Uncover the Mysterious World Hiding in This Abandoned Michigan Mine

I’m always down for a nature hike where I get to see some cool plants, maybe an animal or two, and an interestingly shaped rock, but my favorite kinds of hikes are those that make me feel like I’ve been transported to another world. Abandoned places like ghost towns, crumbling ruins: These are the locations that make me feel like I’m walking around in a movie. If you love that feeling as much as I do, I’ve got the perfect afternoon trek in Michigan that’ll make you feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.

The Arnold Mine Trail is a part of the Holy Transfiguration Monastic Park in Michigan. It’s a 2.5-mile loop that takes just under two hours to complete, and feels like an adventure every step of the way. It can be a bit of a challenge, as you will be clambering down some rugged areas, so I recommend bringing a good pair of shoes. Snacks, water, and, in the summer, bug spray would also be on that list of things to bring along.

You’ll pass by Jacob’s Waterfall on your way down, which is really icing on the cake. It’s an elegant waterfall that really sets off the trail as an adventure that is unfolding before you. The path is also dotted with beautiful homemade benches, perfect for a rest stop or a quick lunch break. Each is uniquely designed and definitely worth a look.

The Arnold Mine was established in 1860 and operated for almost forty years. It was a copper mine, and the miners dug into the Ashbed Amygdaloid, a layer of rock that features hollow areas where copper could be found. It’s a part of the Portage Lake Volcanics, a flood basalt lava flow that is one of the biggest of its kind. While the mine was never truly successful, the miners did manage to rake in two million pounds of copper before abandoning the operation.

The ruins of the mine are now like a crumbling maze. The stony, moss-covered walls are in a state of decay, and it really feels like you’re an adventurer looking for some ancient treasure. Old tools, furnaces, and other structures can still be found, but be mindful of touching them; they are historical artifacts that have grown delicate with age. 

The ruins offer a fantastic glimpse into the past, providing a great way to time-travel to a different era. The trail, although simple, provides an excellent opportunity to enter a completely different world. If you’re looking for a chance to live out your dreams as a treasure hunter, exploring ancient ruins, this trail is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. I think this trail is one of the most fascinating hikes in Michigan.

If you plan to do any hiking, download the AllTrails app on your phone so that you can have easy access to maps, trail information, as well as curated lists on the best hikes in your area.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.