Amethyst Mine Panorama
Dig for your own vibrant purple amethyst crystals at this unique mine near Thunder Bay, Ontario. A fun, hands-on adventure for all ages!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Amethyst Mine Panorama
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dig for your own vibrant purple amethyst crystals at this unique mine near Thunder Bay, Ontario. A fun, hands-on adventure for all ages!
"This place rocks! Tim and his team run an operation that is truly guaranteed to give you a great experience."
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for digging.
Bring buckets & tools :bucket:
While buckets and digging bars are provided, bringing your own can be helpful for larger finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Amethyst Digging
Mine Site
Unearth your own vibrant purple amethyst crystals. A truly hands-on and rewarding experience for all ages.
Informative Mine Tour
Mine Entrance
Learn about the fascinating history and geology of amethyst mining from knowledgeable guides.
Washing & Weighing Station
Onsite
Clean and admire your amethyst finds at the washing station before weighing and purchasing them.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dig Your Own Amethyst Treasure
Getting There & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for digging.
Bring buckets & tools :bucket:
While buckets and digging bars are provided, bringing your own can be helpful for larger finds.
Don't miss the tour! :information_desk:
The guided tour offers valuable insights into the mine's history and geology.
Buy more than you think! :gem:
You might want to go back for more, so get a good selection while you're there.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for digging.
Bring buckets & tools :bucket:
While buckets and digging bars are provided, bringing your own can be helpful for larger finds.
Don't miss the tour! :information_desk:
The guided tour offers valuable insights into the mine's history and geology.
Buy more than you think! :gem:
You might want to go back for more, so get a good selection while you're there.
Check seasonal hours :calendar:
The mine is typically open from June 1st to October 1st. Always confirm before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Amethyst Mine Panorama for its fun, hands-on experience and the quality of amethyst found. The friendly staff and informative tours enhance the visit, making it a highly recommended stop for families and gem enthusiasts alike. While there's an entrance fee, most feel it's well worth the value for the unique opportunity to dig for your own treasures.
"First time visiting Amethyst Mine Panorama and it was a really enjoyable experience. The gravel road leading in is fairly well maintained, so the drive was easy. There is an entrance fee, unlike some of the other mines, but it includes about a 20 minute tour that explains the mine and its history, which we found interesting and worthwhile.
This mine provides buckets and a bar for digging, but for safety reasons you are not allowed to do your own mining or chipping. That worked well for us since we had one of the kids along. We still had a great time searching for pieces we liked and finding a few nice ones to take home. There is also a washing table where you can clean your finds and get a better look at them, which made it more fun for the kids and added to the experience.
Overall, it was a good visit and I would recommend stopping by if you are in the area, especially if you enjoy something a little different and hands on."
Jason
"Fantastic place! We visited this mine two days in a row. We stayed there from open to close in the first day. Only stayed 3 hours on the second day due to catch a flight in the evening. This place is well organized. Great owner and nice staffs. My two boys had so much fun. We found a lot of gorgeous amethyst over 70+lbs!!! Can't wait to see how it looks after iron wash out. Will definitely visit again."
Cutepig T
"I had an absolutely perfect day at Tim's amethyst mine! Seriously, this place rocks. Tim and his team run an operation that is truly guaranteed to give you a great experience.
Tim's knowledge of the stones is incredible—it's crystal-clear that he loves what he does. He really helped us dig deep and get the most out of our time. The staff made the whole process feel less like toil and more like a treasure hunt for purple gold!
The amethysts I found were stunning! They were such a vibrant shade of purple. Finding them felt like I truly struck the right rock! I got a few gorgeous, chunky pieces; they're going to make a wonderful addition to my collection.
If you are looking for a fantastic time and beautiful finds, you absolutely must visit Tim's mine. It's a truly mine-blowing good time, and I guarantee you'll have fun. You'll be mining your own business (of finding great rocks) for hours!
