Julian - Gold Mining and Pies

We finally shared the gem that is Julian, California with my parents and Papa today.  We scheduled a gold mine tour and train ride to start, which was new to all of us.

Smith Ranch Mine is a family owned ranch with a narrow gauge train and an actual gold mine from the 1800's.  They have school groups and families come throughout the year to learn about the gold rush in Julian.

Ready for the ride to begin.  Eliza couldn't make up her mind where to sit.

Dad, Mom and Papa ready to go into the mine.

Dominic pushed the girls into the mine in one of the mine cars.

It was really interesting to see the different minerals in the walls, and learn about the mining process.

While the girls did an "adventure course" Papa, made friends with the Smith family's dog.

The girls panned for gold, and then got to feel the weight of a gold brick.  They couldn't even lift it.

We went to our favorite winery on the opposite side of town - Menghini, then had lunch at the local BBQ place.  It was delicious, and the girls were excited to sit at the giant bear table.  We walked a little while up and down Main Street, stopped in a few shops, then made our way to The Julian Pie Company.  We brought home 2 pies and had a beautiful drive home through the mountains.