Lone Tree Mine

Buffalo Mountain Mining District, Humboldt County, Nevada, USA

Key Information

Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.

The Lone Tree Mine is located in Humboldt County, Nevada, USA, near Interstate 80, about 17.3 km east-southeast of Golconda Summit.
It produces gold, silver, copper, and less common minerals like rhodochrosite and pharmacosiderite, appealing to mineral enthusiasts.
The geological setting includes the Valmy Formation and Antler and Havallah sequences, linked to significant tectonic events.
Mining started in 1991, produced 4.2 million ounces of gold until 2006, and is now owned by i-80 Gold.
The area has a mining history, with nearby towns like Golconda and Battle Mountain reflecting diverse cultural influences.
The climate is desert-like, with hot summers and cold winters, typical of the high desert ecology.

Location and Accessibility

The Lone Tree Mine sits in the Buffalo Mountain Mining District, Humboldt County, northwestern Nevada, close to the Oregon border. It's easily accessible via Interstate 80, near Golconda and Battle Mountain, making it a convenient stop for enthusiasts exploring the region.

Minerals and Appeal

For mineral crystal enthusiasts, the mine is a treasure trove, producing not only gold and silver but also rarer finds like rhodochrosite (manganese carbonate) and pharmacosiderite (an iron arsenic oxide). These minerals, with their unique crystal structures, are particularly sought after for collections.

Geological Context

The mine's geology is fascinating, involving rocks from the Ordovician Valmy Formation and the Antler and Havallah sequences, shaped by ancient tectonic activities like the Antler and Sonoma orogenies. This complex setting explains the rich mineralization.

Mining History and Current Status

Discovered in 1989, the mine began operations in 1991 under Santa Fe Pacific Gold, later transitioning to Newmont, and now i-80 Gold. It produced a staggering 4.2 million ounces of gold until 2006 using open pit methods, and i-80 Gold is exploring further processing of remaining resources.

Cultural and Historical Notes

The surrounding area, including Golconda and Battle Mountain, has a deep mining heritage, with diverse communities including European Americans, Paiute, and Chinese descendants. This history adds a cultural layer to the mineral exploration experience.

Climate and Ecology

Humboldt County features a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters, averaging 49.3°F. The high desert ecology, with sparse vegetation and mountain ranges, complements the rugged mining landscape.