Bingham Canyon Copper Mine

Description:

• If you're in the Salt Lake Valley, look to the southwest and you'll see a massive, easily visible scar on the eastern slopes of the Oquirrh Mountains. This is the site of Kennecott's Bingham Copper Mine. Located 28 miles southwest of Salt Lake, this has produced more copper than any mine in history. The overlook provides a breathtaking view of the enormous mining hole, the largest man-made excavation in the world. In fact, it's so big, it can be seen from outer space. Ghastly as it may seem, it's nevertheless fascinating and worth a visit. At the overlook a narration explains the operations of the mine, which include 240-340 ton haulage trucks transporting copper into the crusher. The Visitor Center displays copper and other minerals found at the copper mine. There are 3-D microscopes for examining rocks and minerals and various displays that show old and modern mining techniques and products made from the minerals found at the mine. A 16-minute video tour provides an overview of the past, present and future of Kennecott's Bingham Copper Mine. One of the haulage truck tires located at the entrance is a perfect picture spot to remember the day.
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