Orphan Mine - Maricopa Point

The Maricopa Overlook takes in steep views of the Orphan Mine and its operations. This mine was one of the largest uranium producers in the region and had roots since the 1890s. The early miners didn't know about the uranium and mined copper until the mine was sold in 1946. Then around 1951, the mine was discovered to have some of the richest uranium deposits around and mining operations heavily increased. There is a 1,500 ft vertical shaft that connects where the original headframe stood all the way to the mine below. Mining eventually stopped in 1969 and many of the structures have been dismantled. You can still see some remnants of the mine, including an open shaft that you can see well along this trail. You also get some incredible views of the Grand Canyon from Maricopa Point.