Entry No. 64 — the Missoula file — filed under: abandoned-mine

1890 Historical Copper Mine

Dug into the western slopes of Mount Sentinel around 1890, this small, short-lived copper mine was a failed speculative venture during Montana's copper boom. Today, hikers can find the abandoned horizontal adit cut directly into the rocky hillside along the mountain's trail network. While the tunnel has been cleared of graffiti by local volunteers, it remains a dark, empty reminder of Missoula's minor mining history.

The move: Hike up the scenic Mount Sentinel trail system together to locate the historic mine entrance, enjoying panoramic views of Missoula and the Clark Fork River Valley from the hillside.

📍 Before you go The mine is located on public land along the Mount Sentinel trail system and can be legally hiked to, but entering the dark, unmaintained adit is structurally unsafe and highly discouraged.

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

Where: V23G+X7, Missoula, MT 59801, USA

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

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Further reading: missoulian.com · worldatlas.com

last checked: 2026-07-20