Overview

Tramp was one of the major copper mines in the Gold Butte region, but little seems to be known about it. A 1916 mineral report says that a small carload of ore was removed and assayed at 24% copper, but the size of the mine and the amount of material removed suggests that much more ore was collected. Another account mentions that mules hauled water up to the mine and ore back down. Recorded copper production in the district (three mines) was about 75 tons, mostly taken before 1932 (probably mostly before 1918), with mining ending in 1956. Interesting mining debris remain in the area, but the mine entrance was grated in 2019.

Presented here are photos of the mining trail on the way back down. The trail is faint, but it is easy to follow, especially downhill. For a detailed description of the trail, including directions, maps, GPS coordinates, and photos, see Tramp Mine Trail.

Be sure to leave mining debris and other things as you find them -- future generations of hikers will thank you.