copper mine tours near me

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Copper Mine Tours

Copper mine tours.

Our copper mines tell the stories of the brave men and women who traveled from around the world to seek wealth and prosperity during the copper booms of the late 1800s and early 1900s!

The first mineral boom in the United States occurred in 1843 when people from all over the continent began to chase the copper, silver and iron of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. These mines were in commercial operation for more than a hundred years.

The first copper mine opened in 1771, and its owner, Alexander Henry, sent the massive Ontonagon Boulder–of pure native copper–to Detroit as evidence of the region’s richness. But speculative activity did not begin in earnest until 1841, hastened by the favorable reports of the first state geologist, Douglas Houghton. These reports, combined with publicity given the Ontonagon Boulder, sparked the first mineral rush in the nation, predating by several years the more famous California gold rush. Between 1843 and 1846, thousands of prospectors arrived from the East with the hope of “striking it rich.”

These events brought a rush of copper-seeking prospectors into the Upper Peninsula in the early 1840s. Copper mining has been almost continuous in the Keweenaw Peninsula area for the 150 years since then. During that time over  12 billion pounds of native copper have been mined .*

Today, visitors are still enthralled by the passion and perseverance of the men and women who toiled deep below the surface to extract copper ore. Their stories, both hardships and triumphs, can be experienced through tours of the mines that generated incredible wealth and industry.

KEWEENAW COPPER MINE TOURS

Check out these popular mine tours to experience a piece of the Keweenaw’s history: See how the mines operated, how technology changed over time, and the conditions laborers experienced during the mining process. And don’t forget to take a little bit of copper with you!

THE HISTORIC QUINCY MINE

America’s first mining boom began as prospectors and speculators rushed to mine deposits of native copper along the Keweenaw Peninsula. For 99 years Quincy mined these deposits and its impressive string of dividends earned it the name of “Old Reliable”. Today, the Quincy Mine Hoist Association offers tours of this National Historic Landmark.

Regularly scheduled tours are available throughout the summer. Tours are also available during the winter, but on a less frequent schedule or by appointment. Reservations are highly recommended during the summer, as tour slots fill up quickly. Make a tour reservation or learn more by visiting the Quincy Mine website.   Tours at Quincy are a unique experience. A cogwheel tram will take you underground into the 43°F mine. While our native-born guides find that temperature refreshing, visitors may want to bring a windbreaker or light sweatshirt. Suitable shoes for walking are recommended for graveled/wet surfaces–sandals, flip-flops or other open-toe footwear are not advisable. All parts of the tour are fully accessible, but but be sure to make reservations in advance to ensure availability of guides. 

QUINCY SMELTER 

The Quincy Mining Company built the Quincy Smelting Works on the banks of the Portage Canal in 1898. Quincy constructed the smelter to refine and ship its own copper, as well as to accept custom work from neighboring mining operations. With the decline of the industry after World War II, however, the local sources of profitable copper diminished to the point that it no longer made sense to keep the facility open. Quincy closed the smelter in 1971. Seasonal Tours are also available of the Quincy Smelting Works, located on the waterfront of the Portage Canal! Find more information here or call 906-482-3101. 

THE DELAWARE MINE

The Delaware Mine  is an authentic mine that operated from 1847 until 1887, during the country’s first major mining boom. The mine was supported by a group of investors, including Horace Greeley. Although the mine didn’t make any money for its investors, it now serves as the perfect example of what the mines in this area were like in the 1800s. Visitors walk down 100 feet of stairs through the #1 shaft to the first level of the mine, then walk approximately 1700 feet through the original workings to experience a self-guided tour. 

THE PAINESDALE MINE & SHAFT

Champion #4 Shaft House in Painesdale  was built in 1902 as part of the Copper Range Mining Co. mines that ran from Atlantic Mine to Painesdale, MI. Champion #4 operated for nearly 65 years before closing in 1967.  Tours can be arranged to view the inside of the shaft house, hoist house, and the Captain’s office. Champion #4 Shaft House offers free tours by appointment. 

A group tour of the world’s largest steam hoist located at the Historic Quincy Mine

THE ADVENTURE MINE

A walk through the  Adventure Mine  provides the opportunity to experience copper mining as it truly was in the 1800s. View the world’s greatest copper district — actually traversing underground wearing a simple hardhat with a headlamp to light your way. Four distinct tours are offered: a 45-minute underground walk, a one-hour-and-20-minute underground hike, a three-hour underground tour that includes rappelling down an 80′ shaft, and a six-hour-long excursion to the second level of the mine with lunch underground included (advanced reservations required for the six-hour tour). .

MORE MINING HISTORY TO EXPLORE

• Keweenaw National Historic Park
• Ghost Towns of the Copper Country
• Coppertown Mining Museum
• Carnegie Museum

*Source:  Michigan’s Copper Deposits and Mining  

Museums & History

Tens of thousands of immigrants from Finland, Cornwall and other European countries “went West” to Michigan’s northernmost peninsula to seek their…

12732 Bacchus Hwy. Herriman, UT 84096

Kennecott Copper Mine

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Join Rio Tinto Kennecott for the Visitor Experience at Bingham Canyon Mine.

Rio Tinto Kennecott | Photo Gallery

Rio Tinto Kennecott

Rio Tinto Kennecott Visitor Experience  

The Rio Tinto Kennecott Visitor Experience is dedicated to educating the public about Kennecott's key role in modern life, safe mining practices, and responsible environmental stewardship. Learn about our history and see first-hand the gigantic scale of our operation, vehicles, and artifacts. Discover how ore gets processed and refined to become 99.99% copper, an essential element in today’s infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology.

Our Kennecott mine has operated for 120 years, providing domestically -sourced copper to the United States and beyond. As we look towards the energy transition, Kennecott will continue to play an important role by responsibly mining and smelting this critical mineral for our electric vehicles, our renewable energy, and numerous other vital applications.

Reservations

Tickets are $6 each and children under the age of five are free. All proceeds will be generously donated to the Kennecott Charitable Foundation.

Tickets should be purchased in advance. Walk-up visitors run the risk of not being able to visit the mine overlook if they are at capacity that day. Walk-up visitors will need to use a credit card to complete an onsite ticket purchase. Cash transactions are not available at the Visitor Experience.

Kennecott Charitable Foundation

The Kennecott Charitable Foundation is a Utah-based charitable organization committed to positively impacting Utah residents and the community since its inception in 1992. This includes supporting charities and non-profits that assist vulnerable populations in the Salt Lake region. The Foundation raises money for worthy organizations through tax-deductible entrance fees to the Kennecott Visitor Experience. The Bingham Canyon Lions Club contributes additional funds to the Foundation from items sold at the Gift Shop.

Bingham Canyon Lions Gift Shop, located in the Lark visitor parking area, sells an assortment of items. From copper jewelry and trinkets to educational excavation kits, visitors of all ages are sure to find something special to take home with them. While there is a vending machine available with drinks, food is not available for purchase.

Safety Policies  

Safety is essential to everything they do at Kennecott - and your safety is their number one priority when visiting the Bingham Canyon Mine. They are committed to protecting the health and safety of all our employees and visitors. All safety rules and policies must be followed.

• Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
• You must use the shuttle services to visit the overlook
• Children and adults must wear a seat belt while on the shuttle – car/booster seats are not required, and infants may be held in arms during travel
• Stay inside the designated visitor area (always fenced or otherwise)
• Use of drugs, alcohol or smoking/vaping are strictly prohibited
• Firearms, knives, and other weapons are prohibited on all Rio Tinto Kennecott property
• Unauthorized use of drones or professional photography are prohibited on all property

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ASARCO MINERAL DISCOVERY CENTER & MINE TOURS

Copper is at the source of our modern society. It’s a primary metal used in the hospitals where we were born, the electricity in our homes, the tools that farm our food, and the transportation that powers our next adventure.

Fun fact: Copper is also naturally found in us and helps make red blood cells and keeps immune systems healthy.

