The Grand Canyon Mines: A Look Back in Time

Would it surprise you to know that the Grand Canyon is home to numerous mines? If

you’ve taken a Grand Canyon tour in recent years, then you’ve probably already heard all

about these historical landmarks, but for those of you who haven’t, continue reading for a

glimpse into this popular vacation spot’s vast underground history.

Grandview Mine

On the south rim of the canyon you’ll find the Grandview Mine, which was started in the

1890s. The site was also home to the park’s first hotel, and both the mine and hotel were

purchased by millionaire William Randolph Hearst in 1913, who managed them both

until he sold them to the Park Service in 1940. In total, at least 42 minerals have been

discovered at Grandview. Many of these minerals were exclusive to this particular mine

and never found elsewhere, including Grandviewite, which was recognized as a new

mineral in 2007. Although it’s been a popular tourist spot in years past, bat gates were

installed at the mine in 2009 to hinder visitors and mineral collectors.

Orphan Mine

The Orphan Mine was started by Dan Hogan in 1893 and later patented in 1906 with

Charlie Babbitt. Hogan sold the mine to Madeleine Jacobs in 1946. In 1951, the

discovery of uranium ore on the site made the mine an integral part of the uranium

mining boom during the Cold War. The Orphan Mine was officially closed on April 25,

1969. During its many years of operation, the mine produced an astounding 4.26 million

pounds of uranium oxide U308, over 100,000 ounces of silver, 6.68 million pounds of

copper, and 3,400 pounds of vanadium oxide. Tourists played an important part in the

mine’s popularity also. The Grand Canyon Inn, which is located near the mine site,

became the chosen place of travelers and historians. Many were able to tour the mines by

paying to ride the tramway, which wasn’t officially dismantled until 1965.

Last Chance Mine

The Last Chance Mine is located at the end of the Grandview Trail, and it is

affectionately remembered as one of the most successful mining operations in the Grand

Canyon. Ten mules used to make a trip and a half to the mine each day from 1893 to

1907, and each mule carried at least 200 pounds of core ore up from the mine. The ore

was then transported to El Paso, Texas for processing, and it is estimated the mine

produced almost $100,00 worth of copper during its operation. Although most of the

mine’s remains are gone now, many visitors have stumbled upon numerous artifacts in

recent years, including ore carts, an ore crusher, and mine shafts. The National Register

of Historic Places includes The Grandview Mining District in its registry, therefore

protecting it by federal law against those who threaten to disturb its natural beauty and

prevalent history.

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