Still Here But For How Long?

Photographed Oct. 2014 on a weekend trip to the Eastern Sierras at the old Chemung Mine

Ravaged by treasure hunters and the harsh elements, the decaying mining sites of the Bodie hills are fleeting photographic subjects about to vanish soon. Chemung Mine is one of the largest mines in the Masonic District and it is one of the most photogenic.

Located at 8000 ft and surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, it is hard to believe that a deranged ghost, who allegedly only takes offense if you show up on Saturday nights, haunts this place. Then again, who am I to discount stories of other travelers who chose to believe? Make up your own mind on a visit to one of the coolest historic mining sites of the west.

The Chemung Mine is one the most impressive mining site in the Bodie hills. Its large mill and several other structures cling together like a corral, trying to fend off unwelcome visitors. The mine is a lot of fun to explore, but also a dangerous place. The structures are not safe anymore and the mining shafts pose dangers as well.