Old Copper Mine Traditional Cache

This cache replaces one on NJ's oldest caches which was recently muggled by inconsiderates. With permission of the former cache owner. The cache is in the same copper mine ravine, just relocated, so this cache will continue.

Go Copper Mining (CU-1) GC1159 A cache by John Lambert Hidden: 7/18/2001

The Old Copper Mine was discovered by the Dutch settelers when these Watchung Mountains were a thick wilderness. The Dutch geologists knew copper was found in trap rock formations and the Watchung Mountains consisted of these type formations.

The Dutch geologists explored the area with the help of Hunters and trappers who had penetrated this vast wilderness, and guided the explorations. They were successful in discovering copper ore within these Watchung Mountains.

The Geologists report stated " In the vicinity of Feltville, located on the eastern side of the old lake bed on lands known as the Badgley estate. The bed of ore was found to be an inch thick but the deposits increased in volume as the mountain was penetrated. Inasmuch as the mine was worked for one season only, its prospective value was never determined".

It is unknown when the mining operations along the Watchung Ridge began or even an estimate of the quantity or quality of copper ore taken from the mines when in operation.

The natural conclusion is that the mining operation in Feltville discontinued because of many difficulties facing the prospectors. Methods for tunneling and removing the ore were crude. Transporting the ore from the wilderness was also a major problem, as there were only Indian trails leading to the mines through the valley. Insufficient capital was not available to furnish equipment and carry on the mining venture.

While in the Watchung Reservation be sure to visit the New Nature Science Center and the Deserted Village of Feltville.

Obtain a trail map at the visitor’s center. This cache is located on the map under Copper mine ravine. Take the white sierra trail off the yellow trail which connects to the blue trail.

Note: 2016 - This is no Longer an AMMO BOX cache hidden within the ravine.

Please take all precaution. You should not be going down any steep drop offs. There is a gradual grade to the east of the cache to easily access the ravine. This terrain many be harder to access during any wet conditions, or heavy rain which may cause the ravine to flood.

PLEASE BE CAUTIOUS OF MUGGLES HIKING ABOVE THE RAVINE AND BE CAREFUL TO REHIDE SO OTHER CAN ENJOY.

NOTE: There is a small container located at the original cache location along the ledge, with a note from the original CO. This in not the cache, Please replace and keep searching. see photo gallery