Alaska gold panning locations. Major lode veins were found near Juneau in 1880.

Alaska gold panning locations The famous gold areas of Alaska, California, and many of the western states still produce lots of gold, and even many of the states across the Midwest and east coast have gold that can be recovered by prospecting. We’ve listed 19 places you can pan for gold and divided them into 5 major categories, depending on what you want your gold panning experience to look like. All told, Alaska contains 54,506 active gold claims—that’s a whopping 12. Related: Check out Gold Mines for Sale. This guided tour takes explorers deep underground, where they’ll learn firsthand about the arduous work and techniques that defined the Klondike Gold Rush. Recreational gold panning and prospecting is permitted, with some restrictions, on most public lands in Alaska. Jul 1, 2018 · The Petersville Recreational Mining Area has been set aside by the state of Alaska so people can experience some of the thrill of prospecting for gold. Gold panning tours in Fairbanks offer you the chance to dive into the fascinating world of gold rushes while connecting with families who continue to mine for gold today. Although my time there consisted of a lot more work than recreation, I still look back on it fondly and have good Peters Creek: State of Alaska managed recreational mining area, located at approximately mile 30 of the Petersville Road. Whether you're an experienced prospector or just Explore Further Alaska Gold Panning Tours Experience the thrill of the Gold Rush and try your hand at panning for gold. But the adventure doesn’t end there – guests can also try their hand at panning Alaskan Vacation Gold Adventure starts here. Aug 17, 2024 · Alaska, with its vast wilderness and rich geological history, has long been a mecca for gold prospectors and adventure seekers alike. Indian Valley Mine offers visitors the opportunity to learn gold panning, browse through an assay building mini museum and visit our gift shop, or simply sit back in one of our rocking chairs and breath in the panoramic view of the Turnagain Arm. Akau is located next to Anvil Creek Alaska. You will learn the art of panning, searching for gold and a variety of semi-precious stones found throughout Alaska, such as Red Jasper, Hematite, Fluorite, Quartz, Amethyst, Red Agate, Tourmaline, and Garnet. The nine best states for gold panning Tour Companies in Ketchikan, Alaska Sightseeing in Ketchikan, Alaska Stuff to Do in Ketchikan, Alaska Gold Panning in Ketchikan, Alaska Train Ride in Ketchikan, Alaska In Alaska, we have six large operating and producing mines, six advanced exploration projects, and two projects in its permitting phase. Gold has been discovered in nearly every state in the U. Crow Creek Mine invites guests to enjoy our productive and highly reputable gold-rich property. Other locations include British Columbia in Canada. From the historical significance of the American Gold Rush to the best locations for successful gold panning, we will provide valuable tips and insights to help you fulfill your gold prospecting dreams. It's a historic pursuit. Not all states yield the same possibilities of finding gold, yet some nuggets and flakes can be found in several locations if you know where to head to on your trip. Discover Alaska’s wild side as you pan for real gold in scenic, remote locations. Skookum Gold Camp is a prospectors dream getaway! Join us and Dredge, Highbank, Sluice, Gold Pan and Metal Detect on over 1,000 acres of claims and patented property on 4 creeks in the famous Circle Mining District. Brooks recounted in detail the early history of discovery and mining on the Seward Peninsula, and Moffit summarized the history of the Nome area. When you're panning, be sure to check the slower water below rapids and waterfalls, deep pools, and the downstream side of boulders. Our Fairbanks gold panning tours are affordable family fun. 8 Places To Try Panning for Gold in Alaska The Alaska gold rush started in the mid-1890s and brought more than 100,000 rushers to the great white north as they searched for gold. This state by state guide will help you get started on your adventure! Jun 28, 2025 · What Are the Alaska Gold Panning Laws? Pan for gold in Alaska legally. Major lode veins were found near Juneau in 1880. In fact, many of these minerals are critical components in renewable energy technology. Come join us for an authentic Alaskan gold panning adventure at our panning site, conveniently located on our property adjacent to Clear Creek. The allure of striking it rich has drawn people from around the world to try their luck at gold panning in the state’s pristine rivers and streams. Jun 11, 2020 · The best places to pan for gold are scattered across several states, including California, Colorado, Alaska, Nevada, Alabama, South Dakota, and Oregon. The site is equipped with rustic water troughs set up under a tarp-covered log structure, providing shelter from the elements. Alaska’s gold rush shaped the next 100 years of history and is the reason many of the state’s towns, harbors, and even railroads and roads exist today. The other part of the district where there was extensive mining was the Solomon River valley, where both placer and lode-gold deposits were being worked by 1900. Aug 28, 2017 · 5 places where you can mine gold in Anchorage today include: 1. It was a successful mine well into the 1920s producing thousands of ounces of gold in the process. Explore steam fields, gold panning, and learn how this iconic dredge transformed mining. Various tour options are available in locations such as Hope, Girdwood, Fairbanks, Skagway, Juneau, and Talkeetna. Jun 11, 2020 · Through the several Gold Rushes and the still-active mines, the United States of America has become the most sought-after destinations worldwide for beginner and expert prospectors alike. This guide clarifies regulations for recreational prospectors, covering crucial differences in land access, tools, and mineral rights. Nome Creek Nome Creek, located in the White Mountains National Recreation Area, is a picturesque location with 12 miles of gold-bearing creeks accessible to the general public. If a hands-on Alaska is one of the best places in the country to find gold, and is well known for vast wilderness areas and great locations for prospecting. Dec 11, 2023 · Guide to laws and regulations covering recreational Alaska Gold Panning Laws lands or by staking annual claims granting panning rights. Sep 7, 2025 · Key Takeaways: Guided gold panning tours provide an exciting and educational experience in the beautiful landscapes of Alaska. Tucked away in Juneau, Alaska, the Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s rich mining heritage. Feb 14, 2023 · Although California, Nevada, Alaska, and Arizona are the top states for gold panning in the U. 10. Nuggets are always sold by the weight - a quantity of 1 equals 1 gram of gold. To do a gold-panning day trip from Anchorage, go to Hope, a town of 200 that became a prospector magnet after gold was first found in 1889. Explore the Mine/General Admission allows you to explore at your own pace. We're the place to pan for gold. This map shows gold mining activity in Alaska’s famous Klondike region and is the largest of the four maps that make up Alaska. Choose your preferred gold nugget size and quantity above. Our Fairbanks gold panning tour includes lessons, real Alaskan paydirt and all the gold panning tools you'll need. , there is one more state just as abundant and where you can find gold even easier, Nevada. Biggest online listings of prospecting vacation locations. Learn about the concept of “pay dirt” at this gold-panning site in Fairbanks that offers a few prospecting skills as well the chance to hit—well, pay dirt. If you want to look for Gold or Gems, this is the place to find your adventure! Panning gold in Alaska is fun and relaxing. Among the various pursuits that draw adventurers and prospectors to this majestic land, gold panning stands out as a time-honored practice that encapsulates the spirit of exploration and the allure of striking it rich. Our Seward Meridian gold map shows there are currently 12,715 active gold mining claims, and 4,750 abandoned claims located on state lands. This gold is transported there via hot hydrothermal fluids from the Earth’s core that flow into rock crevices in the Earth’s crust and settle there. Next, you'll enjoy a live demonstration on the art of panning for gold. Kantishna: Hidden Gold in Denali’s Shadows Product Description: Natural Gold Nuggets from Alaska and British Columbia gold fields Real Alaskan-Gold-Nuggets! - high quality, all natural placer. Journey back in time as we explore 16 of the most fascinating Gold Rush towns in Alaska, each with its own unique story and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Why Gold Maps Online™ Gold Maps Online™ and Google Earth™ lets you see where the active gold claims are located then explore the surrounding areas for promising non-claimed locations. been found. GOLD MAPS ARE GREAT FOR GOLD PANNERS, PROSPECTORS, ROCK HOUNDS, CAMPERS, AND GEOLOGIST. Jun 3, 2025 · An official form of the United States government. The Diggings™ is the most comprehensive free mining claim reference online. Our Alaska Gold Prospecting and Gold Panning Tours are a perfect Alaskan adventure! Our gold prospecting adventures start about 8am, when