Entry No. 59 — the Bozeman file — filed under: abandoned-mine

Mapleton Mine

The Mapleton Mine is a historic, inactive gold and silver mine located on the western slopes of Herman Gulch in Madison County, Montana. Originally worked in the 20th century, the site historically featured two adits driven into the Precambrian gneiss of the Tobacco Root Mountains. Today, the mine is completely abandoned, with its underground workings sealed or collapsed, leaving behind only overgrown tailings piles and faint traces of its past operations.

The move: Take a scenic drive through the historic Alder Gulch area near Virginia City, and use binoculars to spot the rugged, pine-covered slopes of Herman Gulch where the old mine once operated.

📍 Before you go The mine is located on rugged terrain that is likely private property, and abandoned underground workings are structurally unsafe and off-limits.

• 📍 Mapleton Mine
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Mapleton Mine, Montana 59749, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: westernmininghistory.com · mbmg.mtech.edu

last checked: 2026-07-20