We invite you to take our free self-guided tour of the center’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, which walks through the copper transformation process. Then join the mine tour for a firsthand look! Afterward, peruse the Company Store for unique and educational gifts.

Our Vision Since 1997

Since we opened our doors in 1997, the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours’ vision has been to educate communities on the vital importance of the copper mining industry to our civilization, to educate students and teachers in earth sciences, and to preserve Arizona’s mining history.

In addition to our offerings to the public, we proudly support Arizona schools by providing free transportation to the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center and free mine tours to students.

Free Self-Guided Center Tour

Summer hours (may through september).

FREE self-guided center tour and gift shop Wednesday – Sunday, from 9 am – 3 pm Closed major holidays

WINTER HOURS (OCTOBER THROUGH APRIL)

FREE self-guided center tour and gift shop Wednesday – Sunday, from 9 am – 5 pm Closed major holidays s

TICKETED MINE TOUR* (Length of tour is approximately 65 minutes.)

SAFETY FIRST: Closed-toed shoes (tennis shoes, boots, etc.) are required for the mine tour. NO Crocs, flip-flops or sandals are allowed.

Thursday – Sunday – See winter hours Ticketed mine tour at 9:30 am, 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:00 pm (Reservation are highly recommended. Please call to book.) Closed major holidays

Wednesday – Sunday Ticketed mine tour at 9:30 am, 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:00 pm (Reservation are highly recommended. Please call to book.) Closed major holidays

*Disclaimer: MINES ARE INHERENTLY RISKY PLACES. BY OBTAINING A MINE TOUR TICKET (INCLUDING FREE ONES), YOU ARE ASSUMING THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.  ASARCO LLC DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY.  PLEASE EXERCISE CAUTION AT ALL TIMES.

MINE TOUR PRICES

Seniors (62° years) and active military, children (5-12 years), children (0-4 years), green valley and sahuarita residents $1 off the tour with proof of residency., special instructions for the mine tour.

• Closed-toed shoes are required to take the tour. No Crocs, sandals, or flip-flops will be allowed.
• We suggest bringing a water bottle (filtered water station is available in the Center).
• Please dress comfortably.

PHONE NUMBER & ADDRESS

+1 (520) 625-8233 1421 West Pima Mine Road Sahuarita, Arizona 85629

Follow us on Facebook for updates about the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours

We are open for public mine tours. Book yours today!

Please call-in advance to reserve. phone: +1 (520) 625-8233, friendly reminder: closed-toed shoes (tennis shoes, boots, etc.) are required for the mine tour. no crocs, flip-flops or sandals will be allowed. the center will be closed easter sunday, march 31, 2024..

arizona mine tours & mining museums

Have you ever witnessed the grandeur of a modern operating mine site? If not, you’re in for a treat as Arizona boasts one of the few public mine tours of an operating mine in the country at the ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours.

If you’re intrigued by the natural treasures and history of Arizona, you’ll be delighted to explore the vast collection of minerals and gems found in the state. Furthermore, you’ll be amazed to discover how crucial copper is to the state of Arizona and our society. Several mining museums throughout the state offer a captivating adventure to explore mining, our natural history past, and the possibilities for the future, making sightseeing a perfect educational and fun experience for all ages.

Arizona Mining History & Importance of Copper

Arizona Capitol Museum , Downtown Phoenix

History Mining Museums and Exhibits  

Northern arizona (listed by location – north to south)  .

Copper Art Museum, Clarkdale  

Gold King Mining Museum in Jerome  

Jerome Mine Museum, Jerome  

Cave Creek Museum , Cave Creek  

Desert Caballeros Western Museum in Wickenburg  

River of Time Museum, Fountain Hills  

Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum, Apache Junction  

Southern Arizona (listed by location – north to south)

Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum in Miami  

Greenlee Historical Museum in Clifton  

Museum of Casa Grande, Casa Grande  

Arizona History Museum,  Tucson  

Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, Bisbee  

Castle Domes Mines Museum in Yuma  

Gem and Minerals and Natural History  

University of Arizona Alfie Norville Gem & Minerals Museum, Tucson  

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson  

Modern Mining Museum & Mine Tours

Asarco mineral discovery center & mine tours arizona's only public tour of an operating mine.

Copper is at the source of our modern society. It’s a primary metal used in the hospitals where we were born, the electricity in our homes, the tools that farm our food, and the transportation that powers our next adventure.

Fun fact:  Copper is also naturally found in us and helps make red blood cells and keeps immune systems healthy.

We invite you to take ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center’s free self-guided tour of the center’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, which walks through the copper transformation process. Then join the mine tour for a firsthand look! Afterward, peruse the Company Store for unique and educational gifts.

Mine Tour Schedule

• Year-round: Wednesday through Sunday. Tour schedule is subject to change.
• Please call in advance to reserve (520) 625-8233
• Closed-toed shoes (tennis shoes, boots, etc.) are required for the mine tour. No Crocs, flip flops or sandals will be allowed.
• Call to reserve a tour time
• ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours is 12 miles south of Tucson on Interstate 19 at Pima Mine Road (Exit 80). 1421 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, AZ 85629.

mine overlooks

Freeport-mcmoran morenci mine mine overlook.

Located in eastern Arizona about an hour drive northeast of Safford on the scenic Coronado Trail, this site provides a spectacular view of Arizona’s largest mining operation.

• The overlook is about five miles north of the town of Morenci on Highway 191.

ASARCO Ray Mine mine overlook

Approximately 85 miles east of Phoenix is the ASARCO-owned Ray mine, and a major Arizona copper producer. Mining operations and equipment may be viewed from the road.

• The operation is visible from approximately 12 miles south of Superior on Highway 177.

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ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours

ASARCO Mineral Discovery Center & Mine Tours 1421 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 520-625-8233 asarco.com/discoverycenter/

We invite you to take our free self-guided tour of the center’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, which walk through the copper transformation process. Then join Arizona’s only tour of an operating mine ($) for a firsthand look! Afterward, peruse the Company Store for unique and educational gifts.

Advance reservations for mine tours are highly recommended.

Operating Hours

Summer “On Pause”

FREE self-guided center tour and gift shop Wednesday – Sunday, from 9 am – 4 pm Closed major holidays

Wednesday – Sunday (Winter Schedule)

Ticketed mine tour at 9:30 am, 11:15 am, 1:15 pm, 3:00 pm (Reservation are highly recommended. Please call to book.) Closed major holidays

See Website for details.

Mining Museums and Tours

Date: August 29, 2016

Last Updated on November 17, 2023

There are opportunities all over the country to visit mines and mining museums and learn more about U.S. mining. The following lists information on mining tours and museums in the United States and Canada.

If you have information on a mining tour, museum or other educational resource that you would like to share contact: Ashley Burke, (202) 463-2642, [email protected]

Usibelli Coal Mine Healy, Alaska

Tours are available during summer months by appointment. For tour information, call 907-683-2226.

This giant mine along the Nenana River feeds six power plants in Interior Alaska and ships 750,000 tons of coal down the Alaska Railroad to Seward.

Information on Mining Tours in Alaska

This page lists many of the exciting tours offered in Alaska. It also includes phone numbers for more information and admission costs.

Arizona Mining and Mineral Museum 1502 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 602-255-3791

Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm., Sat, 11am-4pm.

Free Admission Extensive collection of mineral specimens. Historic headframe and mine train.

Asarco Mineral Discovery Center  1421 W Pima Mine Road Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520) 625-7513

Tues-Sat, 9am-5pm

Open Pit Mine & mill tour rates: Adults $6; Children $4

No charge to the Mineral Discovery Center exhibits & theater. Open-pit mine & mill tours available, exhibits on geology, mining & uses of minerals; historic & present-day mining equipment, view videos, gift shop.

Copper Queen Mine Underground Tour 118 Arizona Street Bisbee, AZ 85603 (520) 432-2071 1-866-432-2071

Daily tours: 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 2:00, 3:30, Adults: $8.00 Youth (7-11): $3.50 Children (3-6) : $2.00 Children under 3 : free

Explore one of the oldest copper mines in Arizona. Former miners show how turn-of-the-century mines were operated. Avg. temperature in mine 47 degrees.

