Solo Adventure to a Remote Mine Perched on a Cliff

This mine has been on my radar for a long time and I was excited to finally check it out. I completed my trip solo, which is always an interesting experience, especially in a very remote part of the U.S. A steep hike through a rough wash brought me to the base of the mine's waste dump. One final scramble up the scree got me to the mine. The mine workings are perched high up on a cliff with an amazing view of the surrounding mountains. This mine was worked for lead and copper primarily, with some reported silver and gold recovered as well. The ore body was exploited through a single massive stope, that opens up to daylight at the highest point of the mine workings. The stope was impressive to see, and it was easily explorable due to its shallow decline angle. Due to this mine's extremely remote location, ore could only be reliably transported via an aerial tramway. The tram towers remain standing precariously atop the steep, rocky cliffs. Additionally, electrical service was provided for this mine (miraculously). The electrical towers were similarly constructed on the cliffs, high above the canyon's bottom. It was astonishing to see these structures positioned in such perilous locations. Despite the likely harsh conditions this mine endures, the equipment and artifacts left behind by the miners have faired relatively well. I'm sure there are more artifacts than just the items I show. Remnants of electrical infrastructure, the tram systems, and structures are evident throughout the site. Join the Mines of the West Loyalty Membership to get access to exclusive perks:    / @minesofthewest   #minesofthewest #urbex #abandonedmine #mineexploring #abandoned #mining #exploring #desert #travel #history #adit #shaft #underground #minerals #silvermine #goldmine #exploringabandonedmines