Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

The black diamonds at this park are not actually jewels but a nickname for coal.  Back in the late 1800s, coal was a main energy source at the time. Being a miner was hard work with long hours and dangerous conditions. After mining lost its popularity, the area became a cattle ranching community.

I visited Black Diamond Mines in September during an open house event.  During this time, the mine permitted free self guided tours and there were volunteers to answer questions and talk about the history of the area.  Before you enter the mine they hand out hard hats and flashlights to wear.  The whole mine walk is about one mile and ends at the Greathouse Visitor Center, which is also underground.  The mine is a lot cooler than outside temperature so I appreciated it as a refuge from the heat.  After the mine tour, I hiked passed yellow hills to Rose Hill Cemetary which is the final resting place for many miners and their family.