Copper Queen Mine Tours B  (Historic District and Surface Mine Tours) 118 Arizona Street Bisbee, AZ 85603 (520) 432-2071 1-866-432-2071

Daily tours: 10:30am, noon, 2pm, 3:30 pm Tour Price: $7.00, children under 3 are free.

This is a narrated van tour that takes you to the leaching plant, mine shafts, atop dumps, around the perimeter of the pit, and through the city as turn-of-the-century architecture.

Phelps Dodge Bagdad Contact: Bob Delgado at 928-633-3490

Phelps Dodge arranges tours for individuals and groups.

U.S. Borax 14486 Borax Road Boron, CA 93516 (760) 762-7588

U.S. Borax has a Visitor Center that overlooks its active boron mine, the largest open pit mine in California. The visitor center is free and open seven days a week (excluding major holidays) from 9-5. Parking is also free and accessible to RVs.

Estevan Mine For more information contact: Estevan Tourism (306) 634-6044

Free tour, please call 306-643-6044 for more information. The Shand Power Plant provides a free guided mine / power plant tour. The mine runs two tours daily, in the morning and the afternoon. The tours can accommodate groups of twelve.

The #2 Mine Tour and Museum

Bell Island #2 Mine and Community Museum, 13 Compressor Hill, Bell Island, NL A0A 4H0

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, June 1 to September 30

Tel: 709-488-2880 Toll Free: 1-888-338-2880

Lebanon Mine 1106 Rost St. Georgetown, CO

1-800-691-4FUN 303-569-2403 (Accessible only aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad)

9:20-4pm Daily Adults $6 for mine tour plus $14.40 for train. Children 3-15 are $4 plus $9.50 for train. The mine tour is available via the Georgetown Loop Railroad except the last departure of the day.

National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum   120 W. 9th St. Leadville, CO 719-486-1229

Summer (May-October): 9-5, daily Winter (November-April): 9-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Adults: $10 Seniors (65+): $9 Students (6+, college students included): $8 Children under six: Free.

Converted school offers 12 rooms of displays, models, mine replicas, historic photographs and other mining treasures. Spectacular mineral collection.

Old Hundred Mine  PO Box 430 Silverton, CO 81433 1-800-872-3009

Daily tours: 10am-4pm. Adults: $13.95 Children (5-12): $6.95 Under 5 (held on lap): Free Seniors (60+): $12.95

Children on tour can pan free for silver and gold in Old Hundred sluice box. Tours run about 55 minutes. Picnic area, snacks and gift shop.

Western Museum of Mining & Industry  225 North Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 488-0880

Mon-Sat: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults: $9 Military/AAA: $8 Students: $7 Children (4-12): $5 3 and under: free with paid adult Museum Members: free

Museum collects, restores and display mining artifacts. Actual operation of steam engines, drills, pumps and other mining equipment. Four museum buildings and outdoor displays.

Dahlonega Gold Museum 1 Public Square, Dahlonega, GA (706) 864-2257

Mon-Sat: 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Adults: $8.50 Seniors:$8 Youth (7-17): $6 Children (6 & under): Free

See the collection of artifacts from the U.S.’s first gold rush, twenty years prior to the California gold rush.

Pine Mountain Gold Museum 1881 Stockmar Road, Villa Rica, GA (678) 840-1445

Tues-Sat: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adult: $5 Senior: $4 Children (3-12): $4 Military/First-Responders: $4 Student $4, Children (2 & under): Free

Sitting on an actual gold mine with gold panning on site, this museum houses gold mining and regional artifacts dating as far back as 12,000 BC.

Consolidated Gold Mine Tour 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road, Dahlonega, GA (706) 864-8473

Offers a tour of a gold mine and gold panning on site.

Georgia Marble Museum 1985 Kennesaw Ave., Nelson, GA (770) 735-2211

Mon-Fri: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Open Pit Mining Tours available only in early October.

Once a year during the Georgia Marble Festival, the museum offers a tour of the world’s largest open pit marble quarry at Polycor Georgia Marble Company’s Tate operation.

Crystal Gold Mine  51931 Silver Valley Road Kellog, ID (208) 783-GOLD

9-6pm daily. Seniors: $8.50 Adults: $10

Tour an authentic 1880s underground gold mine. See crystal and stalactite formations; mining artifacts.

Sierra Silver Mine Underground Tour 420 5th St. Wallace, ID (208) 752-5151

Daily every 30 minutes, 9-4. (July & August until 6 p.m.) (No Children Under 4) 1 hour 15 minutes Adults,$8; Seniors,$7; Children, 4-16, $6.50. Children (6-11): $2 Children under six: Free

Trolley takes you to the minesite. An experienced miner guides you as you witness exhibits, methods & techniques for hard-rock silver mining.

Western Wallace District Mining Museum 509 Bank St. Wallace, ID (208) 556-1592

(July-August) 8-8, daily. Adults, $2; Seniors $1.50; Children $.50 See artifacts from historic silver and mining era.

Museum of Science and Industry 57th and Lake Shore Dr Chicago, IL (773) 684-1414

May 30-Sept 4- 9:30-5:50 daily. Adults: $9 Seniors: $7.50 Children (3-11): $5

Visit the Old Ben #17 Coal mine shaft and learn about the development, and history of coal and coal mining.

Kansas Underground Salt Museum Hutchinson, Kansas (620) 662-1425, Toll Free: 866-755-3450

Email:  [email protected]

Winter Hours: Tuesday-Friday Open 9-5 Tours for General Public at 10:00, 11:40, 1:00, 3:00 Additional times offered as demand requires. Please check the web site for Summer hours $13.50 – Regular Ticket $8.50 – Children 4 – 12 Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the mine.

Visitors who bring a Cosmosphere ticket stub from the past 30 days receive a discount to the Kansas Underground Salt Musuem. Visitors can also redeem their ticket from the Salt Museum at the Cosmosphere for a discounted admission.

Kentucky Coal Mining Museum Benham, KY and Lynch, KY (606) 848-1530

Mon-Sat: 10-5 Sun: 1-4pm Adults: $5 Children: $2.50 Seniors: $4

Guided or self-guided tours available; you’ll get a feel for what it was like to live, work, and play at these unique camps in Benham and Lynch.

A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum  Michigan Tech 1400 Townsend Dr. 5th Floor EERC Bldg. Houghton, MI

Mon – Fri: 9-4:30 Sat: noon-4

Free admission, donations accepted. Famous for world-class collection of Lake Superior copper and iron district minerals. 60,000 specimens from around the world.

Michigan Iron Industry Museum 73 Forge Road Negaunee, MI 49866

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum highlights the state’s iron mining industry, which has flourished for more than 125 years. The museum tells the story of the industry and the people who worked in it.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area  PO Box 404 Ironton, MN 56455 (218) 546-5926

Daily 8am-4pm Check website for further details.

Tour the Croft Mine historical park, with its historic buildings, underground iron mine tour, museum and gift shop, as well as other recreational activities such as fishing, and canoeing.

Hill Annex Mine State Park  PO Box 376 Calumet, MN 55716 (218) 247-7215

Daily 9am-5pm Check website for further details.

Tour of iron ore mine and facilities (museum, historic site, picnic area, scenic overlook, fossil hunt, and gift shop).

Iron World Discovery Center  Highway 169 West Chisolm, MN

Daily 9:30-5pm Adults: $8 Seniors: $7 Students: $6 Family Pass: $30 Children under 7: Free

Dramatic glass and steel museum perched on open pit iron mine. Relates iron mining history through lifelike displays and audio, including living history tapes.

Minnesota Museum of Mining   900 Lake Street West Chisolm, MN 55719 (218) 254-5543

Memorial Day-Labor Day: 9am-6pm Adults: $3 Family: $8.00 Students: $2 Special requests and tours available Group reservations call: 218-254-7158

View the museum’s historic mining equipment, simulated underground mine, gift shop and event grounds.