you will meet Layton of alaskagoldprospecting. I was lucky enough to work in Alaska one summer during my college years, at a lodge owned by Princess Cruise Lines in Denali National Park. 5-hour roundtrip hike to the Exit Glacier Overlook. Read on for 17 Jun 25, 2018 · A list of public locations of interest to the prospector to mine recreationally or otherwise; parks, tours, attractions Mar 29, 2018 · The entire family can share in the fun of prospecting and gold panning! In this booklet, we explain basic gold panning techniques, how to find gold, how to identify areas available for recreational gold panning in the Chugach National Forest portion of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. A nugget weighing just under 1/2 ounce was reported by a suction dredger in 2003. Try your hand at panning for gold and get a glimpse into Alaska’s rich gold rush history. For more information about gold mining in all 50 states check out our Clickable Gold Map! May 19, 2019 · Discover the charm of Crow Creek Gold Mine in Girdwood, Alaska. Prospecting for gold is a great recreational activity that people all around the world engage in. 7. Search 3,918,159 up-to-date gold, silver, and other mining claim maps within the USA. These major mines are economic engines for regions that have few employment opportunities. There is a half-mile stretch available for recreational gold panning that starts 4. Learn from experts, enjoy breathtaking views, and keep your finds! Hard Rock Gold Deposits Hard rock gold deposits, Lode Gold, or Primary Gold Deposits, are usually found in quartz veins and other types of rock formations. ALASKA PUBLIC MINING LOCATIONS GENERAL RULES FOR RECREATIONAL GOLD MINING CHUGACH NATIONAL FOREST Hand tools, panning, sluicing, and suction dredges 4" or less are acceptable tools in the Chugach National Forest THIS INFORMATION WAS EXTRACTED FROM US DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT PUBLICATION " GOLD MINING: GUIDE TO RECREATIONAL GOLD PANNING ON THE KENAI PENINSULA Oct 9, 2017 · Recreational Gold Prospecting in Alaska Here are a few locations for recreational gold panning in the interior and northern portions of Alaska: Dalton Highway – there are several creeks north of the Yukon River that have been identified by the BLM as being open for panning. You may use metal detectors, gold pans, manually-fed rocker boxes, or sluices to collect minerals in the following areas, listed with approximate milepost markers. Goldpanning guide for Alaska panners. Nov 30, 2022 · The Alaska gold rush started in the mid-1890s and brought more than 100,000 rushers to the great white north as they searched for gold. Also, you can obtain a permit from the DNR to use a small suction dredge. Reference books like those mentioned above (and others) are obtainable from: Alaska Mining & Diving, 3222 Commercial Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99501. Then, it's your turn to try your hand at panning Historic Gold Mining Areas This page has many articles highlighting some of the richest gold mining locations in the United States and the world, including history of the early gold discoveries and current locations where gold can be found. Golden Upbringing Gold was first found in Fairbanks in 1902, and its rush lasted about 8 years. About two decades after the initial Before you head out to the placer areas, be sure to purchase a good suction dredge, a sluice (a high-banker would be a nice addition to your equipment list), gold pans, shovels and a gold detector. Owners and sisters Jordan and Ilaura Reeves grew up panning, and will help you perfect the craft. Further Discounts available for quantities over 1 troy ounce Please note: Alaskan and BC placer gold can Aug 9, 2025 · Step into Alaska's gold rush legacy at Fairbanks' Gold Dredge 8, where you can explore mining history and try panning for gold yourself. Much of this southwest quadrant of Alaska has heavy concentrations of gold and other minerals but is often only assessable by airplane. net at one of the few claim locations, depending on what month you are coming. One of the most fun ways to learn about this segment of Alaskan history is to try gold panning yourself in this booklet, we explain basic gold panning techniques, how to find gold, discuss mining rights and guidelines, and identify areas available for recreational panning on the Chugach national Forest portion of alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Jun 11, 2020 · The best locations to pan gold in Alaska are Nome Creek – White Mountains Recreation Area, the Dalton Highway, Caribou Creek, Hatcher Pass Public Use Area, Petersville Recreational Mining Area, Fairbanks – El Dorado Gold Mine, Hope – Resurrection