Mica Mine

The hike to this location is about 3 hours long. The trail is a snowmobile and atv trail. You could also ride your bike. I took my atv here and the ride here was amazing. As you get closer to the mine you will see lots of Mica on the trail. The Mica peels off the rock in your hand very easily. Operated from 1941-1945 and 1949-53 three million pounds of mica were mined at a value of $1,577,000. Micas are used in products such as drywalls, paints, fillers, especially in parts for automobiles, roofing and shingles, as well as in electronics. The mineral is used in cosmetics and food to add "shimmer" or "frost. Mica was also used in the fabrication of toasters and shades for lanterns. During peak periods upwards of 50 men were employed at the mine and worked 6 days a week. Dozens of women worked in the sorting plant in Mattawa and later in a second plant in North Bay. The mine had its own bunk house, dining room, office, etc. I don’t think any of the structures are here any longer. \n \n Several pieces of mica were of museum quality and brought high prices. Mattawa mica is on display in New York, the royal Ontario Museum and the Mattawa Museum. John Laframboise, a miner who worked at the mattawan site is featured as a part of the display.

Source: https://www.pastforward.ca/perspectives/june_132003.htm

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