Soudan Underground Mine State Park  P.O. Box 335 Soudan, MN 55782 Phone (218) 753-2245 Fax (218) 753-2246

Please see website for more information. We offer an underground tour of the mine, which takes visitors 2341 feet below the surface, and then 3/4 of a mile to the stope area.

Taconite Mine Tours  Hibbing, Taconite is located near Chisolm on Minnesota’s Mesabi Iron Range.

Wed. & Thur: noon. Advance reservations are encouraged. Contact Ironworld Discovery Center. Children must be 10 years or older and accompanied by an adult. Admission: $6 per person. Please see website for more information.

You’ll visit the mine, the concentrator & the agglomerator. Slacks & comfortable shoes are recommended. Hard hats, safety glasses and earplugs will be furnished.

Missouri Mines State Historic Site  St. Joe State Park in Old Lead Belt, Southeast Missouri (573) 431-6226

Mon-Sat: 10-4 Sun: 12-7pm Adults: $2 Children 6-12: $1.25 Under 6: Free Groups of 15+: Adults: $1; Children: $.50. Check website for more information.

On weekends, a miner–retired from the property–is present for tours. 12-minute film from St. Joe Lead Co., which had operated the site.

Tri-State Mineral Museum  Schifferdecker Park corner of 7th and Chifferdecker Ave. Joplin, MI (417) 623-2341

Open year round Mon-Sat: 10-5 Sun: 2-5pm Adults: $2 Family rate: $5 Group rates available Free admission on Tuesdays For more information or to schedule a group tour, please contact the Museum at 417-623-2341.

Mineral specimens and memorabilia focusing on mining and minerals in Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma.

World Museum of Mining 155 Museum Way P.O. Box 33 Butte, MT 59703 406-723-7211 (April 1 – October 31)

9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4:30) $8.50 adults, $5 children 5-17 years old, $7.50 Seniors over 65 Please call for school groups.

Guides for tours of the museum can be arranged at $25 plus admission. One-day mining history and geology trips, escorted by a geologist, available summer 2004.

One of very few mining museums on the site of an underground metal mine. Extensive collection of artifacts in outdoor mine yard, including original 100-foot-high headframe of Orphan Girl mine; museum in Orphan Girl hoist room. Lecture Series in summer and fall. Thousands of period artifacts in Hellroaring Gulch, 1890’s mining town with 50 buildings; Garrett mineral collection. Special Events, educational programs, and outreach available.

Bannack State Park 4200 Bannack Rd Dillon, MT 59725 (406) 834-3413

The best preserved ghost town west of the Mississippi, Bannack State Park is the site of the first major gold rush in Montana. Over 60 Historic structures still stand and are open for you to explore. During the summer months they offer free town tours every day, and gold panning. On the weekends, they offer the same free tours and a tour of our mill for $4 a person. Just stop by the visitors center for more information, or give them a call at (406) 834-3413.

North Dakota

Beulah Mine Beulah, ND

Tours available by appointment. Call Dakota Westmoreland Corporation in Beulah at (701) 873-4333

Owned and operated by the Dakota Westmoreland Corporation, Beulah, ND. Supplies lignite to the Coyote Station and Heskett Station. Domestic lignite also available.

Center Mine Center, ND

Tours available by appointment Monday through Friday. Contact the mine at (701) 794-8734.

Owned and operated by BNI Coal, Ltd., Center, ND (a subsidiary of Minnesota Power, Duluth, MN). Supplies lignite to the Milton R. Young Station, Center, ND.

Falkirk Mine Underwood, ND

Tours available by appointment Monday through Friday (24-hour notice required). Contact Falkirk at (701) 442-5751.

Operated by The Falkirk Mining Company (a subsidiary of The North American Coal Corporation, Dallas, TX), Underwood, ND. Supplies lignite to the Coal Creek Station.

Freedom Mine Beulah, ND

Tours available Monday-Friday by appointment (24-hour notice required). Call Coteau at (701) 873-2281.

Supplies lignite to the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, Antelope Valley Station, Leland Olds Station and Stanton Station. The largest lignite mine in the United States, operating two 120-cubic-yard draglines and a fleet of 200-ton overburden trucks.

W.M. Keck Museum Mackay School of Mines University of Nevada, Reno (775) 784-4528

Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed weekends and university holidays. Group tours available – please call for appointments. Admission is free.

Founded in 1908, this museum hosts a spectacular collection of minerals, rocks, fossils and mining artifacts. Exhibits span three floors.

Barrick Gold of North America Community Relations [email protected] (775) 748-1000

Group tour requests are accommodated when possible. Reservations are required; please give 6-8 weeks advance notice. Inquire via email or phone.

Tours are arranged by inquiry and site visited and areas toured will be determined by the topic(s) of interest for the inquiring group.

McCaw School of Mines Henderson, NV 703-779-8930

Call 702-779-8930 for further information, or visit their website.

4,500 sq. ft. structure portrays the history & importance of mining in Nevada. Includes a simulated tunnel connecting 4 interior alcoves that depict: historical mining, mining in Nevada, geology & minerals and modern day mining. The McCaw School of Mines is an introduction to mining for elementary school students.

Newmont Mining Corporation Elko, Nevada 702-635-4302

Second Tuesday of the month throughout the season Depart 9 a.m. from museum; returns to museum at noon. 12 & up only. Call 702-635-4302 for information. Reservations required 24 hours in advance.

Tour the Newmont Mining Corporation, the largest gold producer in North America and second largest in the world.

Newmont Mining Corporation Winnemucca, Nevada (775) 635-4302

Tours offered on the third Thursday of each month. Tours depart from the Lone Tree mine at 9:00 a.m. and return at noon. 12 & up only.

Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance. Long pants and closed-toe shoes required. Call (775) 635-4302 for reservations or more information.

Newmont Mining Corporation Elko, Nevada (775) 778-4068

Tours offered on the second Tuesday of the month, April through October. Tours depart from the Northeastern Nevada Museum at 9:00 a.m. and return at noon. 12 & up only.

Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance. Closed-toe shoes required. Call (775) 778-4068 for reservations or more information.

Tonopah Historic Mining Park Located on a hillside above Tonopah, NV (775) 482-9274

Walking tours conducted on weekends and by appointment. Call 1-775-482-9274 for information and reservations.

Visit 80 acres of century-old mining works; many of the buildings house original equipment. Tour the Visitors Center which is filled with mining info. Gold and silver deposit started the first great mining camp of 20th century.

Sterling Hill Mine and Mining Museum 20 Plant St. Ogdensburg, NJ 973-209-7212

Apr-Now: Daily tours, 11am July-Aug: Daily tours at 1 pm & 3pm. Adults: $9, Seniors: $8, Children: $6

Extensive and interesting mining memorabilia in museum; mine displays beautiful fluorescent minerals for which the mine is famous.

Grants Mining Museum 100 N. Iron Ave. Grants, NM 1-800-748-2142 505-287-4802

Mon-Sat: 9-4, closed Sun Adults: $3, Children 7-18: $2, Under 7: Free

Groups and tour guides by appointment. Please call 1-800-748-2142 or 505-287-4802, or visit their website for more information. Tour the only uranium mining museum in the world. Underground conditions are recreated and domed in white stone and glass museum. Gems & minerals displayed from around the world.

Pennsylvania

Windber Coal Heritage Center 501 15th Street Windber, PA 15963-0115 Phone: (814) 467-6680 Toll-free: (877) 826-3933 Email:  [email protected]

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Operating Season: Wednesday, May 1 – Wednesday, October 31 (often extended through Dec. 31st)

The Windber Coal Heritage Center tells the story of a unique kind of community in our country – a community which was created and maintained by industry, devoted to serving that industry and the people it employed.

