Utah is home to some incredible natural wonders, but did you know it’s also home to the world’s largest human-made hole? Yep, we’re talking about the Kennecott Copper Mine in Bingham Canyon, just outside Salt Lake City. Here’s everything you need to know about this massive, awe-inspiring excavation. The mine has been in production since 1906. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966.

Mind-Blowing Size & Depth

  • 2.5 miles wide and 0.75 miles deep (that’s close to a mile deep!)
  • Covers a jaw-dropping 1,900 acres.
  • The vertical distance from the bottom to the rim is double the height of One World Trade Center.
  • Over 500 miles of roads inside the pit.
  • Visible from space! Astronauts have reported seeing this giant hole from the space shuttle.
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What is the Kennecott Copper Mine?

  • Located in the Oquirrh Mountains, southwest of Salt Lake City.
  • The largest human-made excavation on Earth.
  • The deepest open-pit mine in the world!
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What Does It Produce?

This mine isn’t just famous for its size—it’s also incredibly productive:

  • More copper than any other mine in history.
  • Produces gold, silver, and molybdenum too.
  • It’s the second-largest copper producer in the United States.

Want to check it out in person? You can! Self-guided tours are available from April to October (weather permitting.) You can check out the exhibits that highlight the mine's history and operations. If it's during the off-season, you can still take a virtual tour. Utah’s Kennecott Copper Mine is more than just a massive hole—it’s a piece of history, a feat of engineering, and a must-see for anyone visiting the Salt Lake City area.

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