Kennecott Copper Mine Tour with City Sights Salt Lake
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required with vehicle transport
Overview
Journey into the heart of Utah’s Oquirrh Mountains with City Sights’ Kennecott Copper Mine tour. Discover massive machinery, deep history, and stunning vistas on this immersive 4-hour ride.
World's Largest Copper Mine
1:00 PM | 3.5 to 4 Hours | $119.99
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 3.5 to 4-hour adventure to the Kennecott Utah Copper Mine, the world's largest open-pit mine. Experience stunning mountain views, witness colossal mining equipment, and learn about the fascinating history of copper extraction. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore this remarkable natural wonder!
Rates
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Adults (Ages 9+) - $119.99 plus tax
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Children (Ages 2-8) - $60 plus tax
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Infants on lap - Free
Mine Entrance Fees included in price
Duration
3.5 to 4 Hours
About
- A 75-Mile Adventure ...with beautiful mountain scenery -- incredible photo opportunities! Ideal for nature and science lovers!
- Travel to the largest man-made hole on earth to experience the overlook of the world's first open-pit copper mine
- The Kennecott Utah Copper Mine, also known as the Bingham Canyon Copper Mine, is the largest and richest copper mine in history with over 110 years of open pit mining; it has produced more copper than any other mine in history!
- A hole so large that it's visible to astronauts in the space shuttle - almost a mile deep and nearly three miles wide!
- Cruise high into the Oquirrh Mountains up to 7,000 feet elevation for a spectacular view of the open-pit mine
- World's largest earth-moving trucks - the size of a two-story house
- World's largest waste-rock repositories - 6 billion tons of overburden piled high around the mine
Itinerary:
- See inside the largest and richest copper mine in history! Copper, gold, silver, and more
- Cruise along the scenic Rocky Mountains
- Breathtaking overlook - your guide will explain the entire mining operation
- Mammoth-size trucks and shovels
- Megaton explosives - detonated 2 times daily, the crater deepens!
- Possible wildlife viewing may include deer, elk, mountain goats, and a variety of birds
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
High elevation and open terrain can mean chilly winds even in summer, so dress in layers.
Stay hydrated
The dry climate and elevation call for plenty of water—pack a refillable bottle.
Wear sturdy shoes
Uneven terrain around overlooks and viewing areas requires good ankle support.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars enhance wildlife spotting and let you see mining operations in vivid detail.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Mountain goats
History
Kennecott has been actively mining since 1906 and holds the record for producing more copper than any other open-pit mine in history.
Conservation
The operation includes extensive land reclamation efforts to minimize environmental impact around the vast mine.
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Adventure Hotspots in Salt Lake City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Adjust to fluctuating temperatures and wind exposure near the mine.
Sturdy footwear
Provides stability on rocky overlooks and uneven trails.
Sunscreen and hat
Protects from strong ultraviolet rays in open mountain terrain.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances views of mining equipment and wildlife observable from a distance.