April 2019 update: There is a small stairway to y:11 if you leave the mining portal and turn around and head north. The north tunnel is complete all the way to -5000! Enjoy the exposed ores and easy access to the edge of the mining world. Take torches Also, a huge stairway has been created if you head straight out of the portal going south. What a beautiful job! South tunnel is complete! East tunnel is complete! Working on west tunnel next - will update when complete.