Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine in Franklin, NC

Gem mining is a favorite pastime in the Franklin, North Carolina area and the Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine in Franklin, NC is a favorite with the locals and tourists alike. Located at the base of the Cowee Mountain, this mine is open all seven days of the week starting at 9:00 a.m. until the last straggling miner for the day leaves. Their typical "mining" season runs from March through the first half of December.

Admission to the Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine is free, which is a treat for the budget conscious, but they do charge for large groups. You can buy gem dirt in a bag or by the bucket so that you can search for the elusive ruby which has routinely been found in the mine. Provided with a screen for sifting, you head over to the flume which is basically a trough with water so that you can gently wash away the dirt to see if any rough gems are left behind.

If you do not mine your own souvenir, you can always purchase one in their gift shop that is on the premises. Staff at Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine is available to answer questions and work with you on your mining techniques.

The area around the mine is lovely and dotted with picnic tables if you wanted to take advantage of the beautiful setting. Situated near a bubbling brook, you could have an enjoyable outing with a picnic lunch and a try at mining a gemstone. Add Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine to your list of things to do in Franklin, NC.