Entrances into mines generally run horizontally or vertically, but some just follow a vein or deposit running neither exactly horizontally nor vertically. Nonetheless, openings that generally run horizontally are referred to as "adits," while those that generally run vertically are referred to as "shafts." In my own mind, if I can walk in, I call it an adit, otherwise I call it a shaft. Of course, mines are never safe to enter -- so don't. Click the links below for more photos. Remember: Stay Out. Stay Alive!

Mine Adit

An adit with timbers	Timbers are intended to hold up the ceiling
Timbers holding up loose rocks	Timber holding up a loose rock - this can't be safe!
A bench? No - this roof collapsed despite the timbers!	Looking inside a collapsed adit - timbers didn't help here
Cribbing holding timbers in place	Cribbing holding timbers in place
Mine opening (adit) and mine tailings	Mine opening (adit) and mine tailings

Mine Shaft

Unmarked and uncovered -- too close to the highway	This loose dirt is extremely dangerous
Large-scale mine collapse	Watch for loose and unstable dirt around the collar
Unmarked and uncovered -- too close to the highway	Holy crap! -- too close!!! (Mojave National Preserve)

Happy hiking! All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
; Last updated 240323