Take a narrated 3.5–4 hour tour from downtown Salt Lake City to the one-mile-deep Bingham Canyon (Kennecott) Mine. See massive trucks and shovels, learn mining history and geology, and visit engineered overlooks for safe, dramatic views of the world’s largest open-pit mine.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the tour bus and the rim opens like a carved scar in the Oquirrh Mountains — sheer benches step down into a mile-deep hole where dump trucks look like toys and electric shovels move earth like slow, deliberate tides.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, easy walks and standing at viewpoints.
Wildlife
History
Commercial mining in Bingham Canyon expanded in the early 1900s; over a century of extraction transformed the landscape into the world’s largest open-pit mine and a major copper producer.
Conservation
Modern operations include dust control, water recycling, and phased reclamation efforts; visitors should stay on paths to limit disturbance and respect ongoing remediation work.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Tour of World's Largest Copper Mine from Salt Lake City today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring sun protection
The rim is exposed; sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will make viewing stops more comfortable and protect against reflective glare.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Viewpoints have gravel and short walks — sturdy shoes protect you near industrial edges and uneven surfaces.
Arrive early for boarding
Tours board curbside in front of the Radisson downtown 10–15 minutes before departure; allow extra time for parking across the street.
Follow guide safety instructions
This is an active mine; stay behind barriers and heed guide directions to avoid restricted or hazardous areas.
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Protects feet on gravel viewpoints and short interpretive walks.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Reduces glare from exposed rock and open sky on the rim.
summer
Light wind shell
Useful for chilly or dusty wind at higher elevations and overlooks.
spring
Camera with zoom
A telephoto helps capture heavy equipment and layered geology from safe viewing distances.