Join the open house celebration of the greatly expanded Hazel-Atlas silica sand mine tour at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch on April 5th and 6th. Take a quick peek or a leisurely stroll through 810 feet of this 1930s era mine. It's our opening weekend of mine operation for the year, so come enjoy some magnificent history and spectacular underground features. Staff and volunteers will be stationed throughout the mine to point out features and answer questions. Reservations are not required for this special event. Ages 7 and up are welcome; parent participation required.

Until now, visitors have been conducted about 400 feet down an adit (access tunnel) to see the chamber that was set up as the office of the mining crew supervisor (shifter). Gary Righettini, the park district's Mine Manager, said, "This is a great opportunity to experience local history in person. You'll be able to get a close up look at the stopes [chambers] where the miners did their work."

Renovations included the construction of 50 galvanized steel stabilization piles. Two existing timber bridges have been replaced, and additional timbering is being installed in the tunnels.

The Open House is Saturday and Sunday, April 5 and 6, noon to 4 p.m. The event will be free. The Greathouse Visitors Center is closed for repairs this year. Parking is $5.

If you miss the Open House, the mine is also open for tours on the weekends at noon and 3 pm - come an hour early as it's first come, first served. Groups must make a reservation. Call 1 (888) EBPARKS for reservations.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, 5175 Somersville Road, Antioch, CA 94509
Public Information: (925) 757-2620 or www.ebparks.org.

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