Underground REAL Gold Ore Tour with Hands-On Mining

Highlights

Description

Step back in time and experience the thrill of the **Colorado Gold Rush** at the historic **Hidee Gold Mine**, where every visitor becomes a miner for the day. This hands-on adventure takes you deep underground—135 feet beneath the surface—into a real, working mine with visible gold ore veins.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll walk through well-lit, safe tunnels while hearing fascinating stories about miners who carved out their fortunes right here in the Rocky Mountains. The highlight? You’ll grab a **hammer and chisel** and break off your own gold-bearing rock sample to take home in a souvenir bag.

Above ground, try your hand at **gold panning** at the outdoor sluice (seasonal) or indoors during winter. “Keep what you find” as you sift through glittering flakes and learn traditional techniques that made Colorado famous.

Recognized as an official **Colorado Heritage Tour** and inspected for safety by the State of Colorado, Hidee Gold Mine offers the perfect blend of education, excitement, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a history buff, a family seeking adventure, or a curious traveler, this tour delivers an authentic mining experience you can feel, hear, and even pocket.

Itinerary

Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled time for check-inn00:00 — Meet your guide at the Hidee Mine entrancen00:15 — Safety briefing and introduction to mining toolsn00:30 — Guided walk through underground tunnelsn00:45 — Chisel out your own gold ore samplen01:15 — Exit mine and begin gold panning sessionn01:30 — “Keep what you find” panning lesson and free timen02:00 — Explore gift shop and heritage displays before departure

Price & Availability

Adults (15+): $35 • Children (4–14): $25 • Infants (3 & under): Free. Includes gold sample and mining tools.

Food & Drink

Outdoor panning in summer; indoor heated panning in winter. Guests may pan until closing time.

Instructions

Check in at Hidee Mine, 1950 Hidee Mine Rd, Central City. Free parking available on-site.

Restrictions

All ages welcome. Wheelchair and stroller access to 90% of mine. Minors must be accompanied by adult.

Transportation

Self-drive; located 45 minutes west of Denver near Central City.