Is Eureka Gulch open?

Eureka townsite ↔ Sunnyside Mine · 12,200′ · Moderate 4WD. Typically open June 15 to October 15.

Switchbacks climb from the Eureka townsite on CR 2 to the former Sunnyside Mine workings at the site of Lake Emma. Moderate grades and a good introduction to the area's mining history.

Highlights

  • Sunnyside Mine ruins — once among Colorado's richest gold mines
  • Eureka townsite and mill foundations
  • Views down the Animas valley

History & lore

  • The Sunnyside Mine above Eureka was one of Colorado's richest gold producers; in 1978 Lake Emma collapsed into its workings and flooded the mine.

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