Entry No. 56 — the Helena file — filed under: ruins

Diamond Mine

Erected in 1898, the steel headframe of the Diamond Mine (often called the Bell-Diamond) is the oldest surviving headframe on Butte Hill. The underground copper mine once reached a depth of over 3,600 feet before operations ceased in 1958. Today, the iconic 100-foot-tall 'gallus frame' and its sealed shaft remain as a stark monument overlooking the city and the nearby Berkeley Pit.

The move: Take a scenic drive or walk up Butte Hill to photograph the historic 100-foot-tall steel headframe from a safe distance, then head to the nearby Granite Mountain Speculator Mine Memorial to take in the sweeping views of the valley.

📍 Before you go The headframe and surrounding mine yard are fenced off on private property with no public access, but the massive structure is easily visible and photogenic from nearby public roads.

• 📍 Butte
• 💸 Free
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Diamond Mine, Butte, MT 59701, USA

Hours: Added 2026-07-20 — confirm current access before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: storyofbutte.org

last checked: 2026-07-20