Bonanza Mine

Trail Overview

The Bonanza Mine Road leads to the historic Bonanza Mine, offering an engaging off-road journey with diverse terrain. The trail begins wide at the bottom, providing a smooth and easy entry, but transitions to a narrow path as you climb toward the mine. Along the way, you'll encounter off-camber sections and increasingly rocky terrain, requiring careful navigation. The trail's upper section offers a more technical experience, rewarding adventurers with stunning views of the Arizona desert and a sense of mining history. The trail culminates at the impressive Bonanza Mine, where exploration on foot is possible. While the mine area is blocked off for safety with debris and closures, visitors can still enjoy the remnants of its past. Proceed with caution, as open pits, potential shafts, and mining debris may be present. This trail is ideal for off-roaders seeking a mix of challenge, history, and scenic desert landscapes.

Photos of Bonanza Mine

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Difficulty

This is an unmaintained mining road, especially to the North, as you climb the hill toward the mine. The terrain gets rougher as you head up, with bigger rocks, more hazards, and a narrowing trail. There is no cell service in the area, with minimal places to pass and/or turn around as you proceed up the hill. Caution is urged.

History

A small former underground mine located on the NW base of Martin Peak, about 9 road miles from Salome, in the SW Harquahala Mountains, at about 1,800 feet of altitude, on BLM-administered land. Started in 1888; reopened 1906. The mine was sold to Hubbard & Bowers after discovery. They formed the Bonanza Mining Co.Workings of the mine include an inclined shaft to a depth of 182.88 meters. Discovered in 1888 and worked intermittently on a large scale to 1918. Subsequently on a small scale, largely by reworking dumps and tailings, to 1964. Total production data includes production for the Golden Eagle Mine group.Production was $1,600,000 in Au bullion in 3 years (1891-1894)(period values)(includes the Golden Eagle Mine). 158,761 tons of ore averaging about 0.85 oz Au/ton, 0.53 oz Ag/ton, and minor Pb and Cu.

Technical Rating