Iron Mountain, Michigan is is exactly what the name says, an "Iron" mountain. Not so much anymore, nearly 100 yrs ago they mined this whole area into what it is today. During a time when they were closing up many mine shafts that were found, some firemen decided to go spelunking in an old mine shaft on top of Mille Hill.

It was during one of the last times down, they discovered a bat colony living there. As it turns out, this cave/shaft has one of the largest bat populations in the world. Immediately things were done to protect them.

This cage was put over the top to keep people safe and also to protect the bats. The shaft drops straight down about 15 feet, then goes down at an angle 1,000's of feet. During the spring and fall, you can watch the bats come and go in the evening and in the morning.

Over 50 some mines were in operation in this area, making many places dangerous if you don't know where NOT to go. Over this summer, I will be posting stories about area mines and the dangers that still exist for people.