Black Diamond Mines Somerville Staging Area - 8 Miles - Dogs Off-leash

HIKE DESCRIPTION: From the 1860s through the turn of the last century, five coal mining towns thrived in the Black Diamond area. On this hike we’ll explore two of them: Stewartville and Somerville. We’ll begin the hike from the Somersville Townsite staging parking lot stopping to checkout the new Greathouse Visitor’s Center. This route includes some very steep trails. Sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. Brings hearty snacks or a lunch and plenty of water.

We will leave promptly at the start time and should be finished by 1:30 pm. If you run into trouble the morning of the hike, you can try to reach me at[masked], but many staging areas have poor cell service.

HIKE RATING: Moderate, 8 Miles, 1,600 ft elevation gain

HIKING PACE: 2.5 - 3 Mph. The group will wait for stragglers at trail junctions, but please be considerate of others and keep your physical limitations in mind before committing to this hike. It is recommended that you obtain a map at the beginning of the hike in case the group is separated.

ROUTE: Stewartville/ Left onto Ridge / Right onto Stewartville / Right to visit Prospect Tunnel / Left back onto Stewartville / Right onto Miner’s Trail / Left onto Ridge / Merge onto Chaparral up the stairs back to the staging area.

RECOMMENDED PARK MAP: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/black_diamond/default.htm

DOGS ALLOWED? YES! Off-leash

GRAZING ANIMALS: cows

BATHROOMS: at the staging area only

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:

Please use the Google Maps link above to familiarize yourself with the trip. It is good practice to confirm the night before that any app you use takes you to where you expect. Print out the driving directions if you are unfamiliar with the area. Many parks are in areas with poor cell service, so DO NOT rely completely on your smartphone's GPS. Most street addresses provided are approximate.

We look forward to seeing you on the trail!