That does sound like a very interesting hike, and well worth the time and effort. Just to reach the mine is accomplishment enough, but how cool is it that you also got to see the animals you did?

I love hiking and haven't done a strenuous one in some months. I especially like going alone sometimes, for the opportunity for contemplation and encounters with wildlife.

Thanks for sharing your adventure here, it was cool to read about it. And yeah, why would people tag in an abandoned mine? I wish they'd stop doing it anywhere and everywhere, to tell the truth...