The Hanging Flume: An engineering feat of the past

The Hanging Flume is a historic engineering marvel built in the late 1800s to convey water from the San Miguel River to gold mines in the Dolores area. The impressive structure hangs off a sheer cliff face, 100 feet above the Dolores River. The Flume is a testament to human ingenuity and tenacity, as it required overcoming many challenges including harsh terrain, extreme weather, and limited resources. I was fascinated by the intricate network of wooden channels and flumes that spanned over 10 miles. I also learned about the rich history of mining in the area and how it shaped the local culture. Overall, visiting the Hanging Flume was a truly unique experience that expanded my understanding of human accomplishments.