloomfield. Visitors can explore the massive canyon carved by powerful water jets, wander through historic buildings, and hike scenic trails, stepping back into the Gold Rush era.

A brief summary to Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

Local tips

  • Visit the park during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take a guided tour of North Bloomfield to learn about the town's history and see the restored buildings.
  • Hike the Diggins Loop Trail for an up-close view of the hydraulic mining pit.
  • Check the park's website for information on events, including Humbug Days, which commemorates the park's history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most common way to reach Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is by car. From Nevada City, travel 11 miles north on Highway 49 towards Downieville. Turn right onto Tyler Foote Road and follow the paved road for approximately 15 miles to the park. The road changes names several times, becoming Cruzon Grade Road, Back Bone Road, Derbec Road and finally North Bloomfield Road. This route takes about 50 minutes. Be aware that these are not high-speed roads and contain hairpin curves. Parking is available throughout the park, including at the visitor center and campgrounds. A day-use fee of $14 per vehicle is required. During peak season (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day), the fee may be $10 per vehicle. Note that North Bloomfield Road from Nevada City is not recommended due to rough and unpaved sections.

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Discover more about Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, offers a unique journey into California's Gold Rush history and the environmental consequences of hydraulic mining. Established in 1965, the 3,143-acre park encompasses the site of the largest hydraulic gold mine in the state and the semi-ghost town of North Bloomfield. The park's centerpiece is the immense canyon carved by powerful water jets used to extract gold from ancient riverbeds. This method, known as hydraulic mining, involved washing away entire mountainsides, leaving behind towering cliffs of exposed earth. The resulting canyon stretches over a mile in length and reaches depths of up to 600 feet, a testament to the scale of the operation. Visitors can explore the historic town of North Bloomfield, once a bustling supply center for the mine with a population of around 2,000. Several buildings have been preserved or reconstructed, including a general store, a saloon, a drugstore, and miners' homes, offering a glimpse into life during the Gold Rush era. The park's visitor center features exhibits on mining techniques and pioneer life, further enriching the historical experience. Beyond its historical significance, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park boasts over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes. The Diggins Loop Trail offers close-up views of the mining pit, while the Rim Trail provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing at Blair Lake and explore the shaded Humbug Creek Trail. Malakoff Diggins offers a blend of history and outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for families, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts.

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