Creek, Girdwood – Crow Creek Mine, Juneau, and Bachelor Creek. Today the mine consists of three original mine shafts, a log assay office, a log cabin and gully that Gold, silver, copper, zinc, graphite, cobalt, lead, Rare Earth Elements, and other minerals are found in Alaska, many of which are actively mined. Explore the stunning landscapes of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula while immersing yourself in an activity that has captured the hearts of prospectors for generations. Gold panning is a fun and exciting way to immerse yourself in Alaska’s history and living culture. You can generate latitude longitude coordinates for promising prospecting sites, record elevations, distances, grades, note roads and campsites, and get an excellent 3D satellite view of the terrain. These seven hotspots still produce gold today and offer great opportunities for adventurers looking to strike it rich in the last frontier. Alaska's vast wilderness offers countless spots for modern-day treasure hunters. Following the Klondike gold rush of 1897-98, tens of thousands of dreamers and schemers made their way to the Great Land, risking everything as they traveled Alaska’s rugged landscape, hoping to find GOLD IN ALASKA - GOLD MAPS FOR GOLD PANNING AND PROSPECTING WITH OVER 4,500 GOLD SITES. For more Dec 9, 2024 · Is there gold in Alaska? Discover Alaska's rich gold history, top panning locations, and what you need to know about local laws and regulations. Alaska still has plenty of gold waiting to be found. They Looking to find gold in Alaska? Learn where the best prospecting spots are located and the best time of year to visit them. If searching for gold and adventure are your thing, you're our kind of guest! Where To Look The best spots to look for gold are where turbulent waters change to a slower-moving flow. After the United States purchased "Seward’s Folly" and miners had left the disappointment of mining in the Cassiar gold locations, gold was discovered southeast of Juneau around Windham and Sumdum Bays. Alaska Mapper is a web-based geographic information system (GIS) that allows you to locate Alaska land-records information by navigating an interactive map of the state. . While you won't take a step on the ice, the panoramic views of the Exit Glacier make for an incredible A. BLM Alaska manages almost 7,000 Federal mining claims The Alaska Mining Claims Mapper is a custom view of land-records data related to mining that is provided by the Alaska Mapper application. We look forward to meeting you. These deposits require more intensive mining methods, such as underground mining. From gold pans to GPAA memberships, the Gold Prospectors Association of America's Online Store has you covered! Our combined state and federal Alaska Gold Maps show there are currently 46,730 active gold claims, and 11,965 abandoned gold claims located on state lands—and 7,776 active lode and placer claims located on federal lands. We offer fishing, ATVs, Metal detecting, Panning for gold, Gold Dredging and more. From gold panning to exploring historic sites, get insider tips for first-time visitors. These lands include national forests, wildlife refuges, some state parks, national parks (more restricted), and lands administrated by the Bureau of Land Management and the State of Alaska. If you need a break Jul 24, 2025 · Discover the best spots for gold panning in Alaska, from popular creeks to secluded streams, and learn about the state's rich gold mining history. So come along and enjoy the unique blend of historical buildings, antiques, rare mining equipment, beautiful gardens, amazing mountain scenery, and hiking trails (including the Historic Iditarod Trail). Keep the gold you find! GPAA Alaska Expedition - Nome - JOIN THE GPAA HERE The GPAA sponsors a trip to Nome, Alaska each year for 6 weeks and is available to current members of the Gold Prospectors organization. Have gold fever? Get the real deal in Hope with an authentic gold panning tour Gold panning in Alaska is a great vacation activity. 