Quincy Copper Mine — Houghton, Michigan

I spent the late afternoon exploring the fascinating Quincy Mine above Hancock, Michigan — a place known as “Old Reliable” for its rich copper deposits and long history. From a quiet morning by Portage Lake to descending deep into Level 7 of the mine, I learned how miners once carved out a life in this dangerous industry, working by candlelight and fighting for better conditions. The old hoist houses, rusted ore cars, and wildflowers tell the story of a bygone boomtown — one you can still feel echoing through the dark tunnels today.