The Coyote Hole was named after the den of these common animals. Miners were trying to reach the ancient, buried river channels that held rich deposits. The shafts were as deep as 100 feet. Working inside the hole was the most dangerous type of gold mining, with frequent cave-ins. The gravel, dirt and gold hauled up by windlass, were then carried to a nearby stream for washing. Imagine the task when you're down there. You only have room for a small pick to break through the hard-packed dirt, clay and rocks. It was observed that: These coyote diggings require to be very rich to pay, from the great amount of labor necessary before any pay dirt can be obtained. Accidents frequently occur from the 'caving-in' of these diggings.