Pennsylvania State Univ. Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum and Art Gallery 112 Steidle Bldg. Pollock Rd State College, PA 814-865-6427

Free admission. Mon-Fri: 9-5pm, Sat-Sun: 1-5pm. Tour the museum’s fine display of minerals, fossils & artifacts. A most extensive collection of paintings and sculpture depicting mining and related industries.

South Dakota

Black Hills Mining Museum 323 W. Main St. Lead, SD 57754 (605) 584-1605

Seasonal Hours-

Summer Schedule: Open mid-May until mid-October, Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00. Closed Sunday.

Off-season by appointment only

The museum, gold panning, and tour are fee based.

The Black Hills Mining Museum was designated by the South Dakota State Legislature in 2014 as the official mining museum of South Dakota.  The museum offers a gift shop, gold panning, 5,000 sq. ft. museum with a theater, and its signature feature of a guided tour through a recreated underground level of the legendary Homestake gold mine that ran in Lead for 125 years.  Allow one hour for the tour.  Last tour leaves at 4:00 pm.

Mining Heritage Exhibit at the Chihuahua Desert Research Institute and Nature Preserve (432) 364-2499

Open all year; admission is free. Guides can be arranged by calling the CDRI at 505-364-2499.

Constructed by a group of Mining Engineers and Geologists who were classmates at Texas Western College (now UTEP) 1957-1961, the idea is to show how small-scale mining would have been carried out in the Chihuahua Desert, which includes West Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and northern Mexico in the old days.

In addition to an 18-ft. high head frame and 50 ft. of track for small ore cars, a pavilion houses many exhibits like drills, carbide lamps, old mine maps and photos, and relics used with explosives. There are also piles of boulders of several ores which have been mined in the region.

It is a great education exhibit for school children and senior groups, and admission is free.

Washington, D.C.

Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology Gems and Minerals Smithonian National Museum of Natural History Washington DC 202-357-2700

Free Admission. Open 10am-5:30 daily. From the Hope Diamond to the walk-through mine (funded by members of National Mining Association), experience the finest gem and mineral collection and interactive, educational exhibits.

West Virginia

Exhibition Coal Mine New River Park Beckley, WV 304-256-1747

Tours 10am-5:30pm. Adults: $8, Seniors: $7, Children 4-12: $5, Children under 4: Free Includes underground mine tour and surface buildings. Shows low-seam coal mine from its earliest manual stages to modern mechanized operation.

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum 336 Mate Street Matewan, WV 25678 304-546-8473

The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum, in the heart of Historic Matewan, preserves and interprets artifacts and historical records of the local communities affected by the West Virginia Mine Wars, exploring historical events from multiple perspective through the lives of ordinary people.

Scotts Run Museum and Trail P0 Box 264 Osage, WV 26543 304-599-1931

This Museum and History Trail is a project of the nonprofit Scott’s Run Park and Recreation, Inc, for the purpose of preserving the legacy and oral history of the coal boom in the nine communities that make up Scott’s Run, and to encourage development of the park, gardens, music row, and businesses in the area.

National Coal Heritage Area – Bramwell Depot 100 Simmons St Bramwell, WV 24715 1-866-858-5959

The Historic Bramwell Depot construction project is a part of the Heritage Park that was developed in Bramwell, WV. The depot is officially known as the Southern Interpretive Center of the Coal Heritage Trail, a National Historic Byway. The original train station was demolished in the 1950s. It was rebuilt by a federal government grant. Groundbreaking for rebuilding the depot was held on August 2,1996. the Depot now houses interpretive exibits that offer insight into the rich heritage of the Poachontas Coalfields. Depot serves as a welcome center for tourist visiting the Home of the Bramwell Millionaires. It was completed in 2003 and is now open seven days a week.

Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation Museum 347 Main Street Boone County Madison, WV 25130 304-369-0316 or 304-369-9118

The Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation Museum was created by the Boone County Development Corporation and chartered by the State of West Virginia. The growth of the West Virginia Coal Festival and area historic attractions encouraged Foundation members and the Development Authority to develop a museum. The downtown coal museum showcases the history of coal and its people. The museum was and remains an educational place visited by schoolchildren, out of area visitors, and former coal miners and their decedents.

Royce J. and Caroline B. Watts Museum 401 Evansdale Dr Morgantown, WV 26505 304-293-4609

The Royce J. and Caroline B. Watts Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the social, cultural, and technological history of West Virginia’s coal and petroleum industries through the collection, preservation, research and exhibition of historical objects and archival materials.

The Watts Museum is housed in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University.

The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums

405 East Main Street Platteville, WI 53818 608-348-3301

Your underground adventure awaits! Tour the 1845 Bevans Lead-Zinc Mine, ride in a 1931 mine train (weather permitting), and discover the local history of the Upper Mississippi Valley mining district. The Museums trace the development of lead and zinc mining in the Upper Mississippi Valley using models, dioramas, artifacts, and photographs. A guided tour includes a walk down into the 1845 Bevans Lead Mine, a tour of the headframe building and hoist house, and an above-ground outdoor train ride pulled by a 1931 mine locomotive. The Rollo Jamison Collection exhibits include artifacts, stories and music of home, farm and family life and nostalgic local cultural history.

Black Thunder Mine

Call for more information; please call to determine if a group tour can be scheduled in June, July or August 2009.

Near Gillette, WY. Call for tour information: (307) 464-2201

Foundation Coal West, Inc. For more information, contact:

Gillette Convention and Visitors Bureau 1810 S. Douglas Highway, #A Gillette, WY 82718 307-686-0040

Call for more information, or visit the website. Learn about the coal mining industry in Campbell County (Gillette, WY) which provides over 30% of the United States coal for electrical power generation.

© 2022, National Mining Association

Underground mine tours

Experience rappelling down a mine shaft, underground drilling and blasting workshops, or an easy guided walking tour. Call us today for availability and reservations. Walk-ins are welcome as availability allows.

Thanks for a great 2023 Season! We are now closed. Tours will be offered again seven days per week beginning May 18th.

Experience Underground Copper Mining As It Was In The 1800s

Experience the mine as the miners would have over 160 years ago with a single light on your hard hat. Our tours provide guests with experiences that are anything but average. Our mine is located near Greenland, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula.

Each one of our underground mine tours provides a truly unique experience. Learn about the history of the copper mine, get hands-on with different mining techniques, and explore the depths of this 1800s copper mine. Check out our Mining Educational Programs to learn about our 6 hour drilling workshops. 

• Prospector's Tour

Duration: 1.5 hrs   |   Ages: All

Adventure Level

The Prospector Tour hike provides experiences you won’t soon forget! Enter by the No. 1 adit and see solid pieces of native copper weighing hundreds of pounds left behind by earlier miners.  Traverse through the largest rooms of the mine and past shafts to lower levels and see where pure copper and silver was removed. 

Miners's Tour

Duration: 3 hrs   |   Ages: 12 & up

If you want to try rappelling down a mine shaft in total darkness and crawling through low areas and down slopes, this is for you! Use a rappelling harness and gear to descend 80 feet to a lower level of the mine, crawl through several small areas, and hike through some of the oldest and most interesting parts of the mine. 

• Captain's Tour

Duration: 5-6 hrs   |   Ages: 13 & up

The Captain’s Tour will take you on an extensive journey through almost all of the first level and second level workings of the Adventure Mine, including areas that have been submerged for over 100 years. You will see rails, timbers, carts, and other artifacts not seen anywhere else in the mine. A pasty lunch underground is included.

About Adventure Mine

The Adventure Mine is a copper mine near Greenland, Michigan that operated from 1850 to 1920. During that time, miners removed more than 11 million pounds of native copper from the ground. We invite you to step back in time in the world’s greatest copper district to experience one of Michigan’s best-preserved historic mines.

• Shop Our Store

The Adventure Mining Company sells many natural copper products sourced from Michigan’s Copper Country. Choose from our natural native tumbled copper nuggets, native “Hackley” copper, float copper, and other native pieces of copper.

