Found 3 mines in the Ladrones!!!

[1stTimeProspector]

I went up to the Ladrones mountains today 1/26/12 to do some exploring. On my trip I found 3 mines! two are approx. 40ft deep straight down and appear to continue underground. The 3rd one is approx. 25ft deep and grounds out either filled in or abandoned there's a wooden ladder at the bottom. If anyone's interested in exploring them with me let me know!

 

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[chrisplay2004]

I used to explore many mines until they closed them or buried them.
I have climbing equipment and spelunking equipment.
It sure would be cool to check these out.
Post your pics so I get a glance.
I am in Albuquerque but may be able to make time in March.

 

[snakeyes]

Sounds interesting I would go with you also, but doubt I would drop down into any shaft, but I would cheer you on
I also live in Albuquerque.
Marty

 

[1stTimeProspector]

I went up to the Ladrones mountains today 1/26/12 to do some exploring. On my trip I found 3 mines! two are approx. 40ft deep straight down and appear to continue underground. The 3rd one is approx. 25ft deep and grounds out either filled in or abandoned there's a wooden ladder at the bottom. If anyone's interested in exploring them with me feel free to reply on here or email me [email protected] I do have pics of them as well.

 

[chrisplay2004]

Wow, those look way cool. One thing abount many NM mines is they are granite. Most I have been in were pretty safe in most sections. Although they tend to have some dangerous cross sections.

 

[Springfield]

Wow, those look way cool. One thing abount many NM mines is they are granite. Most I have been in were pretty safe in most sections. Although they tend to have some dangerous cross sections.

That vertical shaft appears to be untimbered, which indicates solid ground. In any case, please be careful if you attempt to explore these old workings. Loose rock, bad air and other hazards can exist in all old mines and caves. Many experienced folks have encountered unexpected problems in these places. Be sure to let somebody know where you are and when you expect to return.

 

[NGE]

Bad air (you mean methane?) Toss a lit torch in before having a look-see.........MM

 

[1stTimeProspector]

Wow, those look way cool. One thing abount many NM mines is they are granite. Most I have been in were pretty safe in most sections. Although they tend to have some dangerous cross sections.

Can you tell what kind of rock that is from the pics at all?

 

[chrisplay2004]

Ladrone is mostly granite. Please do not toss a torch in, you could create a really bad explosion. It is easy to find out about methane just by repelling down the shaft. About 3/4 of the way down you usually can smell it. However, once down there you may find pockets of methane in the cross sections. To date I have have only come across one mine with methane in NM and never encountered it in any cave. I have explored about 150 cave systems and 50+ mines in NM. In additioin, I have explored caves and mines in Mexico and accross the US. One rule I always follow is to have a team of at least 3 people.

 

[1stTimeProspector]

Ladrone is mostly granite. Please do not toss a torch in, you could create a really bad explosion. It is easy to find out about methane just by repelling down the shaft. About 3/4 of the way down you usually can smell it. However, once down there you may find pockets of methane in the cross sections. To date I have have only come across one mine with methane in NM and never encountered it in any cave. I have explored about 150 cave systems and 50+ mines in NM. In additioin, I have explored caves and mines in Mexico and accross the US. One rule I always follow is to have a team of at least 3 people.

Yeah I wouldn't be dumb enough to do that anyway! Sounds like you have been busy!! Have you ever found anything in these mines or caves that you have gone in to? Thanks for the tips it's greatly appreciated!

 

[chrisplay2004]

Here is some of my equipment to keep me safe. In my pm to 1stTimeprospec I forgot to mention a Harness. You will see three of mine in these photos. Notice the scratches on my helmet. You will be suprised how often you bump your headoin tight spaces like mines.
Pic 1 is Carabiners, Figure 8 descenders and pulley.
Pic 2 is Swiss made Juamr Ascenders
Pic 3 is three different harness's
Pic 4 is two of my newer ropes
Pic 5 shows my Helmet with everything under it

 

[Dustedyou]

Anyone wana play?? hehe Found gold in Washes outside of the Ladrones,, but now im working a mine (good vein) anyhoo Hollar if your going somewhere ,, need a lookout or a partner in crime! (Disclaimer: Will not help to bury Bodies till we've had Lunch!)

 

[snoman5150]

I'm down!
I am not a cave diver by any means but I have a few good flashlights and some rope......
better yet I have a rock hammer and a drill! If you have a decent little sweet spot I'd come put in some physical labor for a share in the bounty!
Where are the Ladrones? I haven't been in Albuquerque that long but have never heard of them.

 

[Barton]

Hello 1time prospector,

Care to tell me about your trip, what was down in the mines?
Did you find any ore veins?

If you wanta prospecting partner i am herein Northern NM.
[email protected]

Barton

 

[Dustedyou]

Haha, been gone a while trying to make it on a single mine, there are 31000+ abandoned mines here in nm, and I've been to a bunch. I'm all ways down to go or to send someone to the right one. Hit me up [email protected]