The McCrackin mine was discovered on August 17, 1874 by Jackson McCrackin. The mine is located near the top of a mountain range just west of the Alamo lake and the Signal road junction.
The ore vein averaged 35 feet in width and contained free milling silver ore. The assays showed values anywhere from $60 to $600 per ton. The photo shows the foundations to what was once a 20 ton mill. Within six years, the mine had produced over six million dollars worth of silver. Located on the same ledge was the Signal mine which had a 10 ton mill.
The road up to the McCrackin mine is recommended for 4WD only. The lower section is in fair shape but the upper section requires some "rock climbing" by the vehicle used. You can park just below the mine and walk the short distance to the workings. Be careful around the mine as there are many open shafts. There are remnants of rock-walled buildings on a low hill overlooking the mill site. I have found some coins dating from the 1920's here along with a very old opium-style bottle that was almost buried by more recent mining. The mine may be closed as there is a gate but was open a couple of years ago.
Back on the main road to Alamo lake, I saw the only mountain lion that I have seen in the wild. It was coming down the side of a wash and turned around when I slammed on the brakes to get a better look. It did not seem much interested in me but I was impressed.