Blue Heron Mining Community

This former coal mining town was founded in 1937 with the residents working under Stearns Coal and Lumber Company. Up until 1962 when the mine closed down coal was a very profitable enterprise here. Also known as "Mine 18" the abandoned town is part of the National Park Service. Your self-guided tour starts at the depot and takes you through the town with its recreated buildings each with its own audio program. Although the visitor center has limited hours, the outdoor areas of the mining community are open year-round and can be visited at any time. To find the parking area drive south on Blue Heron Rd. all the way to the end. You will eventually see the parking lot.