I’ll be honest with you guys: I’m not exactly a "mine guy."
Most people see a dark, gaping hole in the earth and think adventure. I see it and think about the lack of oxygen, the structural integrity of 150-year-old Timbers, and—as it turns out—bats. But there I was, out past Ancho, New Mexico, pulling the Jeep up to a spot that already had a heavy reputation for being "active" (and I don’t just mean the ghosts).
The House That Shingled Itself Shut
Before I lost my nerve with the mines, I found this bizarre little homestead. It was a shingled building where even the door had been shingled over—talk about wanting privacy. Inside, it was like a time capsule from a very specific, very strange life. There was a refrigerator built directly into the wall and a silverware drawer still sitting there, though the only things using it now are the rats.
Walking through these places, you can’t help but wonder: Who was the last person to close that door? And why did they leave a tiny shoe behind? ### The Moment I Almost Called it Quits I eventually found a shaft I felt "okay" about entering. The air was thick, the flies were everywhere (not a great sign), and the silence was heavy. Then, I saw it: a dead hawk, just lying there in the dark. If that isn't a "turn back now" omen, I don't know what is.
I kept going anyway—for the shot, for the experience, for you guys—and that’s when I headbutted a bat.
Yes, you read that right. In the pitch black, something flapped, I moved, and smack. I don't care how "tough" you think you are; when a bat hits you in the face in an abandoned mine at 2:00 AM, you're going to move fast. I was out of there in seconds.
Why I Keep Doing This
People ask me why I spend my Friday nights sleeping in a Jeep next to a mine where "skinwalker" stories are the local currency.
It’s simple: I hate stagnation. I spent too much of my life in the "work, home, couch" cycle, and it was killing my mental health. Even when I’m scared, even when I’m headbutting bats or touching mouse poop by accident (yeah, that happened too), I feel alive. I’m in pursuit of something.
The Quietest Morning in the World
After a night of testing out some new infrared gear and jumping at every shadow, the sun finally broke over the New Mexico horizon. It was one of the quietest spots I’ve ever stayed in. No wind, just the distant light of the wind farms and the desert waking up.
I might not be a "mine guy" yet, and I’m definitely a bit of a scaredy-cat, but I’m going to keep chasing these dreams. Because a night of being spooked is still better than a lifetime of being bored.
Watch the Full Adventure
If you want to see the moment I headbutt a bat (and the creepy "fridge-in-the-wall" house), check out the full video below. I’m pushing hard to reach 10,000 subscribers by April, so if you enjoy the vibes and the "Paranormal Cowboy" life, hit that subscribe button and come along for the ride.
https://youtu.be/OcTtoXIe41k