Big Thunder Gold Mine - Keystone, SD

Big Thunder Gold Mine gives Mount Rushmore visitors the chance to tour an authentic gold mine and try their hand at mining! This attraction will bring you back to those exciting times.  Tour a real gold mine with knowledgeable and interesting tour guides. The mining museum is interesting and informative with displays detailing the era and showing what life was like for those who really "went for the gold." You can even take a part of that life back with you when you return to the 21^st century, with your own piece of gold ore.

About the Tour

During the tour of Big Thunder Gold Mine you'll be led by a knowledgeable guide as you experience one of the more prominent gold mines of the booming gold rush. Along the tour you'll not only get a first-hand look at a mine, but also learn more about the people that worked the mine.

About Gold Panning

The mine was discovered in 1882 and was a working mine until 1914. In 1913 it produced its biggest load and created the slope room. The mine has recently generated even more interest because of the possibility of another vein of ore. And with the Gold Panning option you'll be able to experience your own historic adventure by panning for gold in the stream. You may even strike it rich - and you're guaranteed to find gold! This is fun the whole family can enjoy.

About the Tour & Gold Panning Combo

As the name implies, this option provides both the guided tour and chance to gold mine for a complete experience that will first introduce you to the world of mining, and then immerse you in it.

Awards and Accolades

• Great Service Award
• This is one of the area's registered "Family Approved Attractions."

Tour Details

• Price includes the tour, admission to the museum, and panning for gold.
• Open from 8:00am - 8 pm (June - August), 9 am - 6 pm (May, Sept. Oct.)
• Cameras and video cameras are permitted.
• Handicapped Accessible.
• Casual dress is recommended.
• Concessions are available.
• Two gift shops onsite.
• Appropriate for all ages.
• Free Parking