Things To Do Near Shady Creek
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is the site of California’s largest “hydraulic” mine. Visitors can see huge cliffs carved by mighty streams of water, results of the gold mining technique of washing away entire mountains to find the precious metal. Legal battles between mine owners and downstream farmers ended this method. The park also contains a 7,847 foot bedrock tunnel that served as a drain. The visitor center has exhibits on life in the old mining town of North Bloomfield.
Empire Mine State Park
Empire Mine State Park was the richest hard-rock mine in the State of California producing 5.8 million ounces of gold in its operating history of 106 years (1850-1956). George Roberts, the original discoverer of the gold, soon sold his interest and by 1869 William Bourn Sr. owned controlling interest. The Bourn family maintained control of the mine until 1929 when it was sold to Newmont Mining. It ceased operation in 1956. In 1975 the state purchased the surface property as the Empire Mine State Historic Park. The Park continues to draw thousands of worldwide visitors each year and is noted for its historical tours of the Bourn Cottage, the mineyard and “living history” events.
The Bridgeport Covered Bridge
The Bridgeport Covered Bridge on the south fork of the Yuba River is one of the longest single-span wooden bridges in America measuring in at over 230 feet. The bridge was originally constructed in 1862 and was part of the Virginia Turnpike Company Toll Road that served the northern mines and traffic to and from Virginia City and the Comstock Lode in Nevada.
Outside Inn
If you need a place to stay before or after a Shady Creek Event, we recommend Outside Inn. Not only are the accommodations wonderful, they are also a supporter of Shady Creek Outdoor School. Providing lodging in Nevada City, California, the Outside Inn is a small hotel that sits in a quiet residential neighborhood just two blocks from downtown. The family owned motel features unique themed rooms under tall pines and is just a short walk to bookstores, coffee, shopping, entertainment and restaurants. Nevada City is located in California’s Gold Country and has managed to maintain its charm and history. Enjoy your stay in an outdoor-oriented hotel that’s fresh, affordable and fun.