The Red Pine Mine is located at 45.52048, -112.08479 just outside of Sheridan, Montana. Originally developed in the late 1800s-1920s, it’s now partially abandoned. Recent activity there suggests a project could be underway to continue operations in a limited capacity at the mine. I visited this in late April. For most of the country, late April means rain, warmth, and a fresh growth of brightly colored flowers. In the Tobacco Roots (the mountain range in which the mine is located), it means sleet, mud, and clouds. I experienced all three in my journey here, in addition to waist-deep snow banks.

The mine itself is well developed and has lots of historical garbage left around for even the most novice of explorer’s intrigue. Lots of minecarts, more than I’ve seen outside a museum, were scattered around the property. Speaking of property- the ownership is questionable, at best. The latest Forest Service topo maps show the land as purely public, no active mining claims or property deeds to be found. The mapping company onX, with whom I have intimate knowledge of, also shows it as public. And yet, the front road to the mine is marked with a “No Trespassing” sign and an (unlocked) gate. Perhaps it’s a true claim but the maps haven’t gotten updated yet.

There were two open adits at this mine. The lower workings looked to be flooded and had a strange, hand written note over a sliding corrugated aluminum door reading “Smile you on camera” as best I could tell. I didn’t take a chance- though the chances of even a game camera lasting the winter on a set of batteries was pretty low.

The upper workings were open, but had a metal grated gate with no less than 4 padlocks on it preventing even the most eager explorer from passing. Peering through, I could see more minecarts reinforcing the idea this mine is still somewhat active.

Nearby, (and solidly on public land), is a waterfall dropping about 20ft into a pristine ice cold splash pool. We’ll revisit in the summer months when it’s not covered in ice.