On Friday, we took a bus tour to the Great Salt Lake and the Kennecott Mine.
On Friday, we took a bus tour to the Great Salt Lake and the Kennecott Mine.
Our first stop was the former resort of Saltaire. The lake level varies so much
that building a resort on the edge is risky. It rises and falls by 20 or more feet, which
leaves a resort either flooded, or stranded in mud flats.
Former glory is shown in this model.
Saltaire is
currently being used as a venue for teen music events.
Our first approach of the Great Salt Lake.
Our next stop brought us closer to the water. While we didn't try it,
there were a few swimmers/floaters? in the water.
It was easier to get to the water at the marina boat ramp.
Our tour guide scooped up some brine shrimp, aka 'sea monkeys'.
Across from the marina was the smelter for the mine. The stack is 1215' high.
As we approached the mine itself, we began to see the tailings from the operation.
After a slow trip up to the rim, we got out at the visitor center and headed for the
overlook.
The Kennecott Bingham Canyon Mine is one of the world's largest open-pit
copper mines. It's 3/4 mile deep.
The trucks used to haul the ore dwarf a standard-size pickup.
This is one of the tires for those humongous trucks, oh, and some silly relatives.
Yes, Hubbells like to take pictures.
Copper ore sample in the visitor center.
Aunt Marge, Aunt Mary, Mother.