Sweet Home Mine - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Sweet Home Mine is a former gold mine located in Park County, Colorado. Though the mine is now closed, it remains a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The area around the mine is filled with beautiful wildflowers, and the views of the mountains are simply stunning. There are also several trails that wind through the area, allowing visitors to explore the mine and its surroundings at their own pace. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or just a relaxing stroll, Sweet Home Mine is sure to have something for everyone.

The Sweet Home Mine is a gold mine located in Park County, Colorado. The mine was established in 1879 by miner John H. Gregory, who discovered a gold-bearing vein on the property. The vein proved to be quite productive, and over the next several years, a number of other miners began working the claim. In 1881, the mine was purchased by a group of investors, who formed the Sweet Home Mining Company. The company developed a number of shafts and tunnels on the property, and by 1886, the mine was producing over $1 million worth of gold per year. The mine continued to operate until 1942, when it was closed due to World War II. In 1976, the mine was designated as a National Historic Landmark, and today, it is open to the public for tours.

The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. However, even during the winter, the mine is a beautiful place to explore. 

1. Check the weather conditions and dress accordingly. The temperature in the mine can be colder than the temperature outside, so it is important to dress in layers. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. There is a lot of walking involved in touring the mine, so it is important to wear shoes that will not rub or pinch your feet.
2. Bring a flashlight and extra batteries. The mine can be dark, so it is important to have a light source.
3. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. The mine can be hazardous, so it is important to pay attention to your surroundings and follow the guide's instructions.
4. Do not touch anything in the mine. Some of the minerals in the mine can be poisonous, so it is important not to touch them or put them in your mouth.
5. Do not wander off from the group. It is easy to get lost in the mine, so it is important to stay with the group at all times.
6. Listen to the guide's instructions and ask questions if you are unsure about something. The guide knows the mine well and will be able to answer any questions you have about the tour.
7. Be prepared for a strenuous hike. The tour includes a strenuous hike through the mine, so it is important to be in good physical condition before attempting it.
8. Be respectful of the miners' graves. There are many buried in the mine, and it is important to show respect for their final resting place.
9. Don't touch anything. Many of the objects in the mine are fragile, so it is best to just look and not touch.
    

1. It is the oldest and largest mine in the area and it is a silver, lead, and zinc mine that was founded in 1864.
2. The mine has produced over $20 million worth of minerals. It is currently owned by the Park County Historical Society.
3. The mine is also home to a number of historic artifacts, including mining equipment and mineral specimens.
4. The mine is currently owned and operated by Kinross Gold Corporation, a Canadian mining company.
5.  The average temperature at the mine is below freezing, even during the summer months.
6.  The Sweet Home Mine has been featured on several television shows and movies, including National Geographic's "Inside Earth" and Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs."
7. The first major mining boom in Park County occurred because of Sweet Home Mine.
    

For those looking to explore Sweet Home Mine, it is recommended to allow for at least 3 hours. 

To reach the mine, take Highway 285 south from Denver for about an hour. Then, take Highway 24 west for about 30 minutes. The Sweet Home Mine is located just off Highway 24. There is a parking area for cars and RVs just before the turnoff for the mine. 

The entrance fee for the mine is $5 per person. 

The mine is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and the last tour of the day begins at 4 PM. The mine is closed on Sundays.