Gillette & Tip-Top Ghost Towns
04/09/2009
04/09/2009
04/09/2009
We loaded up the truck with Don, Arlene and Ruby and headed out to see just how much of these two old mining towns we could find.
Gillette is mostly gone. Only the remains of the old hotel are still standing. Like much of Arizona's history it has been carted off for use elsewhere.
Tip-Top, so named because it was a "tip-top silver mine" has fared a bit better. Many of the old building foundations are still visible and the header for the mine opening is easily accessible at the top of a large tailing pile.
The surrounding area is just beautiful and quite peaceful, but then it usually is when you go places most folks avoid.
What is left of the Gillette Hotel
Slipping down the trail
Ruby is always such a good companion; she's the 4 legged one
The old hotel had some great stone walls
That's the truck down there alone on the road
This is what's left of the town of Tip-Top
What's left of the brewery
This give an idea of how much has fallen over the years
On top of the tailings is the old mine entrance
Naturally we had to go up to the top of the tailings to see the mine
I'm standing against the head frame for scale. Note that little whit sign on my left
This is the little white sign on my left. The welcome sign
The shaft is covered but that's it right there
I have no idea what is was but it's still large
Heading down the trail
Ah,my Captain Morgan stance. Rum & tonic with a lime twist!