Explore Cobalt

Time: 25-35 minutes

Distance: 1.8km

Welcome to the ultimate walking tour of Cobalt! Our journey begins at Prospect Park and follows a scenic 1.8 km path along Cobalt Lake, winding through the charming streets of downtown Cobalt. Along the way, you'll encounter 13 captivating landmarks, ending at the lovely Lavender Fox Tea Room. As you explore, take a look at the town's storied monuments, such as the historic Cobalt Railway Station. Enjoy food and refreshments at local gems like the Miner’s Tavern, immerse yourself in history at the Bunker Military Museum, and discover unique treasures at downtown shops like Laura’s Art Shoppe. This 1.8 km route perfectly showcases the unique and historic beauty of Cobalt, offering an unforgettable experience of this remarkable town.

Highlights

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Prospect Park

Found by Cobalt Lake, Prospect Park is a great spot for sports and recreation. This delightful park has a variety of amenities, including a children's playground, basketball court, splash pad, soccer and baseball field, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Heritage Silver Trail Site 9 - Right of Way Mine

Heritage Silver Trail Site 9 was initially owned by the Temiskaming & Northern Ontario Railway, which reserved the mineral rights for 50 feet on either side of their track. On September 12, 1906, an Ottawa consortium leased this strip of land from Mileage 101 to 105 for $50,000 and an annual royalty of 25%. This venture, known as the Right of Way Mining Company, eventually produced over 3,000,000 ounces of silver. The site features a classic "rockhouse" that housed the headframe and adjoining facilities.

Heritage Silver Trail Site 11 - LaRose Blacksmith Shop

The Heritage Silver Trail Site 11 is the blacksmith shop of Fred LaRose who discovered the LaRose mine site in the summer of 1903. Legend has it that one evening, while LaRose was working at his forge, he spotted a red fox snooping around the camp. He swung his hammer at the fox and missed, but in doing so, LaRose struck a rock and exposed the glittering veins of silver beneath. The mine, named after him, went on to produce over 17,500,000 ounces of silver and 200,000 pounds of cobalt.

Miner's Tavern

The Miner's Tavern is a must-visit spot to enjoy a refreshing drink. Established in 1934 and rebuilt after a fire in 1947, this historic establishment has a unique charm. The tavern's rich history and inviting atmosphere make it a standout venue. Regularly hosting lively theme nights featuring performances by local artists, it's a hub of community activity. Plus, the food is exceptional, adding to the overall delightful experience.

Heritage Silver Trail Site 20 - Jack Koza Park

Heritage Silver Trail Site 20, now a park named in honor of Jack Koza, holds a rich history. Koza operated a used metal facility on the site for many years and played a major role in establishing the Cobalt Mining Museum in the early 1960s. Today, the site features an extensive collection of mining and milling equipment, accompanied by signage that thoroughly explains the use and significance of each tool and machine.

Cobalt T&NO Railway Station

The T&NO Railway Station stands as one of Cobalt's most significant public buildings. Designed by architect John Lyle in the Edwardian Classical style, this one-and-a-half-story brick station opened in 1910. The Temiskaming and Northern Ontario Railway played a crucial role in the rapid mining development of Cobalt, and this station remains an impressive testament to its foundational influence.

Heritage Silver Trail Site 14 - Pan Silver Headframe

Heritage Silver Trail Site 14 stands as a significant historical monument in the heart of downtown Cobalt. This headframe, originally installed on the Harrison-Hibbert shaft in North Cobalt, was operational until 1978. After its closure, Pan Silver, the owner, generously donated the structure to the Heritage Silver Trail Committee. In 1998, it was carefully dismantled and relocated here, transforming into a captivating visitor attraction. Today, the building houses the office of the Cobalt Historical Society. Surrounding the structure is a fascinating display of mining artifacts, each accompanied by informative signs detailing their use.

Mining Museum

The building that now houses the Mining Museum was originally known as the Cobalt Nugget Office, built in 1909. This office was the birthplace of the daily newspaper that would eventually become the North Bay Nugget. Before relocating to North Bay, the Nugget was distributed to major cities including New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. In 1963, the office was transformed into the Cobalt Mining Museum, which continues to operate today. The museum is dedicated to preserving Cobalt’s rich history and proudly features the world’s largest display of native silver ore.

Classic Theatre

Built in 1926, the Classic Theatre is the last remaining testament to the many theaters that once played a vital role in uplifting the spirits of early Cobalt's mining camp. This historic venue, an integral part of Cobalt's cultural heritage, has hosted over 70 events annually, ranging from theater and music to comedy, dance, and variety shows. Although it closed its doors in 1973, the Classic Theatre triumphantly reopened two decades later and continues to stand proud, eagerly anticipating many more years of serving its community.

Laura's Art Shoppe

Laura's Art Shoppe is a charming art store situated in downtown Cobalt. The owner, Laura Landers, is a talented local artist with a strong connection to the community. She leads workshops, hosts exhibitions, and actively supports other local artists. Inside Laura’s Art Shoppe, you’ll often find Laura diligently working on custom framing, stretching needlework, or creating her own art. With over 20 years of experience in custom framing, Laura has earned a reputation for having the finest selection of frames and an impeccable eye for enhancing each art piece. In addition to her own creations, Laura showcases works from some of the most accomplished artists and artisans in the region. The shop offers a diverse selection, including paintings, sculptures, stained glass, and pottery, ensuring there's something for every art enthusiast.

Bunker Military Museum

The Bunker Military Museum first welcomed visitors in 1990, originally housed in the former Cobalt train station. In 2010, plans were initiated for a new location in the historic Fraser Hotel Block, with a design that met modern museum standards. By 2012, the museum reopened in its new 5,600-square-foot space, making it one of the largest galleries in Northern Ontario. The museum's unique collection spans from the Boer War to present-day conflicts, showcasing artifacts from around the world, including Canada, Britain, the United States, Germany, Italy, Russia, France, and many other nations.

Coniagas Shaft - Lavender Fox Tearoom

In 1914, the town of Cobalt granted the Coniagas Mining Company permission to construct a trestle over Silver Street from its shaft on Lot 287. Operations ceased in 1924, and Anthony Giachino transformed the shaft house into a grocery and meat market, using the shaft's cold air to keep fresh meats and vegetables cool. People came from far and wide to see the famous mine shaft refrigerator. After Giachino sold the shop in 1948, the building served various purposes, including a flower shop, the town Reclamation Office, restaurants, a museum, and a bookstore. Today, it is home to The Lavender Fox, owned by tea sommelier Lola Angus and her husband, Alex Bird, a jazz artist and two-time JUNO award nominee. They offer a delightful selection of fine teas, cocktails, baked goods, and savory snacks, along with whimsical and elegant lavender décor.

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