Black Light Mine Tour & Day Package at Emerald Village, NC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with mostly walking and light manual activity
Overview
At Emerald Village in Spruce Pine, experience hands-on mining paired with a rare black light mine tour revealing vibrant, glowing minerals unique to North Carolina’s Blue Ridge. This day package delivers history, geology, and adventure for all ages.
Adventure Tips
Reserve Tickets for Seasonal Black Light Tours
The black light mine tours run seasonally and often require advance booking to secure your spot.
Wear Comfortable Clothes for Mining
Dress casually with sturdy shoes as you’ll be sifting through dirt and rocks with hand tools.
Bring a Camera for Fluorescent Minerals
Photography under UV light is tricky, so a camera with manual settings helps capture the glowing minerals vividly.
Plan for At Least Half a Day
Between museum visits, mining, and the black light tour, set aside 3-4 hours to fully experience Emerald Village.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- fireflies (visible during summer evenings)
- various woodland songbirds
History
Spruce Pine has long been a hub of gem and mineral mining, contributing to North Carolina’s reputation as a source of rare fluorescent minerals.
Conservation
Emerald Village promotes low-impact outdoor activity and educates visitors on preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Appalachian mining regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect your feet while sifting through mining material and walking on uneven surfaces.
UV Flashlight
Enhance the black light experience and see fluorescent minerals glow outside the tour.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities in warm weather.
summer specific
Light Jacket
Helpful for cool weather during outdoor mining or evening tours.
spring|fall specific