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California is known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, including a number of intriguing and eerie ghost towns.
These abandoned towns offer a glimpse into the past and provide a unique and often haunting experience for visitors. However, there is one ghost town in California that you simply can’t visit⁚ Eagle Mountain.
Eagle Mountain, located in Riverside County, was founded in 1948 by industrialist Henry J. Kaiser. The town was established at the entrance of the Eagle Mountain iron mine, which was owned by the Southern Pacific Railroad and later Kaiser Steel.
Situated on the southeastern corner of Joshua Tree National Park, Eagle Mountain was once a thriving community complete with a fully integrated medical care system and various amenities.
However, Eagle Mountain is off-limits to visitors due to its current ownership status. In April 2023, the land and mining site of Eagle Mountain were purchased by California-based Ecology Mountain Holdings for a staggering 22.5 million. The intentions of the buyers remain unknown, leaving many intrigued about the future of this abandoned ghost town.
Despite its inaccessibility, the history and significance of Eagle Mountain make it a fascinating topic of exploration. The town had rows of mostly empty houses, abandoned schools, stores, and even a standing laundry mat. The roads are all paved, but little care has been taken to maintain them. However, unlike most ghost towns, Eagle Mountain still has a staffed firehouse.
While you might not be able to physically visit Eagle Mountain, there are other ghost towns in California that you can explore. Bodie, Calico, Rhyolite, and North Bloomfield are just a few examples of well-preserved ghost towns that offer a glimpse into California’s past. These towns have been restored and are open to visitors, allowing you to step back in time and experience the history and stories of the people who once lived there.
Although Eagle Mountain may be off-limits for now, it remains a fascinating piece of California’s history. Whether it’s the mystery surrounding its recent purchase or the eerie feeling of a town frozen in time, Eagle Mountain sparks curiosity and intrigue. While you can’t physically visit this ghost town, the stories and history associated with it are still worth exploring.
