The first mining in Røros’ northern mine district
(Nordgruvefelt)dates back to 1657 at
Arvedalsgruva. This was located around where the old flotation
works stands by the parking
place near Kongens mine. In 1736 another ore deposit was found and
Kronprinds Frederiks
Mine was opened, 10 years later to be called “Kongens” Mine.
Groundwater caused major problems for mining in the early days and
different methods
were needed to pump it out. In 1769 a water wheel was built near
the mine to provide
movement for a pumping system. Models of the pumping system can be
seen at the
Smelting Museum in Røros.
To provide water for the wheel, a 3,5 kilometer long aqueduct was
constructed from
Storfjellsjø lake and to the water wheel. The lake was dammed up
with 2 extra meters
to provide enough water. The aqueduct constructed over 3,5
kilometers only had 3,5
meter fall height! Near the start of the aqueduct a steep ridge
posed a problem,
and the aqueduct was first constructed around the edges. For some
reason this
was not satisfactory, and a tunnel was dug for the aqueduct.
Near this cache, the tunnel can be observed and is approximately 60
meters long.
The southwestern opening is still in good shape and you can observe
the wooden
structures which held the wood pipe or water trough.
The northeastern opening is partially collapsed.
Entering the tunnel should be considered highly hazardous
and is not advised!
To get to this spot you need to drive to “Nordgruvefeltet” along a
toll road.
Parking is at N62 40.253 E011 19.307
From the parking you can walk or bicycle approximately 2 km along a
private road.
(please don’t drive on this road).
At N62 41.614 E011 18.080 a tractor trail goes up towards Fjellsjø
mine
which also cross the aqueduct near the tunnel.
The total distance of the trip is approximately 6 km round
trip.
The cache contains:
Log book & pencil
Parachute bunny
Kids pencil, eraser, & sharpener
Ball