Whispers. Sirens. Clanking chains. If you’re looking for a Halloween scare, a visit to the abandoned Horton Mine in central Nevada needs to be on your road trip list.
Although not in operation for decades, this mine was once part of a thriving mining town where gold, silver, ore, and other natural resources were mined out of the mountains. But now, it might be one of the creepiest places in Nevada.
Let’s learn more!
Where Is the Abandoned Horton Mine?
You’ll find the abandoned Horton Mine in central Nevada off Highway 376 south of Austin at the edge of Lander County. Bunker Hill mountain peak is just north of the mine, and the Toiyabe Range Peak is just south.
It’s quite remote and only accessible by traveling along Highway 376 to Kingston Canyon Road. Turn right just before the Kingston Campground. The abandoned Horton Mine is 900 feet beneath the mountain.
History of the Horton Mine
In 1864, William Horton founded the Horton Mine when he discovered ore. For 75 years, miners worked in the area that included the massive Victorine Mine. During the 19th Century, mining was a major industry in the United States.
The Horton Mine operated as a transport shaft from the Victorine Mine on top of the mountain. Ore was dropped into the borehole, traveled along a shute, and was dumped onto tram cars that carried it out.
Finally, in 1931, the mine closed down. Today, the area is part of the Toiyabe National Forest, and the Horton Mine is the site of paranormal activity and unexplainable events. Numerous videographers and visitors claim to have witnessed supernatural activity here.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re daring enough to consider entering the Horton Mine, you’ll want to check out the spooky Snoqualmie Tunnel in Washington.
Do Spirits Haunt the Abandoned Horton Mine?
This area of Nevada was once a bustling hubbub. But now it seems that ghosts haunt this ghost town. In addition, ghost hunters seek to capture the spirits and paranormal activity of the abandoned Horton Mine.
YouTubers have documented the eerie nature of the mine. Thus, enthusiasts and intrigued travelers venture here frequently to see the haunted place for themselves.
One explorer documented his visits (videos above and below), and The Science Channel actually used his footage for an episode of “Strange Evidence.”
The entrance to the mine itself is creepy. Once you get inside, it gets even stranger. In his first video, Frank walks through the mine, noticing the dangling chains and dripping water. But his journey comes to a stop when chains begin to move without prompting.
On a return visit a year later, Frank makes it to the end of the mine. On this venture, Frank hears voices and sounds of machinery. They seem to eerily say, “Why trespass? Are you prepared to die? Who are you?” and so on. Frank immediately leaves and vows to never return.
Can You Visit the Horton Mine?
The abandoned Horton Mine is a creepy place in central Nevada. People say that the ghosts of miners who died in accidents over the years are haunting it.
But if the abandoned Horton Mine intrigues you, you can visit the Toiyabe National Forest and find the entrance. Remember, it’s remote, dilapidated, and abandoned. If you enter, you do with risks.
Are Abandoned Mines Dangerous?
Exploring abandoned mines is dangerous, so always dress appropriately and wear tough shoes. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. It’s best not to enter alone as there are risks of cave-ins.
There is also little oxygen and often high water levels. There could also be toxic gasses present as well as dangerous wildlife.
In fact, the Abandoned Mine Lands Program of Nevada warns about the hidden hazards of abandoned mines. Their motto is “Stay Out and Stay Alive.” However, if you’re willing to risk it, there are thousands of abandoned mines in Nevada.
Are There Other Abandoned Mines in Nevada?
Nevada was named the “Silver State” for a reason. Explorers found gold in Dayton, Nev., in 1849. Upon looking for the source of that gold, those explorers found silver.
According to the Division of Minerals, “Nevada is the leading producer of gold in the United States and the fourth-largest producer of gold in the world, following South Africa, Australia, and China. Nevada continues to retain the title of ‘Silver State’ and produces significant quantities of copper, barite, gypsum, molybdenum, limestone, and aggregate.”
Experts estimate that Nevada is home to around 200,000 abandoned mines, with thousands still in working condition today. If you’re a history buff or Wild West explorer, Nevada is a place you’ll want to visit often.
Will You Visit the Abandoned Horton Mine in Nevada?
There are inherent risks with visiting an abandoned mine like the Horton Mine in central Nevada. The government warns against it. Officials explain the dangers.
But there are still ghost hunters wanting to capture the perfect footage of paranormal activity. There’s reason to believe the abandoned Horton Mine is home to ghosts.
Will you venture out to the Toiyabe National Forest and have a look for yourself? If you’ve been there before, what was your experience?
