Phoenix Gold Mine Tour & Panning in Idaho Springs, CO
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes to 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking on uneven surfaces and standing during the tour.
Overview
Uncover Colorado’s mining history with an underground mine tour followed by hands-on gold panning in the scenic Idaho Springs area. Keep any treasures you find!
Phoenix Main Level Mine Tour & Gold Panning
Minimum 1 Hour • All ages • Underground Gold Mine Tour & Gold Panning
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a thrilling 45-minute underground tour at the Phoenix Gold Mine, where you'll explore well-lit caverns and discover gleaming gold veins. Learn about Colorado's mining history, then try your hand at gold panning in a mountain creek or underground. Keep your treasures and visit the charming 1950's Bus Gift Shop!
Experience a real gold mine! We're here to show you the GOLD!
Mine Tour & Gold Panning Duration
Underground Gold Mine Tours last about 45 minutes - 1 hour. Gold Panning lessons take about 10 - 15 minutes. Then, pan for gold as long as you would like while we're open!
About
Embark on a fascinating 45-minute underground adventure! Our easy walking tour, perfect for all ages and abilities, covers less than 500 feet and features no stairs. Knowledgeable and entertaining guides will lead you through our wide, well-lit caverns where you'll witness two gleaming gold veins! Immerse yourself in Colorado's rich history as you learn about the thrilling tales of prospectors, miners. Witness firsthand the historic mining and milling processes used to extract this precious metal from the rock. Don't miss this captivating journey into the heart of Colorado's mining heritage!
After your gold mine tour, learn how to pan for gold and have a go at it yourself! We provide gold panning lessons with our experienced staff and loan each guest a gold pan to use. During warm weather months, pan for gold in a real, gently flowing mountain creek! Many have found pieces of glimmering gold and gems. During cold weather, pan for gold underground in our gold panning tank. Many have found gold and other gems in both settings. Most importantly, keep what you find!
Don't forget to stop by our 1950's Bus Gift Shop to checkout our affordable, handmade, keepsake, remembering your adventures at the Phoenix Gold Mine!
What to Bring
A light jacket or sweatshirt and closed-toed shoes are recommended as the mine is typically 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, bring water shoes if you want to go into the creek to gold pan. Standing on the side of the creek is fine too!
Hours of Operation
Summer Hours: Memorial Day Weekend – Labor Day Weekend 10:00am to 5:00pm (The last tour starts at 4:30PM on weekdays and 5:00PM on weekends.)
Winter Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday - 12:00pm to 5:00pm (The last tour starts at 4:00PM.) Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday - 10:00am to 5:00pm (The last tour starts at 4:00PM.)
Special Accommodations
Call us to see how we can meet your party's needs!
Disclaimer
This option does not include the Train Ride and Centurion Level Tour! If you are interested in touring both mine levels, consider our Mother Lode Combo.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
The mine tunnels can be slippery and uneven, so proper footwear is important for safety.
Bring a light jacket
Underground temperatures remain cool year-round, so layering is helpful for comfort.
Arrive early for best time slots
Tours can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so booking in advance is recommended.
Keep children supervised during panning
The creek and sluice areas require careful attention to avoid slips or falls.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Mountain bluebirds
History
Phoenix Gold Mine has been operating since the late 1800s, making it one of Colorado’s oldest continuously running gold mines.
Conservation
The mine implements sustainable practices to protect local waterways and ecosystems while educating visitors on environmental stewardship.
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Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Ensures good traction and foot protection on uneven and slippery mine surfaces.
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool underground environment.
spring specific
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects you during outdoor gold panning under direct sunlight.
summer specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated especially during warmer months when outside.