Big Thunder Gold Mine - Keystone, SD

This attraction will bring you back to those exciting times when the Black Hills of South Dakota were first settled. Tour a real gold mine with knowledgeable and interesting tour guides. The mining museum is a fascinating and informative site 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 21st century with your own piece of gold ore.

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 the mine but also learn more about the people who worked the mine in its glory days.

Gold Panning

The mine was built in 1895 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. 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 a unique experience the whole family can enjoy.

Tour & Gold Panning Combo

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 let you see all of the historic exhibits on-site.