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Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a neat hiking area because of its mining history. This New Almaden mercury mine operated here for 125 years and now they’ve left behind some mining equipment at the trailhead as a reminder of its history. Both kids and adults will appreciate learning how this operated as the second largest mercury mine in the world. Check out the park’s website for a whole lot of interesting information on the history. From the Hacienda Park Entrance off Almaden Road, hiking up the Mine Hill trail is tough but yields rewarding with views of the valley. Along the way you can also see some remnants of the mining operation. Go as far as you can and then turn around.
Alert: Not stroller-friendly.
Bathrooms
Yes, at the trailhead.
Playground
No
Kid transportation
Walking or child carrier. Too steep for strollers.
Bikes are allowed, but too steep for young children to bike.
Suggested Route
Park at the Hacienda Entrance of Almaden Road. Take the Mine Hill Trail: Go up until you’re satisfied with the views or the kids wear out, then turn around to return the same way.
Difficulty
Difficult – this is steep. Will be tough if you’re carrying a heavy kid.
Parking Situation
Moderate. Not a huge lot, but doesn’t seem terribly crowded.
Entrance Fee
None.
Bonus
Mining equipment and tutorial in the meadow area next to the parking lot. Check it out before you hike! Also, the trail seems popular with horses: exciting for children!
Official Park Website
https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/pages/almadenpark.aspx Trail map: https://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Documents/Almaden%20Quicksilver%20Guide%20Map.pdf
Date Updated
October 2017
