Cerro Gordo Mines

Cerro Gordo, tucked into the Inyo Mountains of Inyo County near Lone Pine, California, is a historic ghost town built around a sprawling collection of abandoned mines. Operations here ran from 1866 to 1957, pulling silver, lead, and zinc ore from the earth — with gold and copper appearing on rarer occasions. The site represents nearly a century of industrial activity in a remote, rugged desert mountain setting.

Visitors today find the remnants of that long mining era scattered across a stark high-elevation landscape. The isolation that defined the town during its working years is still very much present, making the journey itself part of the experience. Access involves a steep, unpaved road, and conditions can make the route impassable in winter months. Spring through early fall is the practical window for a visit, with summer and early autumn offering the most reliable road conditions. Given its remoteness and elevation, travelers should come prepared with water, food, and a capable vehicle.