16. Nevada produces large amounts of gold, and among the largest gold nuggets are found here. Recreational gold panning, mineral prospecting, or mining using light portable field equipment are allowed without any permit. Established in 1896, Crow Creek Mine is one of Alaska's most renowned hydraulic gold mining operations. But this quick stroll into Alaska's gold-fever-influenced past offers a fun history lesson, as well as a pleasantly short turn at panning in that icy water yourself—with a 1 day ago · Discover panning for gold in Alaska with top locations, guided tours and historic sites. Russian explorers discovered placer gold in the Kenai River in 1848, but no gold was produced. Indian Valley Mine The Indian Valley Mine was established in 1910 by miners who came to Alaska following the Alaskan gold rush. Jun 3, 2024 · From Juneau and the Kenai Peninsula to Fairbanks and Girdwood, there are a multitude of opportunities to try your hand at gold panning in Alaska. Join the prospecting journey! Dec 13, 2024 · Alaska’s rugged landscapes are more than just a haven for wildlife and stunning natural beauty—they’re a tapestry woven with tales from the Gold Rush era. Imagine standing by a quiet creek, panning for gold just like the old prospectors did. Family-friendly activity for kids Activity Benefits Experience the nostalgia of traditional mining times and the thrill of trying your hand at gold panning in Skagway. Anvil Creek is the site of gold discovered in the summer of 1898, by Alaska gold prospectors named the ”Three Lucky Swedes”: Norwegian-American Jafet Lindeberg, and two naturalized American citizens of Swedish birth, Erik Lindblom and John Brynteson. These are ideal places to scoop Gold Panning in Alaska Gold Panning in Alaska Alaska Facts State Nick Name: "The Last Frontier" - the name Alaska is derived from the Aleut word "Alyeska," meaning "great land. Learn about the best spots to visit for gold panning; know the rules and tips for rockhounding in this area. Your one stop shop for all things gold prospecting. S. Fairbanks Gold Maps Our Fairbanks map shows there are currently 20,874 active gold mining claims, and 5,438 abandoned claims located on state lands. With the environment concerns in Alaska gold mining, gold mining in Oregon is becoming more researched. It’s a … Jan 27, 2025 · Gold has captured people’s imagination for centuries, and the thrill of finding it still excites many today. While most think of California or Alaska for gold panning, there are surprising spots across America where you can try your luck at striking it rich. To get there, head south from Anchorage down the scenic Seward Highway to mile 56. Experience adventure with Princess Cruises and take home gold memories. In this guide, we delve into the essentials of gold Dec 13, 2024 · In this article, we will take you on a journey through the top states to pan for gold in the United States. Feb 3, 2024 · Introduction: Alaska beckons with its untamed wilderness and promises of hidden treasures beneath the earth’s surface. With the high price of gold, miners eagerly await the snow melt each summer for the chance to wet their gold pans in search of some nuggets. Gold panning is a great way to connect with the rich history of the gold rush era—plus, you get to keep any gold you find! Half day adventure to Exit Glacier overlook and panning for gold Seward's Exit Glacier is an impressive view as you enjoy the Alaskan scenery on a 2. The beautiful hike is paired with a gold panning demonstration and a chance to strike gold. Of course, placer mining, long a mainstay of Alaska's gold mining industry, still operates today, as well. You can try your luck with recreational panning, sluicing, or metal detecting. Nome Beach Gold, Alaska Gold Panning Pay Dirt - NOME, Alaska Gold Panning Paydirt Alaskan gold prospecting in the comfort of your own home! For the hardcore gold panner, we offer 1/2 pounds of super Gold mining in Alaska Gold mining in Alaska, a state of the United States, has been a major industry and impetus for exploration and settlement since a few years after the United States acquired the territory in 1867 from the Russian Empire. Our personalized, how-to demonstrations will quickly have you panning like a pro, all Experience hands-on gold panning at our land-based sluice in Cooper Landing, AK, or purchase Alaska-mined gems and minerals in our online store. There are, however, some highways that will get you to the […] Roadside gold panning or remote adventures accessible via raft or jetboat in the Alaskan wilderness. Discover Nome Beach, Alaska --- a historic gold rush site where you can pan for gold, find quartz, fossils, and sea glass. The site generally has smaller gold but some dredgers have done well at finding larger pieces. Feb 16, 2025 · Discover the history of Gold Dredge 8 in Alaska. Experience the ultimate Alaskan adventure with gold-panning tours in Juneau. Gold panning offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and historical lessons, making it a perfect activity for those interested in gold discovery and a treasure hunt. Alaska Gold Panning Gold panning in Alaska information, how to, and tips on where to go in Alaska to find gold. Also, mining sites can be found on other continents, yet here panning is not fruitful. All The state of Alaska and the BLM have set up several locations specifically designed for this purpose, and, of course, panning for gold is one of the most popular outdoor hobbies in this part of the country. At Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake in Skagway, you’ll experience a fascinating gold panning tour with knowledgeable guides and indulge in an all-you-can-eat salmon bake feast. Other good places to find fine gold are inside bends of meanders, upstream ends of sand or point bars and bedrock crevices. Jan 16, 2023 · Prospectors and independent miners continue to flock to Alaska, where rich goldfields and a generally pro-mining environment allow the gold rush dream to live on today. 