Rawley Mine, Bonanza

Trail Overview

There are lots of options to explore the numerous trails in the area using your onX Offroad App. History buffs will also enjoy the old mine buildings, especially at Rawley Mine, and the history town of Bonanza. This area is closed March 15 to May 15.

Difficulty

Moderate. Most of this route is easy; however, the climb starting at Waypoint 02 is extremely narrow in places and requires low range. If you encounter another vehicle, you may have to back up a considerable distance. Alternate return route has a few moderately rocky spots, but is otherwise easy.

History

Bonanza was a town of 500 people in the early 1880s, with over 100 buildings, including 6 saloons, a drugstore, post office, hardware store, school, town hall, furniture store and 2 hotels. As the silver mines faded, the population dropped to below 100. A second boom occurred in the 1920s with the discovery of new ore at the Rawley Mine. At that time, a cable tram was built to carry ore to a mill in Shirley. Bonanza faded away in the 1930s, and much was destroyed by fire in 1937. A few residents still remain.