Abstract: In a method of open pit mining, a tunnel or tunnels are driven into one or more seams of minerals to be mined or in the surrounding rock, and draw shafts are formed between and connecting the earth's surface and tunnels. A bulk transport or conveyor system is installed in the tunnel or tunnels to remove material passed down the shafts to the surface. Overburden is removed such that the minerals are accessible on the surface adjacent the shafts. The minerals are then deposited into the shafts and transported by the bulk transport conveyor system to a storage area external of the pit. The overburden can also be deposited into the shafts for removal from the pit. The land to be mined is preferably divided into a substantial rectilinear grid pattern or formation, and a draw shaft is formed in each of the elemental areas of the grid pattern.