A definite five-star experience! Thanks, Tim, for a rock-solid adventure! We'll share a hot dog again someday :)"
John Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amethyst Mine Panorama is located approximately 65 km east of Thunder Bay, Ontario. Public transport options are limited, and Uber/Lyft may not be readily available for the entire distance, making a car or organized tour the most convenient options.
Public transport to Amethyst Mine Panorama is very limited. Travelers have noted that Uber/Lyft may not be a viable option for the entire journey, suggesting that driving or arranging alternative transport is recommended.
The drive to Amethyst Mine Panorama includes a gravel road, which is generally well-maintained and manageable for most vehicles.
Yes, Amethyst Mine Panorama is a great trip for everyone, including dogs!
The mine is typically open for tours and amethyst digging from June 1st until October 1st, rain or shine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee to Amethyst Mine Panorama, which typically includes a 20-minute tour explaining the mine and its history.
After the entrance fee, you can purchase amethyst you dig for approximately $5 per pound.
While not explicitly stated, booking in advance is always a good idea, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for tours and digging times.
The mine is described as great for kids and adults,
The entrance fee typically includes an informative tour about the mine and its history.
🎫 💎 Onsite Experience
It's recommended to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity is also advised.
Yes, visitors can dig for their own amethyst crystals.
The mine is described as having amethysts everywhere, making it easy to find them.
The washing station allows you to clean your amethyst finds, making it easier to see their true color and beauty.
It's recommended to spend a minimum of 30 minutes here,+1 but many visitors stay much longer, even from open to close.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photos are generally allowed and encouraged. Many visitors share their finds and experiences on social media.
The mine site itself, with its unique rock formations and the amethysts you find, offers great photo opportunities. The washing station also provides a good backdrop for showcasing your treasures.
While not explicitly stated, it's always best to check with management if you plan on extensive professional photography or videography.
Generally, no specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and the operational areas of the mine.
A macro lens can be excellent for capturing the intricate details of amethyst crystals. Natural light is often best for showcasing their color.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The entrance fee includes an educational tour that can captivate young minds with stories about the mine and the geology of amethyst. The washing station is also a hit with kids, allowing them to clean and admire their finds. It's a safe and fun environment where children can learn about geology while having an adventure. Remember to dress them in sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor exploration.
💎 Gemstone Enthusiasts & Rockhounds
+1 The guided tour provides valuable geological context, and the ability to dig your own specimens allows for a personalized collection-building experience.Many visitors rave about the quality of the amethyst found here, with some discovering exceptionally valuable pieces.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The experience offers a refreshing break from driving, combining outdoor activity with a chance to discover natural treasures.Plan for at least a few hours to fully enjoy the digging and the informative tour. The cost is reasonable, especially considering you get to take home your own amethyst finds. It's a memorable activity that adds a unique dimension to any travel itinerary in the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Thunder Bay Amethyst
At Amethyst Mine Panorama, visitors get to interact directly with these geological treasures. The mine operates in a quarry-like setting, making it accessible for visitors to dig for their own specimens. The process involves using provided tools to excavate the amethyst-bearing rock. The mine's co-owner emphasizes the importance of understanding the mine and its history during tours, providing an educational component to the adventure.
This hands-on approach allows people to connect with the earth's natural artistry and take home a piece of this ancient phenomenon.Many visitors are thrilled by the quality and quantity of amethyst found at the mine. Some have even discovered exceptionally large and valuable pieces, with one TikTok video showcasing a $50,000 amethyst crystal.
Planning Your Amethyst Digging Adventure
The drive from Thunder Bay is about 65 km east, and while the gravel road is generally well-maintained, it's advisable to have a vehicle suitable for such terrain.Upon arrival, there's an entrance fee that covers an informative tour, which many visitors find worthwhile for understanding the mine's history and the geology of amethyst.
After the tour, you'll be equipped with buckets and digging bars to start your treasure hunt.+1Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing, as the digging area can be uneven.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit