Most American’s are familiar with the famous California “Gold Rush” of 1849 – in fact, the state has a professional sport’s team named after the event! What most people don’t realize, though, is that the California “rush” wasn’t the first event of gold being found in the United States. In fact, the “gold rush” of northern Georgia occurred first – right here in the Helen and Dahlonega areas. To this day, there are a number of gold mines that open their doors to tourists, teaching them how to pan for gold and precious stones, and offering them the experience of a lifetime. Are you ready to see what treasures you can uncover here in northern Georgia? If so, you won’t want to miss out on Duke’s Creek Gold & Ruby Mines.
Duke’s Creek Gold & Ruby Mines | 6145 Helen Highway
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Gold & Precious Stone Mining Overview
Gold still abides in northern Georgia, and the folks at Duke’s Creek know it. That’s why they have a group of expert gold and ruby panners ready and available to teach guests like yourself the tricks of the trade. History enthusiasts, adventure seekers, gold diggers, and curious families alike will have a great time bonding together as they seek out treasure right here in Helen’s own Duke’s Creek. Duke’s Creek Gold & Ruby Mines professes itself to be the “best operating gold & gem mine” here in White County. You don’t just have to take our word for it, though. You’ll quickly find yourself mesmerized by the beauty of the area, and you’re sure to find something special during your excursion. It was only due to the sheer volume of gold, rubies, and sapphires that were discovered at Duke’s Creek that the mine ever decided to open its doors to the public. Featuring an abundance of precious stones, Duke’s Creek guarantees that everyone who visits will find something special to return home with.
You’ve got a few different options for gold and gem panning here at Duke’s Creek. Many people enjoy to choose a random bucket that’s filled with mixed gems and gold ore in order to screen them in one of the facility’s many convenient panning tables – with, of course, the assistance of skilled and seasoned panners. These mixed gold and gem pans are available in small, large, and family sizes and include rubies, sapphires, amethysts, agates, apache tears, emeralds, and many other precious stones. If you’re looking solely for gold, ask for a premier gold bucket. You may also choose to inquire about the facility’s fossil, blood stone, and quartz crystal buckets. The mining crew consists of experts who have been in the business for more than 40 years, learning about and understanding how to recognize certain precious stones and metals. These pros will show you everything you need to know about how to properly screen your buckets and label your extraordinary findings. Should you come upon something extremely special, you might even take the stone or metal into the shop and ask that it be st for you into a piece of jewelry that can become a lifelong souvenir and heirloom. You’ll find stones that will create lasting memories at Duke’s Creek.
Family Friendliness
There are few better ways to spend your day than panning for precious stones and gold at Duke’s Creek. You and your family will have a blast together as you learn about the different stones that you may be able to find within your buckets, and how to go about panning for those minerals together. As a group, you’ll exclaim with excitement over your findings, and have fun identifying exactly which stones and minerals you have come across. Every moment will be a “Kodak” moment. You’ll create memories that are sure to last a lifetime, and excavate memories that you will be able to keep forever.
Planning Ahead
Duke’s Creek Gold & Ruby Mines are located just a stone’s throw away from the Helen cabins, making them extremely convenient for our visitors. In order to get the most out of your experience, you’ll want to plan for at least a few hours at the facility so that you can properly sort through your precious stone and mineral ore buckets and findings. Due to the fact that you’ll be outdoors for the majority of the experience, we would strongly recommend that you take the time to purchase sunscreen in advance and apply a generous layer to all family and group members as a protective measure against the sun’s UV rays.
