Gold Panning & Underground Mine Exploration
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Port
Juneau, Alaska, US
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$89.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Relive Juneau's mining heritage on a tour of what was once the world's largest gold-producing mill.
Hear the story of this great mine that was the heartbeat of Juneau. A short ride from the pier brings you to the site of the mill ruins, where you will venture underground into the conveyer tunnel through which crushed ore was transported to the mill.
Don a hard hat and proceed on foot along a boardwalk into the 360-foot-long tunnel. Inside, experienced miners demonstrate hard rock mining techniques, giving you a feel for the mining lifestyle. Return to the mill site, constructed in 1913. The Alaska Gastineau Mill was a revolutionary plant that introduced new technologies to the mining industry. A guide will explain why this process was unique among the different kinds of mining used in Alaska. After a brief demonstration, you can pan for gold and garnets from the tailings of the mine. Pay dirt is guaranteed, and you can keep what you find. Wander among displays and the ruins. View the first locomotive to come to Alaska for mining. Visit the gift shop and museum before you return to town.
Notes:
The mine is usually cold and damp inside. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat.