Reward Mine

Located across the valley from Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, Reward Mine offers a one-of-a-kind offroad experience. Unlike most trails, this destination allows visitors to experience underground offroading, making for an unforgettable and thrilling ride. The journey takes you about half a mile into the Inyo Mountains, with even more opportunities for on-foot exploration. Whether you're a seasoned mine enthusiast or just looking for a unique and slightly eerie adventure, Reward Mine takes mine exploration to an exciting new level.

Steeped in history, the Reward Mine was the first operational mine in Owens Valley, running from 1860 through the 1980s under several different names. Between 1889 and 1951, it yielded an impressive 600,000 ounces of gold, along with silver, copper, and lead. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the past, including stone building ruins, ore bins, and mining equipment. However, the true highlight of this destination is the rare opportunity to drive directly into the mine itself, an experience that sets Reward Mine apart from any other offroad trail.