Greathouse Visitor Center

Took my son for the first time on may 5. Id known about this local gem for quite some time but had to wait until my eldest son was seven years old, which is the youngest a child can be before entering any of the mines and It was well worth the wait. The mines themselves are only accessible via their tours which fill up quickly. It is recommended that you call ahead and make a reservation although they do offer standby lists on site but my son and I had to be there well over an hour to make sure we had a spot on it. The wait was worth it as there are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas and, of course, a gift shop, to keep one entertained in the meantime.

Once you pay and enter the Black Diamond Regional Preserve, make the first left into the parking lot. You will easily find the Visitors center. If you plan to take a mine tour you must purchase ticket here first. The homes you see have been moved back there to their original location when these townships were up and running. My favorite hike is to head up to see the cemetery then head over the hill down into what once was the Nortonville town site. Then make the left that will take you up through Coal Canyon, (there are signposts to help guide you along the way) two small caves are accessible to the right on your way. It is somewhat strenuously, but at the top of the trail to the left you will see Jims place on the left, a small habitat fave that was once occupied by a Jim. Outstanding. After, you will see a much easier path back towards the beginning. Just take a left and follow the signs. All total it is around a 7 mile hike. Enjoy!

Amazing facility, had no idea it was there. Highly recommended for family exploring, kids must be over 7yrs for a tour of the underground mines.

Interesting tour. Geology, history, engineering all for $5

Very cool place to visit! Be sure to go on their tour, you get to go inside the mine! Its one hour 15min long and only $5! Check the tour time so you dont have to wait, last tour was 3pm when I was there. Theres $1 ice cream to buy at the center, in case you do end up waiting, they leave on time so be a little early.

I almost died and had to be rescued by other hikers when I slipped and almost fell into the canyon. Our friends car was broken into in the parking lot and park staff were No where to he found except for at the front gate. Also the exhibit was closed during hours it says it should be open

Come visit this historic jewel.

The caves are great!!

This is a wonderful place I recommend for all family to enjoy more of the nature .

Good place will go again

Amazing place....

Nice hikes, cool mines tour

Nice place

Cool underground Visitor Center

Very cool mine tour, beautiful area.

Awesome place