Underground Mine Exploration & Gold Panning

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

You'll depart your ship for the short ride to the historic remains of the Alaska Gastineau Mill. Constructed in 1913, the revolutionary plant was instrumental in introducing new technologies to the mining industry. Your driver will set the stage as you make your way through the rainforest and the dramatic ride up Mount Roberts.

Now it's time to put on your hard hat and venture underground into the conveyer tunnel. This is the same pathway that took the crushed ore to the mill. Make sure you've dressed for the temperature change; the mine tunnel averages 36 degrees F. You'll then proceed along a boardwalk into the 360-foot-long tunnel. Once inside, experienced miners will operate some mining equipment, showing you how they get the gold out of the hard rock, as well as give you a feel for the mining lifestyle. Outside the mouth of the tunnel, you will find spectacular vistas and photo opportunities of Gastineau Channel and Douglas Island.

No doubt, you may come back with a little "gold fever" of your own. You'll return to the mill site, where after a brief demonstration, you'll have the chance to pan for gold and garnets from the tailings of the mine. Pay dirt is guaranteed and you get to keep what you find. See the historic Peterson Mine 3-stamp mill rescued from the ruins and restored to working order. This stamp mill ran from 1906 to 1926 and is now the only one in operation in southeast Alaska. A gold wheel and a sluice box gold recovery system will also be featured illustrating the entire extraction process of gold from hard rock.

Then, feel free to wander among displays, illustrating the different mining methods and old equipment. Explore the old mill ruins, assayer's office and the gift shop before re-boarding your transport. Your driver will bring you up to date on the mining industry's current role in Juneau as you make your way back to town, richer for the day's experience.

Special Notes:

Dress warmly for the underground portion of the tour.

Provided: Hard hat, guaranteed gold/garnet, hot beverage

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.