Our First Exploration into an Abandoned Mine

Our journey into mine exploration began with an unforgettable adventure on Wallace Mountain in Beaverdell, BC. The initial descent into the dark, abandoned mine was both thrilling and daunting, but as our eyes adjusted, the rich history embedded within the tunnels became evident. This first experience ignited a passion for uncovering the stories these old mines hold.  There is a rich history on mining in British Columbia and hundreds of abandoned mines throughout the province....many not yet explored.

Mining in Beaverdell dates back to the late 19th century. The Highland-Bell Mine, one of the most prominent, operated continuously for nearly a century before closing in 1991. The area was rich in silver, with discoveries on Wallace Mountain in 1897 leading to the establishment of mining communities such as Beaverdell.

Not too far away from the entrance to the mine we stumbled upon the remnants of an old camp. While most buildings have succumbed to time, the site tells tales of the past. A massive garbage pile cascades down the hillside, a testament to the bustling activity that once took place here.  Further along the trail are more collapsed adits and remnants of core samples.

On subsequent visits, we've discovered several other adits on the mountain, each offering a unique glimpse into the mining era. While Dan and Austin bravely squeezed themselves through some of the small openings into the tunnels, I was not always as brave, and often chose to explore the surrounding areas, uncovering artifacts and soaking in the history.

Determined to explore safely, we've continued to further educated ourselves on how to stay safe while exploring these areas, ensuring we understand the structures and potential hazards. With each adventure into one of these mines, our confidence grows, and so does our appreciation for the miners' legacy.  

Historical Insights:

Beaverdell Mines:

Mining in Beaverdell dates back to the late 19th century. The Highland-Bell Mine, one of the most prominent, operated continuously for nearly a century before closing in 1991. The area was rich in silver, with discoveries on Wallace Mountain in 1897 leading to the establishment of mining communities.

Credit: teck.comgranbygoldinc.com 

Sally Mine

Discovered in 1901, the Sally Mine became a significant silver producer in the early 20th century. Operated initially by the Vancouver and Boundary Creek Development and Mining Co., the mine underwent various ownership changes and periods of activity until it was integrated into the Highland-Bell mine operations in 1949. The Sally Mine is notable for its extensive underground workings, which connect at depth to the Wellington Mine.

​Credit:  minfile.gov.bc.ca

Rob Roy Mine

Adjacent to the Sally Mine, the Rob Roy Mine also played a role in the area's silver production. This mine, along with the Sally and Pueblo claims, featured multiple veins rich in silver-lead mineralization. The combined workings of these mines contributed to the extensive mining network on Wallace Mountain. ​

Credit: minfile.gov.bc.ca

Wellington Mine

The Wellington Mine is another key site on Wallace Mountain, known for its silver-lead-zinc deposits. It was one of the major producers in the Beaverdell mining camp, with operations dating back to the late 19th century. The mine's extensive workings and production history highlight the area's rich mineral resources. ​

Credit: minfile.gov.bc.ca

Geological Context

The geological framework of Wallace Mountain is characterized by granodiorite of the Westkettle batholith, intruded by quartz monzonite porphyry stocks such as the Beaverdell stock. These geological formations have played a crucial role in the area's mineralization, hosting the rich silver and gold veins that spurred mining activities. ​

Credit: minfile.gov.bc.ca

Exploring these historical mining sites offers a glimpse into the industrious past of Wallace Mountain and the broader Beaverdell region, showcasing the enduring legacy of mining in shaping local history and development.

Safety Awareness and Precautions!

Exploring abandoned mines is an exciting but extremely dangerous activity. Mines can be unstable, contain hidden hazards, and pose serious risks, including collapsing tunnels, toxic gases, deep shafts, and poor air quality. It is critical to educate yourself on mine safety before venturing into any underground space.

Key Safety Precautions:
✔️ Never explore alone—always go with someone else.
✔️ Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
✔️ Wear proper safety gear, including helmets, sturdy boots, and headlamps.
✔️ Be aware of unstable structures, loose rock, and unexpected vertical drops.
✔️ Avoid touching or disturbing anything inside, as it may be structurally weak or hazardous.
✔️ Know the signs of bad air (lack of oxygen, presence of gases) and carry proper detection equipment if necessary.
✔️ If in doubt, stay out—no discovery is worth your safety.

We take our safety seriously when exploring mines, using proper precautions, and continuously educating ourselves. If you're interested in exploring, we strongly encourage thorough research and, when possible, guidance from experienced professionals. Stay safe and adventure responsibly!

Goat Peak Fire Lookout

Our adventures also led us to the summit of Goat Peak, home to an abandoned fire lookout. The journey involves a drive up the mountain, followed by an easy 15-minute hike to the lookout. From this vantage point, the panoramic views of Boundary Country are breathtaking, with sights extending to Big White Ski Resort, Grand Forks and beyond. The lookout stands as a sentinel of the past, offering insight into the region's efforts in forest fire management.  The lookout is well maintained by those who explore the area.  There is also a visitors log inside the lookout for those who have ventured up to share there experience.  These fire lookouts are a thing of the past and many are no longer around and not maintained.  It is important to respect the area.

Respecting Fire Lookouts: A Piece of History Worth Preserving

Fire lookouts are a relic of the past, once vital for wildfire detection but now largely abandoned or maintained by dedicated volunteers. These sites offer breathtaking views and a glimpse into history, but they need our respect to remain accessible for future explorers.

When visiting a fire lookout:
✔️ Pack out everything you bring—leave no trace.
✔️ Avoid damaging structures or removing artifacts.
✔️ Respect the efforts of volunteers who maintain these sites.
✔️ Be mindful of fire risks and follow local regulations.

By treating these lookouts with care, we help preserve an important part of history and ensure that others can enjoy them for years to come. Adventure responsibly!

Each expedition to Wallace Mountain deepens our connection to the region's rich history. The blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes every trip a unique experience, fuelling our desire to continue exploring and sharing these hidden gems with you.

For a visual glimpse into our mine and fire lookout adventures, check out these videos on YouTube: