Lost Horse Mine Loop

The trail to Lost Horse Mine starts at the end of Lost Horse Mine Road. Follow an old abandoned mining road two miles to reach the crumbling remains of Lost Horse Mine. Between 1894 and 1942 the mine produced over 10,000 ounces of gold and 16,000 ounces of silver. Today the mine is surrounded by a chain link fence to protect visitors from the dangerous, open mine shafts. Beyond Lost Horse Mine the trail climbs Lost Horse Mountain, where you can enjoy terrific views from the 5,313-foot (1,619-meter) summit. After a short, steep descent you'll pass a stone chimney that marks the remains of Optimist Mine (which never produced any gold). From the Optimist Mine follow a sandy wash back to the parking area.Thanks to guidebook author and photographer, James Kaiser, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about visiting Joshua Tree, check out his Guide to Joshua Tree National Park.