Want to experience the very sights and sounds that gold miners did over 100 years ago? This unforgettable tour of Country Boy Mine allows you to travel over 1,000 feet, deep into a mountain and historic gold mine where you’ll see, hear, and smell just what the miners did a century ago. Not only that, but you can also pan for gold, pet burros, explore the authentic mine site, view the original equipment used in the mine, visit the general store, and slide down the historical 55-foot ore chute, at this unique mine near Denver. Grab your hard hats, ladies and gents, it’s gold time!
Mining played a vital role in Colorado's rich history, and Country Boy Mine is doing its part to preserve our state's legendary mining past. For over 20 years they've been offering tours, which afford visitors the opportunity to explore one of the oldest, largest, and most famed gold mines in Summit County.
In 1860, "French Pete" first discovered gold in the area now known as French Gulch in Breckenridge, CO, and Country Boy Mine was founded in 1887 at an elevation of 9,330 feet. In its early days, it was one of the biggest producers of gold and silver, and it later produced large amounts of high-quality lead and zinc for use in World War I and World War II.
On your excitingly unique mine tour, you'll venture over 1,000 feet into a mountain and authentic gold mine, where you'll experience the same sights, smells, and sounds miners did over 100 years ago. (And if you have to wear a hard hat, you know it's legit!)
During your tour, you'll learn how the tunnels were created and what tools were needed, and you'll even get a live demonstration of double jacking. (Pictured are miners using the jack leg drill in the 1890s.)
Your knowledgeable tour guide will also educate you on the perseverance and dedication miners were required to possess, as well as the inherent dangers they faced working in such harsh conditions underground. (If you think your job is tough, this will certainly put things in perspective!)
Examine old mining equipment, explore the historic mining site and buildings, and revisit Colorado's rich mining heritage through old photographs and exhibits.
Did you know that prior to child labor laws, the mining industry employed thousands of young boys, who toiled away in dangerous and unpredictable conditions deep underground? In today's modern world, we truly have a lot for which to be thankful. (Pictured is Otha Porter Martin, age 11.)
Other activities included in the Country Boy Mine tour is sliding down the original 55-foot ore chute, visiting the general store, and petting the pure bred Spanish burros that roam the property. When the mine was in operation, burros were used as fellow workers and hauled goods and equipment for the miners.