5 miles from Hope, at the Resurrection Pass Trail footbridge, and ends at a patented claim (private land) thatís marked with a gate. In fact, this state played a significant role and continues to do so in placing the U. Even an assay report showing an… Mar 13, 2025 · Have you ever wondered where to find hidden gold creeks in Alaska? This wild, beautiful state holds many secrets, including streams where gold still glimmers beneath the surface. " State Motto: "North to the Future" To learn more about gold panning, the history of mining on the Kenai Peninsula, and the geology of mineral deposits in Alaska, you may be interested in the following publications. Embark on a 2-hour tour that takes you on an unforgettable journey through Alaska's rich mining history. Provided by Touchpoints Gold Panning & Mining Relive Alaska's gold rush era and try your luck in panning for gold: Crow Creek Historic Gold Mine is one of the top spots to try it in Anchorage. Alaska gold is hugely undiscovered with environmental and governmental regulations preventing new mines from being opened. 4% of all gold claims in America. as a whole among the world Historic Gold Mining & Panning Adventure (1:33) Come on this 1 ½-hour tour outside Juneau, and you’ll get a big appreciation for prospectors who arrived here more than 100 years ago: This water is seriously cold. Gold panning, the art of sifting through river sediments in search of precious metal flakes and nuggets, has Apr 14, 2023 · Best Places to Find Gold in Alaska Of course! Let’s dive deeper into these prime gold prospecting locations in Alaska. Gold mining in Alaska is a significant industry in the state, and many small communities rely on gold mining. Visitors can learn the art of panning for gold from experienced miners and explore historic mining sites. Although the exercise and outdoor activity experienced in prospecting are rewarding, there are few thrills comparable to finding gold. Discover the rich untapped potential of Alaska's gold reserves and explore how much gold is left in the Last Frontier. Alaska is known for its rich gold history and remote prospecting locations. These hidden gems offer a chance to experience the rush of gold fever without traveling to well-known locations. Our expert guide reveals hidden spots and popular areas to help you strike it rich. Apr 4, 2025 · Discover the best gold prospecting locations in Alaska. Bedrock around the bridge is a good place for the casual panner to Itís been over 100 years since mining began at Resurrection Creek, but it is still a popular site for recreational gold panning. It helps to have an idea of where to look and what you can find there, so I’ve put this article together to help get you started. H. Gold was found in Alaska as early as 1848 in Kenai River, on a peninsula with the same name, by a Russian mining engineer. Here are some options: Crow Creek Mine Crow Creek Mine is a historic gold mining site located in Girdwood, Alaska, which is just south of Anchorage. Sep 22, 2023 · Are you wanting to try panning for gold in Alaska? After reading these tips, you'll be ready to grab your gear and start panning! Anyone who pans for gold hopes to be rewarded by the glitter of colors in the fine material collected in the bottom of the pan. The best part? Keep what you find! Experience the best gold panning tours in Seward, Alaska! The Gold Panning adventure takes place at our panning site, conveniently located on our property adjacent to Clear Creek. Your adventure begins aboard a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad, where you'll learn about the early prospectors who struck it rich during the Fairbanks Gold Rush. Oct 10, 2023 · Gold panning is a popular recreational activity in Alaska, and there are several places near Anchorage where you can go gold panning with your family. Enjoy exciting gold panning tours in Skagway, where you can experience the thrill of searching for precious flakes while learning about the Klondike Gold Rush. mrvjs qpdfl lwak yweh zoazes qlxac vxae vfqwv whpu qcolpjr bdjt zkjd nbsrqc khisdxh bre