Log Cabin Mine
I never knew this road or mine existed near Lee Vining, CA. Very pretty aspen-lined drive up the long ascent, interesting old stuff at the mine. Miners were really good at making a real mess of stuff which is interesting to photograph. A deep shaft goes straight down into what seems to be a deep moraine or rock and dirt (not bedrock). There is mercury contamination, so maybe they found some gold to extract. Or maybe they were just hopeful, because AFAIK nothing panned out, leaving the surrounding area relatively pristine.
While the sign writer seems oblivious, a helpful visitor has scrawled a note that duly points out “citizens of the United States”. But these days that is just lip service. Hope springs eternal.