Posted in Virginia
May 03, 2020
Explore The Pyrite Mine Ruins That Nature Has Reclaimed On This Forested Trail Through Virginia
Who doesn’t love the chance to engage in history while enjoying one of Virginia’s beautiful trails? That’s exactly what you can look forward to on the Pyrite Mine Loop Trail. Though this loop is lengthy — nearly seven miles — you’ll find things to enjoy at every turn: wildlife, waterfalls, bridge crossings, and of course, the namesake mine. Plus, there’s the option to take the 0.3-mile trail that will lead you directly to the Cabin Branch Pyrite Mine. Curious to learn more about what awaits at Prince William Forest Park? Let’s get started!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Visitors who wish to engage in history will find that this park offers the perfect opportunity in the form of the Pyrite Mine Loop Trail.
From Parking Lot D, hike along Pyrite Mine Road for about ten minutes until you reach the trail maker.
The history of the mine began by happenstance: a man named John Detrick was hiking along Quantico Creek and noticed something shiny in the water, which was later identified as pyrite, commonly known as Fool's Gold.
The mine was a difficult place to work by all accounts. Workers clocked between ten and twelve hours a day, six days a week and earned between $3.50 - $4.25 each shift. Yet despite the difficult conditions, there was also a true sense of camaraderie among workers. Though the nearby town of Dumfries was segregated, the mine was an integrated workplace where African Americans, Irish immigrants, and Italian immigrants could all work together. There was even a company town on the property, which included a company store, small railroad, and blacksmith shop.
When the Clean Water Act was passed in 1970, the National Park Service began reclaiming the area, which had been left untouched since the closing. At that time the pH level in the creek directly in front of the mine site was 2.8 -- the equivalent of vinegar! Thanks to the replanting and revitalization efforts of the NPS, future generations of visitors will be able to learn from the history of the mines and enjoy the land.
Have you hiked this trail before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences! For more information about the Cabin Branch Pyrite Mine, you can click here.
Address: 18170 Park Entrance Rd, Triangle, VA 22172, USA
