Rinconada Mercury Mine

It's hard to believe that this beautiful area was home to a toxic mine that spewed out heavy metals. California once was a leading producer of mercury and this was one of the mines that created much of the output. The mine closed down in the 1960s and the EPA cleaned up the area. Now it is only an oddity on a trail used by hikers, photographers, and bored teens. The mine is covered in graffiti but it still has a distinct steampunk look to it that is a throwback to the late 1800s when it first started producing. (Photo by Cayley Ho)