Exploring Washington State

Ghost Towns, Abandoned Mines, and the Thrill of Discovery in Washington. With Tim Nyhus

Listen on

Episode notes

Today’s guest is Tim Nyhus, a passionate explorer uncovering the hidden treasures of ghost towns and abandoned mines across the state.


Episode Highlights

  • A Journey into Washington’s Forgotten Past
  • Tim shares how his love for history and family road trips inspired him to explore ghost towns and mines, starting with the abandoned coal town of Melmont in 2009. Hear about his first-hand experiences uncovering these historical gems and how a simple hike sparked a lifelong passion.
  • Building a Community of Explorers
  • From sharing photos on Facebook to creating videos for YouTube, Tim discusses how his adventures evolved into a platform that connects history enthusiasts. He reflects on how technology and storytelling have played a role in preserving and sharing Washington’s forgotten landmarks.
  • Exploration Tips for Beginners
  • Interested in visiting a ghost town? Tim offers beginner-friendly tips for exploring these historical sites, including how to find publicly accessible locations and plan safe, enjoyable trips.
  • Challenges of Abandoned Mines
  • Learn about the risks and rewards of mine exploration, including the incredible story of Tim’s harrowing entry into a collapsed 1890s mine. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and respecting the history and fragility of these sites.
  • Why Documentation Matters
  • Tim explains his mission to preserve the legacy of Washington’s ghost towns and mines, ensuring future generations can learn about these significant landmarks before they disappear.


What’s Next for Tim’s Adventures?

Tim teases upcoming explorations, including a private mine visit in the Okanogan area and more trips to Washington’s lesser-known ghost towns. Stay tuned for incredible stories of perseverance, history, and discovery.


Where to Follow Tim’s Journey

Explore more of Tim’s work and connect with his community:


Support the Show

Enjoying the podcast? Share this episode with friends and family! You can also follow us on Twitter @explorewastate or visit our website at explorewashingtonstate.com. Your word-of-mouth support helps us grow and share these stories with more listeners.

Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you next time for another exploration of Washington’s unique stories!