Where is Big Four Mine?

Where is Big Four Mine?

Usa, north-america

Length

9.7 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I just discovered this crazy cool abandoned mine called Big Four way out in the eastern-central California part of Death Valley. Back in the day, they were digging for lead and zinc mostly, but they also pulled out some silver, gold, and copper in the 40s and 50s.

Getting there is half the fun (and half the challenge!). The road starts out pretty chill for the first five miles – just some easily passable dirt. But hold on tight, because that last mile gets serious! You're definitely gonna need a high-clearance 4x4 to make it. It’s a bumpy six-mile ride along the east bank north of Panamint Dunes pull-off.

The road is almost flat, rising to 199 meters, but don't let that fool you. The real hazards are that crazy terrain, and, of course, the Death Valley heat! Seriously, pack tons of water, hit the road early, and don’t underestimate that desert sun. You'll get spectacular views of Western Death Valley and get to hike around Mount Pisgah and Red Pass.

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Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
9.7 km
Difficulty
extreme

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