Big Horn Mine Trail is a popular 6-km (4-mi) trek that starts near Valyermo, California, in the Mount Baden Powell area of San Bernardino Mountains. It's in about one-hour of drive northeast of Los Angels into the heart of Angeles National Forest. The Big Horn Mine dates back to 1895. The wagon road that was built at that time now serves as the trail. The mine got its name because Charles Tom Vincent, who discovered the mine, was hunting for bighorn sheep. The legend has it that the mine was filled with the gold worth $100,000.
The trailhead for Big Horn Mine Trail is located in the Vincent Gap Parking Area off Highway 2. No permit is required, only a parking pass. The same trailhead serves for several Mt. Baden Powell trails. After going up for about two miles, hikers are rewarded with a beautiful view of the mountains.
Once you get to the mine, climb up the broken wood to its entrance. Steel bars are blocking access to prevent people from getting inside the shaft, which is obviously too dangerous. In winter, the trail is usually covered with snow, so the best time to make this hike is from March through November.
Practical info
When is the most ideal time to visit the Big Horn Mine in Los Angeles?
For those who wish to visit the Big Horn Mine in Los Angeles, it is highly recommended to come anytime between March and November. It is during winter that snowfall is expected and makes traversing the trail challenging and dangerous. It is recommended to wait for the warmer months to enjoy the beautiful sights and the richness of the forested area. Show more
What is the total distance of the Big Horn Mine Trail?
The total distance of the Big Horn Mine Trail is four miles or six kilometers. It starts at the Vincent Gap Parking Area off Highway 2 and ends at the Big Horn Mine. The hike is ideal for beginners who want to enjoy the outdoors while having an easy stroll. Show more
Is it permissible for visitors to access the Big Horn Mine?
Although visitors cannot enter the Big Horn Mine due to safety concerns, they can still take memorable photographs of the entrance, climb over broken wood and steel barriers without risking their lives. Visitors ought to be mindful of their safety and must not cross the steel barrier for their safety. Show more
What is the origin behind the Big Horn Mine?
The Big Horn Mine in Los Angeles was accidentally discovered in 1895 by Charles Tom Vincent, who was hunting for bighorn sheep. The mine is rich in gold, with its name derived from this animal. Currently uninhabited, the Big Horn Mine is now a high traffic hiking destination in Los Angeles because of its beauty and rich history. Show more
What is the distance between Mount Baden Powell area in San Bernardino Mountains and the Big Horn Mine Trail?
The Big Horn Mine Trail is situated in Mount Baden Powell, located around an hour's commute from Los Angeles towards northeast. The Palmdale city is not too far from the trail as well, being approximately nine miles or fifteen kilometers southeast. The Vincent Gap Parking Area, located off Highway 2, serves as the trailhead and can be easily accessed via road. Show more