Stay in Our Cabin

A small private loft cabin is set in the woods at our historic Adventure Mine. Queen bed in the loft, outdoor deck, full bath with shower. WiFi is available. Underground mine tours, hiking trails, and mine building ruins to explore! Please Note: Offset-tread stairs access the loft…this may be difficult for those with limited mobility.

Reserve Your Tour Today

Tours operate 7 days a week during the summer and are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have a large group or want to reserve a certain tour, please call ahead for availability. 

• Miner's Tour
• Education Program

Adventure Mining Company

200 Adventure Ave Greenland, MI 49929

For GPS Navigation, use:

1100 Plank Rd. Greenland, MI 49929

Our Mailing Address

PO Box 97 Painesdale, MI 49955

Website by: SmartCreative

You’ll Never Forget A Trip Through This Old Copper Mine In Arizona

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

More by this Author

Mining is an essential part of Arizona’s history and evidence of its everlasting legacy can be found all over the state. Asarco Mineral Discovery Center in Sahuarita gives visitors a firsthand look at how the industry operates by offering tours of a working open-pit copper mine. Check it out:

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Visit the mine’s website to for more information about tour times at the ASARCO mine and follow along on its Facebook page to learn more.

Have you ever visited ASARCO? If so, did you learn anything interesting about Arizona’s mining history? Let us know all about the experience, and check out our previous article for a quirky mining town that belongs on your bucket list: It’s Impossible Not To Love The Most Eccentric Town In Arizona .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Rosemont Copper Mine Tours of Tucson

Rosemont Copper Mine Tours – Tucson, Arizona

Rosemont Copper offers tours to all that are interested in seeing the development of the copper mine planned for the area just outside of Tucson.  You will see cattle grazing, detailed plans of how the mine is going to be developed with minimum impact on the surrounding beauty.

It is planned for Rosemount Copper Company to develop the most progressive and efficient metal-producing operations in the world at this location.  They will set new environmental standards for resource protection, water conservation, and land reclamation which will set the standard for the rest of the world to follow when they are mining the necessary resources to make the world function.

What an opportunity for you to learn and see what this company is offering the world right here in Tucson! Just book a tour, visit with the people working in the mine environment and you will learn that there is a genuine desire to reclaim the land in a beautiful manner rather than ugly piles of waste.

To assist in the revegetation and reclamation effort, Rosemont Copper has established a 30,000-acre working cattle ranch about 30 miles south of Tucson, AZ. The ranching operation is professionally managed by Tom Kay and he will oversee a herd of 500 to 550 beef cattle. The Rosemont ranch has no dairy cows. Tom has years of ranching experience and loves being a cowboy, working to keep the cattle, equipment, and beauty all working in tip-top order.  He knows that we need copper to function today but he also knows that beauty in the area needs to be maintained.  The plans of the company accomplish this with their vision, approach, plans, and promises.

Rosemont will be using the latest in natural, non-confined ranching techniques. Rosemont cattle will be raised in environmentally friendly conditions with no hormones, no antibiotics and they will be completely range fed.

The revegetation has been studied with the assistance of the University Of Arizona School Of Natural Resources.  They were performed to identify the optimum plant species for the revegetation following the mining process.  The 29 seeds selected have a resilient and productive system and are currently available from large-scale commercial seed vendors and meet the NRCS’s ecological site description.

The cattle-ranching operation is critical to assist in the process of growing and reproducing the seeds.  Since seeds do better if incorporated into the soil so they don’t dry out in our desert heat or blow away in our wind so the cattle hooves can press the seed into the soil.  The grazing of the cattle creates textured soil which helps capture water and nutrients.

Not only that but the grazing helps to stimulate the growth not only with them grazing but also by trampling weeds and eating weed flowers.  Of course, the manure provides benefits of fertilizing the land which helps even in the poor growth areas where a concentration of manure increases microorganisms and adds to the soil fertility.

Rosemont Copper Mine has been actively assisting a number of local organizations with their fundraising activities.  They have assisted in a number of activities such as supplying not only financial assistance but also providing the cow for the Cienega Rotary “Cow Pie Bingo” event where funds assist in both local and international projects.

Rosemont Copper hosts free weekly tours of the site that include visits to the geology exploration camp, the historic mining areas, the old quarry, and the weather station. Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 to noon.  This tour will be not only a beautiful opportunity to see the Arizona Mountains and desert but also to learn about the value of copper to our development.  Without copper, we probably would not have electricity or would not have a space program.  It’s critical to mine this mineral in the most environmentally friendly manner possible and Rosemont Copper Mine is working toward accomplishing this and setting the standard for the rest of the world!

You can arrange for your tour by calling Phone: (520) 343-1730

The mine is located approximately 30 miles southeast of Tucson, Arizona.

Rosemont Copper Hidden Springs Rd Vail, AZ 85641

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Yuma territorial prison state historical park, leave a comment cancel reply.

Finders Keepers

Enjoy the finest copper and mineral collecting in the world! At Caledonia Mine you spend the day digging through your own private ore pile, and with the help of our experienced staff, you take home whatever treasures you find! 

At the Caledonia Mine, we provide our guests with a unique geological experience. Whether you are a seasoned rock collector or an enthusiastic beginner, there is something for everyone to find. Once your reservation is made, we extract ore that the miners left behind and pile it on the surface.” With the help of our experienced staff, you sort through the rock, and keep whatever you find!  

Caledonia Mine is set in the side of a mountain overlooking the beautiful valley of the Flint Steel River. The mine is conveniently located 20 minutes from Ontonagon and 40 minutes from Houghton. The area is full of other fun things to do near by, from hiking the Porcupine Mountains to relaxing on the beautiful sandy beaches of Lake Superior.

Looking for other adventures while in the area?

Rock & Mineral Collecting

Private Ore Piles

After commercial mining ceased, thousands of tons of broken ore remained inside the mine. Our experienced staff bring the ore to the surface and stay on hand to help you make some exciting finds.

Family-Size Ore Pile

3-4 adults  |  4 hours  |   $200

This large, 3 cubic yard pile is perfect for the whole family!   In this type of pile, the ore holds many native minerals like quartz, calcite, feldspar, and epidote. But the main focus is finding copper specimens! If you have access to one, we recommend bringing a metal detector. Other great finds include; silver and the challenging datolite. Our experienced staff will be on hand to help you identify anything you find.  

Children and seniors are welcome but must be specified. Up to 2 additional children and 2 seniors. Please call the office for accommodating larger groups.  

Tools provided during the dig: Finhoe, hand rake, bucket, and running water. We recommend bringing a metal detector and a bucket for your trip home. *We do have buckets for purchase on-site*  

Single-Person Ore Pile

1-2 adults  |   2-4 hours  |   $100

The Single Ore Pile is built for 1-2 adults who are looking for an adventure without taking on an immense workload. The pile is 1.5 cubic yards (half the size of our family pile). In this type of pile, the ore holds many native minerals like quartz, calcite, feldspar, and epidote. But the main focus is finding copper specimens! If you have access to one, we recommend bringing a metal detector. Other great finds include; silver and the challenging datolite. Our experienced staff will be on hand to help you identify anything you find.  

Depending on the circumstance, and total number, children and seniors can be added to the pile for an additional cost of 20$/person. Please keep in mind that the amount of rock stays the same and it may take you less time to finish. Call the office with any additional questions.  

1 adult  |   2-4 hours  |   $50  

On site at the Caledonia Mine is a tailings pile- often described as mining by-product or “leftovers”. This large area is a mixture of rock from the mining days and from used piles. Here you are able to bring your own tools and dig through the rock at your own leisure. We do not provide tools or guided assistance. It is considered an independent activity and offered only to adults. The area is turned over a few times a season, please call the office for details.

No children or seniors. Please bring your own tools.

Datolite Pile 

1-2 adults  |  1.5 cubic yards  |   2-4 hours  |   $300

The datolite is one of the most challenging and most rewarding minerals to find! It can only be spotted with the naked eye and will not generate a beep on a metal detector. The nodule form often described as “cauliflower-shape” can only be found in the Upper Peninsula and some parts of northern WI. The beautiful specimen is ordinary on the outside and absolutely stunning on the inside. Here at the Caledonia, the most common colors are red, pink, and white. But the more exotic colors are blue, yellow, and green!  

