Utahns are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. We’ve protected vast areas of the state to keep it as pristine as it was centuries ago, but we’ve also greatly changed the landscape in other places. The first pioneers farmed the land, laid out streets and built buildings. They planted trees and gardens, and transformed the valley. Ever since, Utahns have continued to grow and develop the Beehive State, making it into the vibrant place in which we live, work and play.
There’s one place in Utah where history has definitely made a mark. It’s a fascinating place that changed the landscape so much that you can see it from space. Take a look:
The Bingham Canyon Mine opened in 1906.
Don.. the UpNorth Memories Guy/flickr
When this photo was taken, the mine extended 1,800 feet from the surface to its bottom.
Don.. the UpNorth Memories Guy/flickr
Today, the mine extends 3/4 mile (3,960 feet) from the earth’s surface. The mine is so large that you can see it from space.
Doc Searls/flickr
This satellite image from 2011 shows the copper mine as captured from the NASA Earth Observatory.
By NASA Earth Observatory image by Jesse Allen and Robert Simmon Public Domain/Wikimedia
The photo, taken in 2004, shows the mine set against the backdrop of the Oquirrh Mountains.
Ken Lund/flickr
Humongous trucks move ore inside the deep mine. These trucks carry 320-ton loads. The drivers sit three stories above ground, and the trucks measure 30 feet wide and 40 feet long - the size of a house!
Aga1963/Tripadvisor
In this photo, you can see how tiny these immense trucks appear in comparison to the mine. It’s the largest excavation made by man on the entire planet.
Miaomiao WANG/flickr
After a devastating landslide in 2013, the Visitor Center closed permanently, but you can still view the mine from an overlook along Butterfield Canyon Road. However, the road to reach the overlook is unpaved and is typically closed from November to June.
Cassi Gurell/flickr A great way to see the mine up close and learn more about it is with this virtual tour on Rio Tinto Kennecott’s website.
My own family has a long history with the Kennecott Copper Mine; both my grandfathers worked their entire lives there. Do you have family or loved ones who worked or currently work at Kennecott?
Don.. the UpNorth Memories Guy/flickr
Doc Searls/flickr
By NASA Earth Observatory image by Jesse Allen and Robert Simmon Public Domain/Wikimedia
Ken Lund/flickr
Aga1963/Tripadvisor
Miaomiao WANG/flickr
Cassi Gurell/flickr
A great way to see the mine up close and learn more about it is with this virtual tour on Rio Tinto Kennecott’s website.
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