In the heart of the Red Mountain Mining District, there are mines dotted all over this trail. Some are famous, while others were mere blips in an exercise of futility of those seeking to make a fortune during the silver boom that lasted from 1882 to 1893. The boom commenced right on this trail in 1882, where you can visit the famous Yankee Girl Mine. Yesteryears mining exploits are responsible for all of the roads in this area and U.S. Basin, also known as Red Mountain Pass, packs in the history, but also the amazing views of the San Juan Mountains, which some call the Switzerland of America