The rock in this pile is much finer, with a gravel-like consistency. Due to the increasing difficulty in the extraction process, we have increased the price on the pile.  

We provide you with a screen and shovel to meticulously sort through the rock. Our experienced staff will help you get the hang of identifying the challenging datolite. We have the ability to cut and polish a shelf-worthy specimen, on hand! This is a cash-only service and dependent on the staff present.  

Tools provided during the dig: shovel, screen, bucket, and running water.  

About The Caledonia Mine

A Proud Family Business

The Caledonia Mine is an underground, walk-in, copper mine, nearly a mile and half in length. The mine was opened in 1863, but only commercially operated until the mill burnt down in 1870. It changed hands privately over the years, with many attempts at mining. In 2013, Evergreen Explorations purchased the mine and currently offers the mine pile experience that you see today. This is a family-run business, started by the late Emanuel Manos. His 7 children carry on his dream by removing the ore, running piles and educational programs, and cutting and polishing the rock found inside the mine.

THANK YOU for your interest in the Caledonia Mine, we cannot wait to provide you a unique, rock-collecting experience!

Premium Mineral Collecting

Enjoy premium mineral collecting and other special events at historic, privately owned rock rock piles. Come discover what Paleo Americans have been mining since 2000 BC.

Contact us for special rates and unique digs that accommodate large groups, rock and mineral clubs, and education programs!

History of The Caledonia Mine

Know Before You Go

Book a Reservation

(906) 390-2555

We require 48 hours notice to prepare your reservation.

During the season, we are open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Looking to visit on another day of the week? We offer 'Pick Your Own Day' bookings for a $75 fee depending on the availability of our staff. Please call for more details.

© 2024 Caledonia Copper Mine | Select photos from   Unsplash   |   Sitemap  | Website by  Determined.

[email protected]

(520) 432-2071

Copper Queen Mine Tour

Copper Queen Mine Underground Tours

Tour Times: Please call for current tour times.

Tour Rates: $16 for Adults / $8. for age 6-12 (taxes are included). ages 0-5 not allowed underground Prices subject to change. No open toe shoes or high heels permitted. You will need to arrive 30 minutes before tour time  your purchase tickets.

Group rates are  available for groups of 10 or more with advanced notice of two weeks. Please call for reservations or more information.

Prices subject to change Tours last approximately 1 hour.

What to Expect

Step into the fascinating world of mining as you don your hard hats, miner's headlamps, and safety vests, preparing for an adventure beneath the surface. Each year, 50,000 visitors descend into the depths of the Queen Mine, immersing themselves in a journey that transports them back in time. Led by knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, you'll venture a remarkable 1,500 feet into the mine, where tales of mining days, techniques, dangers,  await.

For your utmost safety and comfort, please ensure you wear closed-toe shoes, leaving behind any high heels. As you embark on this extraordinary expedition, your adventure commences with the distribution of your personal hard hats, miner's lamps, and safety vests. Following a brief introduction and a comprehensive safety briefing, you'll board an original mine train for this underground excursion. You will board, straddling the bench seats, akin to riding a bicycle, as the train sets off on its captivating ½ mile round trip, complete with two stops.

 One stop allows you to disembark the train and venture along a 300-foot walk through the tunnel. The path, reminiscent of a dirt road, invites you to immerse yourself in the very footsteps of miners past. At the other stop, you'll encounter a series of 36 steps, offering a momentary challenge.  If climbing the steps isn't your preference, you can opt to remain on the train, enjoying the company of tour guide from the comfort of the train. Throughout the approximately one-hour tour, the mine's cool climate makes it advisable to bring along a light sweater or jacket to ensure your utmost comfort.

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable subterranean expedition? Join one of the daily tours, available seven days a week. The Queen Mine Tour Building, nestled just south of Old Bisbee's bustling business district, easily accessible from the U.S. 80 interchange.

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Travel info, 6 upper peninsula mine tours: step into our history.

Some vacation destinations invite you to imagine what the landscape looked like decades or centuries ago, relying on your imagination. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, we know there is no better way to describe it to you than to invite you to immerse yourself. Before we were a tourism destination, thousands of Europeans and Americans flocked to the U.P. for a different reason — the promising future of mining. With word of our abundant iron and copper mines, many left their homes and settled across our peninsula with prosperity and wealth on their horizon. Or so they hoped. 

America’s first mining boom in particular began as prospectors and speculators rushed to mine deposits of native copper along the Keweenaw Peninsula, the northwestern most point of the U.P. The iron ore and copper these workers mined built our railroads, bridges, skyscrapers, tools, utensils and Civil War, WWI and WWII weapons. There were dozens of mines in the industry’s heydey. Today, you’re invited to visit a few! Check out these Upper Peninsula mine tours, walk through the same tunnels that mine workers did and see the rock formations left behind from decades of digging. 

While many of the original mines were closed or repurposed over the last several decades, these mines have opened their adits and invite you down into their history.

Iron Mountain Iron Mine

The Iron Mountain Iron Mine is a historic mine located in Vulcan. It was one of the most productive iron mines in the U.P., producing over 21 million tons of iron ore during its lifetime. Today, visitors can take a tour of the mine and learn about its history and the process of iron mining. The tour begins with a ride on a tramcar that takes visitors down into the mine. Once underground, visitors can explore various levels of the mine, including the hoist house and the underground shafts. Its rich history dates back to the mid-1800s, when it was the Norway Mine, operated by the Norway Iron Company. In 1945, the mine closed due to declining iron prices and rising costs. The 1950s brought a group of investors who purchased the abandoned mine and eventually restored many of its buildings and equipment, offering a look inside to the public through tours. 

Guided tours take you 2,600 feet through drifts and tunnels to 400 feet below the earth’s surface. Be awed by the amazing rock formations in the large underground lighted caverns. At the end of your tour, enjoy a miner’s lunch, a traditional Cornish pasty. 

Cliffs Shaft Museum

Housed in the former Cliffs Shaft Mine, this Ishpeming museum tells the story of what was once one of the world’s largest iron ore mines from 1867-1967. Visitors can explore the hoist house, machine shop and blacksmith shop. You’ll also learn about the daily lives of the miners and their families, geology in our region and the history of iron mining in Michigan. Take a guided tour of the tunnels that miners walked through to the base of C-Shaft. Tours include a ride down 22 stories below ground in the mine shaft on an authentic mine train, a demonstration of drilling techniques used by miners and a look at past and present headgear. You can also take your photo near a 170-ton iron ore truck with 12-foot-high tires or inside a 30-ton shovel bucket! 

Painesdale Mine

Painesdale Mine and Shaft Inc. is dedicated to preserving the Champion #4 Shaft House in Painesdale, which operated for nearly 65 years before closing in 1967. Champion #4 Shaft House was built in 1902 as part of the Copper Range Mining Company mines that ran from Atlantic Mine to Painesdale.

Visitors who arrange tours get to see the inside of the shaft house, the hoist house and the captain's office. Upon entering this mine, it will seem as though the mining boom never ended. Rather, it looks like you’ve stepped back in time and found the mine just after the whistle blew signaling the end of the day. Miners aren’t returning tomorrow, it is just mostly untouched. Some buildings have been restored to keep them intact; however, what you see here is mostly the same view workers got on their way in each day. 

Keweenaw National Historical Park

Keweenaw National Historical Park offers several different tours of historic copper mines in the area and other heritage sites. 

Adventure Mining Company

Visitors to Adventure Mining Company , near Greenland, will learn about the copper mine’s rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Originally known as the Mystery Mine, it was operated by Adventure Copper Company. This mine produced over 11 million pounds of native copper during its lifetime! It is highly regarded as one of the Keweenaw Peninsula’s most productive copper mines. The mine operated until 1920, and reopened for tours in the 1980s. Today, it is actually still open for mining operations in addition to tours. Adventure Mining Company also offers gemstone mining activities, where visitors can search for their own gems in a sluice box. Little ones and adults alike will enjoy taking home the treasures they’ve dug up.

