Entry No. 64 — the Boise file — filed under: abandoned

Black Hornet Mine

Discovered in 1891 in the Boise foothills, the Black Hornet Mine was a modest gold-mining operation that saw a brief investment boom in the mid-1890s. Though production largely ceased by World War II, the site still retains historical remnants of its mining past. Today, hikers can find old tailing piles, rusted machinery parts, and sealed or open adits scattered across the rugged terrain.

The move: Hike up the scenic trails of the Boise River Wildlife Management Area to view the historic tailing piles and rusted mining relics from a safe distance.

📍 Before you go Located on public land within the Boise River Wildlife Management Area, but the mine shafts, adits, and surrounding structures are highly unstable and hazardous to enter.

• 📍 Black Hornet Mine
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Black Hornet Mine, Idaho 83716, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: idahostatesman.com

last checked: 2026-07-20