Almaden Quicksilver County Park

Over 4,000 acres of oak-studded hills on the site of the New Almaden mercury mines — once the richest mine in California — with 37+ miles of trails past preserved mining ruins, chimneys, and tunnel entrances. Free, open 8am to sunset, gorgeous in spring wildflower season. Brutally exposed and hot in summer afternoons; car required.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What's the history of the Almaden Quicksilver mines?

New Almaden was North America's richest mercury (quicksilver) mine, operating from the 1840s to the 1970s — its mercury processed much of the Gold Rush's gold. You'll hike past original chimneys, the rotary furnace, capped mine shafts, and the restored English Camp settlement.

Which entrance should I use?

Hacienda (21785 Almaden Rd) is best for mining history and puts you near New Almaden village; Mockingbird Hill is best for gentler grades and equestrians; Wood Road climbs to the Hicks side. Hacienda plus lunch in tiny New Almaden village afterward is the classic day.

What's the best hike in Almaden Quicksilver?

The classic is the Mine Hill-ish loop from the Hacienda entrance up past English Camp and the mining relics — roughly 5-7 miles depending on variations. For something shorter, the New Almaden Trail from Hacienda gives history and views in a couple of hours.

Is Almaden Quicksilver County Park free?

Yes — free entry and free parking at all entrances, open year-round from 8am to sunset. The only suggested cost is a $2 donation at the mining museum.

Are there wildflowers at Almaden Quicksilver?

Spring here is one of the South Bay's best wildflower shows — poppies, lupine, and shooting stars carpet the hills roughly March through May. It's also when the grass is green and the temperatures are civilized. Summer turns everything golden-brown and hot.

Is it safe given the mercury mining history?

For hiking, yes — trails and staging areas are safe, shafts are sealed, and interpretive signs mark the ruins. The one real rule: don't eat fish from the reservoirs downstream (Almaden Reservoir, Guadalupe), which carry legacy mercury advisories.

When is the Almaden Quicksilver mining museum open?

The Casa Grande mining museum in New Almaden village is open Saturdays and Sundays year-round (except Christmas and New Year's Day), with a suggested $2 donation. Docent tours run periodically, including first-Friday tours — check the county parks site.

Can I mountain bike or ride horses at Almaden Quicksilver?

Yes — of the 37+ miles of trails, many are open to bikes and nearly all to horses; some historic footpaths are hiker-only. Trail-use maps at the entrances make it clear. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Nearby in Ask San Jose

• Mount Umunhum SummitPark7.01 km · 88 min walk
• Coyote Valley Open Space PreservePark8.38 km · 105 min walk
• Blossom Hill Farmers MarketMarket9.38 km · 117 min walk
• Martial Cottle ParkPark9.57 km · 120 min walk
• Coyote Creek Trail (Hellyer County Park)Park11.76 km · 147 min walk