Quincy Mine

For 99 years the Quincy Mine in Hancock had an impressive string of dividends, earning it the nickname "Old Reliable.” The Quincy Mine has a fascinating history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The mine was named after Josiah Quincy, Jr., a Boston lawyer and politician who was an early investor in the mine. He and the mine employed thousands of workers over the years and played a significant role in the local economy. Quincy Mine operated until 1945, closed and then reopened in the 1970s.

Today, it is a major tourist attraction in the Keweenaw, featuring two-hour, guided tours of the underground workings, the No. 2 shaft house, the world's largest steam powered hoist — which serviced the No. 2 shaft to a vertical depth of 6,200 feet. They also get to ride the Midwest's only cog-rail tram. Shorter, surface-only tours are also available.

The mine is open from the end of April to mid-June on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and then every day starting in mid-June to late October. Off-season tours are available on-demand.  Reservations are highly recommended. The walking tour is an in-depth session on geology, history, technology and engineering — or any topic in which you may have a special interest!

Delaware Copper Mine

The Delaware Copper Mine is located in Mohawk. Although copper was only mined there from 1847 to 1887, it has made its name as a popular attraction for Keweenaw visitors! The tour will take you down the stairs to Shaft No. 1 to the first level, at a depth of 110 feet, where you'll see pure veins of copper exposed in the mine walls along with other geologic interests. Involved in the very first copper boom, this mine is a great insight into what mining looked like in the 1800s in the U.P.

Above ground, browse the gift shop and museum, or take the walking trails to the mine ruins, saw mill, large antique engine display and train collection. Stop by the zoo to visit the miniature deer, or search the rock piles of souvenir copper.

Other mining history

While they aren’t mine tours, you can learn a great deal of our mining history with artifacts and hands-on exhibits from the following destinations, too!

Keweenaw National Historic Park heritage sites: A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum , Copper Range Historical Museum , Coppertown Mining Museum and Old Victoria Restoration .

Caledonia Copper Mine : Dig for your own rocks and minerals, and bring home your finds. Hunt through a pile for copper specimens, quartz, calcite, feldspar and epidote. Silver and datolite are a little harder to find but not impossible.

Plan your stay!

Don’t just go where you can see history, go where you can feel it. Trace the footsteps of our legends back in time and you’ll be fascinated by what you find. Book your stay , and spend several days uncovering our mining past.

We would love to see your favorite summer scenes and adventures! Use our hashtag #uptravel for an opportunity to be featured on our social media, website or in our marketing materials. You can also upload your photos to our Summer Photo Crowdriff Collector below.

Sign up for the Copper Corridor Crawl Adventure Passpor t  !

  Image source: Cat Brown  

Authentic Arizona

Discover by chance., return by choice..

The Copper Corridor in south-central Arizona is filled with a rich history of mining and current mining operations, charming small towns, wonderful local businesses, scenic mountains and much more. 

Communities that are part of the Copper Corridor include Globe-Miami, Superior, Hayden, Kearny, Oracle, Oracle Junction, San Manuel/Mammoth, and Winkelman. 

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, going local in the Copper Corridor is fun and easy! Simply search our directory or browse our page here for the latest events and news from the Copper Corridor. 

  Image Source: U.S. Forest Service  

Journey through the Corridor

Map out your adventures!

Things to do

Things you don't want to miss.

Mark your calendar!

Delaware Mine Tours LLC

EXPLORE THE DELAWARE COPPER MINE

Located 12 miles south of Copper Harbor the Delaware Mine is located in the heart of Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula.  The mine was in operation from 1847 to 1887 and over 8 million tons of copper came out of the five mine shafts

DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF DELAWARE COPPER MINE

Delaware Mine Tours is dedicated to preserving the rich history of copper mining in the area. Our self-guided tours offer a unique glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the people and technology that made it all possible. Join us on a journey through time and experience the wonder of Michigan's Copper Country.

Self-Guided Tours

Historic Mine Sites

Unforgettable Experience

COME EXPLORE TODAY

Operating from 1847 until 1887, this authentic, historic mine offers a walking tour that takes you 100 feet below ground to explore one of the earliest mines to operate during the country's first major mining boom. You'll see pure veins of copper exposed in the walls of the mine, along with other geological interests. A Heritage Site of the Keweenaw National Historical Park

Opening May 11, 2024 daily form 10am to 5pm

Full Access Tour   gets you to both the Underground exhibits and all the Aboveground exhibits

Surface Tour   gets you access to all the surface exhibits including the prehistoric mining sites

HEAR FROM OUR VISITORS

“Truly amazing experience. I would do it again. The history and authenticity is just beyond words. 10/10. My kids (10 &4) loved it.”

DELAWARE MINE NEWS

Opening 2024 Season

Michigan Tech returns

Delaware Mine Gen 2

SHARE YOUR DELAWARE MINE MOMENTS!

Share your photos from Delaware Mine and tag us using @DelawareMineTours for a chance to be featured on our website and social media channels.

Virtual Tour of Active Arizona Copper Mines

Take a journey around arizona to discover our active copper mines.

Virtual Tour of Active Copper Mines in Arizona

What: Virtual tour of the active (2019) copper mines in Arizona.

Virtual Tour Length:  5 to 15 minutes.

Tour of Arizona's Copper Mines

In 2020 these 9 active copper mines here in Arizona produced 74% of all the copper mined in the United States. That was 888,000 metric tons of copper (over 1.9 billion pounds!) valued at over $5.5 billion. This tour will guide you state to see where these mines are, what they look like, and you can learn a little about each one as well.

How to Use this Tour:

The virtual tour of active copper mines in Arizona uses Google Earth Web and is most easily viewed with the free Google Earth app for smart devices or via the most recent version of the Chrome web browser. Once the tour loads you will be taken to the tour start page. When you have read a little about copper mining in Arizona, scroll down and press the blue "Start Tour" button to begin. Each stop on the tour will include some pictures and a short description of the mine on the right, and a Google Earth window on the left where you can explore the mine using Google Earth navigation. When you are ready to move on, just click the "next mine" button found at the bottom of the mine description.

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Delaware Mine

Delaware Mine Tours

The Delaware Mine is an authentic mine that operated from 1847 until 1887, during the country’s first major mining boom. The mine was supported by a group of investors, including Horace Greeley. Although the mine didn’t make any money for its investors, it now serves as the perfect example of what the mines in this area were like in the 1800’s. Visitors to the Delaware Mine walk down 100 feet of stairs through the #1 shaft to the first level of the mine, then walk approximately 1700 feet through the original workings to experience a self-guided tour. The length of time the tour takes depends on the visitors’ interest level. Above ground are trails taking visitors past the ruins of two original mine buildings, equipment displays, antique engines, trains and animals. Picnic facilities are available, both above and below ground. A gift shop featuring locally made mementos and rock and mineral specimens is also available. Our very special pets are also featured in the gift shop. The Delaware Mine offers a very unique combination of entertainment and education that will intrigue every member of the family.

Website   |  906-289-4688  |   US-41 – 10 miles south of Copper Harbor

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Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour

10am to 4pm daily , weather permitting .

You can Be Part of This Gold Mining Adventure!

Descend 1000 feet in america's   only vertical shaft gold mine tour.

Experience the "Old West" as it was for hard rock gold miners of "The World’s Greatest Gold Camp," Cripple Creek, Colorado.

Really get into Colorado on this 1 hour tour

•  Vertically descend 100 stories into the earth.  
•  Witness the evolution of underground mining.
•  View gold veins in their natural state.
•  Ride an underground tram air locomotive.
•  Experience the sights and sounds of mining  equipment.  
• Less then a quarter mile of flat and level walking required.

Free Gold Ore

Receive With Your Tour

FREE GOLD ORE SAMPLE

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