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Duration: 1 hour

Overview

Explore Colorado’s mining past on the Phoenix Main Level Mine Tour and Gold Panning experience in Idaho Springs, CO. Walk through historic gold mine caverns, learn mining history, and try your hand at panning for real gold and gems.

🪨 Walk through wide, well-lit underground caverns with an expert guide
✨ See two authentic gold veins still embedded in the mine walls
🥄 Learn traditional mining and milling techniques from Colorado’s past
🛍️ Browse unique handmade keepsakes at the vintage 1950s bus gift shop

Full description

This family-friendly adventure begins with a 45-minute guided walk through spacious, well-lit caverns, making it accessible for all ages. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share stories of Colorado prospectors and demonstrate the traditional mining and milling techniques used to extract gold from the rock. Guests will even get the rare chance to see two authentic gold veins still embedded in the mine walls, a fascinating glimpse into the state’s rich past.
After exploring underground, try gold panning for yourself with the help of experienced staff. In the summer, guests can pan in a real mountain creek, while in cooler months the experience continues indoors with a year-round panning tank. Any flakes or gems discovered during the activity are yours to keep, making the day both educational and rewarding. Before leaving, stop by the quirky 1950s bus gift shop to pick up a handmade keepsake that captures the spirit of your Idaho Springs mining adventure. This tour blends history, hands-on fun, and the excitement of striking gold in the heart of the Rockies.

Availability

When do I choose a date?

After purchase, you can request your preferred dates and times by following the instructions in the email you receive. If it's a gift, the recipient will also get an email with booking instructions.

Year-Round,
Daily

Practical information

Any restrictions to participate?

  • Age: All age groups are welcome.
  • Health limitations: Not recommended for individuals with severe respiratory issues or recent surgical procedures.
  • Physical limitations: Walking required along mine cart rails; strollers permitted but may be difficult to maneuver.
  • Experience level: All levels are welcome; no prior experience required.
    Who can you accommodate for?
  • Children: Children of all ages are welcome; children under 18 must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
  • Individuals with disabilities: Some accommodations can be made; guests with wheelchairs or other needs should call the provider in advance to discuss options.
  • Languages: Tours are conducted in English.
  • Pets: Dogs are welcome if well-behaved around people and other dogs.
    What to expect on the day of the experience?
  • Duration: Minimum of 1 hour, including a 45-minute guided underground walking tour and gold panning.
  • What’s included:
  • Guided underground mine tour led by knowledgeable guides.
  • Lessons in gold panning with loaner pans provided.
  • Opportunity to pan for gold and gems outdoors in warm weather or in a tank during colder months.
  • Guests keep any gold or gems they discover.
  • Who will be present: An experienced guide will lead the tour. Other guests may join (up to 20 participants).
  • Spectators: No spectators allowed; all participants must have a ticket.
  • Photo/ video: Photos and short videos (under 30 seconds) are encouraged; tagging on social media is welcome.
  • Specific rules to follow: Parents or guardians must actively supervise minors. Guests must follow guide instructions at all times.
    How to prepare?
  • Weather dependency: Tours operate year-round; panning location varies depending on season.
  • Arrival: Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.
  • Parking: Available at 800 Trail Creek Road, Idaho Springs, CO 80452.
  • What to wear: Closed-toe shoes are required; light jackets or sweatshirts are recommended as mine temperature remains around 45°F.
  • What to bring:
  • Jacket or sweatshirt.
  • Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • In colder months, a vehicle with 4WD, AWD, or good tires is recommended due to slick road conditions.
  • Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: Restrooms are available on site.
    Anything else I should know before going on this experience?
  • Strollers with larger rubber wheels are recommended if bringing young children.
  • Gold panning is year-round, outdoors in warm months and indoors in colder months.

Returns, exchanges and cancellation

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 15 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 24 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.

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