Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine
Descend 1,000 feet into Colorado's gold rush history on an immersive tour of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, educational
Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine
Best Time
Less crowded, educational
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend 1,000 feet into Colorado's gold rush history on an immersive tour of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.
"A fantastic trip down 1,000 feet into Colorado history! Highly recommend!"
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's a cool 50°F (10°C) underground year-round. Don't forget layers!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are a must for walking in the mine tunnels. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
1,000-Foot Descent
Mine Elevator
Experience a thrilling ride 1,000 feet underground in a historic mine elevator, a unique journey into the earth's depths.
Live Mining Demonstrations
Mine Tunnels
Witness fascinating demonstrations of old mining equipment and techniques, bringing the history of gold prospecting to life.
Geological Wonders
Mine Tunnels
Explore the natural beauty of the mine, observing unique mineral formations and the raw geology of the earth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for the Descent
Dress for the Underground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's a cool 50°F (10°C) underground year-round. Don't forget layers!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are a must for walking in the mine tunnels. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
🤏 Be Prepared for Tight Spaces
The mine elevator is cozy! If you're claustrophobic, be aware.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Jacket!
It's a cool 50°F (10°C) underground year-round. Don't forget layers!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Closed-toe shoes are a must for walking in the mine tunnels. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
🤏 Be Prepared for Tight Spaces
The mine elevator is cozy! If you're claustrophobic, be aware.
💡 Ask Questions!
Guides are knowledgeable and love to share insights about mining history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour for its educational value and engaging guides, particularly Mark and Patrick. The underground elevator ride and demonstrations of mining equipment are highlighted as memorable experiences. While the tight quarters of the elevator are noted, most find the overall experience well worth the admission price.
"Great tour! So glad we did it! Our tour guide Mark”? was great! He seemed genuinely excited about the history of the mine and was easy to listen to. I was hesitant about the elevator ride down after reading other reviews, but it wasn’t too bad. Tight as sardines if you are claustrophobic you should know that. Also, the ride down & back up is about 95% dark and the elevator rattles & rocks slightly. But worth the trip down/up. Very educational and the hour went by quickly."
Steele Steele
"My husband and I went on this tour today, our guide was Patrick. We had a great time! The mine shaft elevator is pretty tight quarters but really neat. We loved all of the demonstrations of the actual old mining equipment and learned a lot. Patrick was a lot of fun and great with the kids on the tour. We got to see a lot of informational items as well as some cool mineral formations. Would absolutely recommend."
Sarah Dill
"For quick summary details, go to bottom of review.
This was an absolutely outstanding tour of the mines. Not only do you get to see mines, but you get to see equipment used, and a demonstration. Also, our tour guide, Mark, was extremely great at the tour. He was making some jokes while going through the tour and just causing some laughs while explaining each part of the mines in great detail and expertise. And on top of the mines experience back at the gift shop, no pun intended, the staff were excellent, understanding, and kind. And bathrooms are very nice and clean. To any staff that see this, I appreciate your kindness and respect. Also, I suggest bringing a jacket, as it's a nice 50° F in the mines, or be like my crazy Texan mind and not even bring a jacket to Colorado! Best experience we have had in our 3 days of being in Colorado! Went on 6/7/2024 at near 1:30 and the tour began at 2:00.
*QUICK READ INFO
Temp: 50° F
Depth: 1,000 ft
Our Guide: Mark (great guide)"
Corey Holt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is located in Cripple Creek, Colorado. It's accessible by car, and many visitors combine a trip here with exploring the historic town. Parking is available on-site.
The mine is about a 2-hour drive southwest of Denver, making it a feasible day trip for those staying in the city.
From Denver, take US-285 S to US-24 W towards Buena Vista/Colorado Springs. Continue on US-24 W, then take the exit for CO-67 S towards Cripple Creek. Follow CO-67 S into Cripple Creek, and the mine will be on your right.
Public transportation directly to the mine is limited. Most visitors drive. Consider ride-sharing services or organized tours if you don't have a car.
Absolutely! The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is a popular addition to itineraries for visitors in Colorado Springs, often combined with attractions like Garden of the Gods or Pikes Peak.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically range from $20-$30 for adults. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
You can purchase tickets directly on the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine's official website or at their on-site ticket office. Booking online in advance is recommended to guarantee your spot.
While coupons aren't always readily available, it's worth checking local tourism websites or Cripple Creek visitor guides for potential discounts. Sometimes, package deals with other local attractions might be offered.
The mine typically operates daily during the warmer months, with tours running at scheduled intervals. Hours can change seasonally, so always verify their current operating schedule online before your visit.
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but the confined spaces in the mine elevator and tunnels might be challenging for very young children or individuals with severe claustrophobia.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour involves a descent 1,000 feet underground via a mine elevator, followed by a guided walk through the tunnels. You'll see mining equipment, learn about history, and witness geological formations. 
The guided tour typically lasts about an hour, providing an immersive experience into the world of gold mining.
The temperature inside the mine remains a consistent 50°F (10°C) year-round, so bringing a jacket is highly recommended.
The elevator ride is a unique experience, descending 1,000 feet in about 2 minutes. It can be a bit rattling and dark, and the space is tight, but guides ensure safety.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a jacket or sweater due to the constant 50°F temperature.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the mine, but be mindful of your surroundings and the safety of others. Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the delicate environment.
The entrance to the mine, the historic equipment displays, and the unique rock formations within the tunnels offer great photo opportunities. The view overlooking the active mine next door is also impressive.
While tripods and large equipment are usually not permitted due to space constraints, your personal camera or smartphone should be fine for capturing memories.
The mine is dimly lit by artificial lights, creating a dramatic atmosphere. Some areas are quite dark, so a camera with good low-light performance or a steady hand is beneficial.
You can find many Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine photos on Instagram by searching relevant hashtags like #molliekathleengoldmine, or on Google Images using search terms like 'Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine interior'.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress everyone in layers, as the mine is consistently cool. Comfortable shoes are essential for little explorers. While the tour is generally safe, be mindful of any young children who might be sensitive to confined spaces or darkness. The educational aspect makes it a great way to supplement school learning about history and geology.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks, as options at the mine might be limited to a gift shop. The drive to Cripple Creek can be scenic, so enjoy the journey as part of your budget-friendly adventure. Visiting during weekdays can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.
💑 Couples & History Buffs
After the tour, explore the charming town of Cripple Creek, known for its Victorian architecture and casinos. The nearby heritage center, with its scale model of the mine, offers an excellent perspective on the tour you just experienced.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour Experience
Once underground, you'll be guided through the mine's labyrinthine tunnels by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories and historical facts. These guides often inject humor into their presentations, making the educational experience engaging and enjoyable for all ages. You'll witness demonstrations of vintage mining equipment and learn about the evolution of mining techniques from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s.
The mine's consistent temperature of 50°F (10°C) means a jacket is essential year-round. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are also a must for navigating the uneven terrain. While the tight quarters of the elevator and tunnels can be a concern for those with claustrophobia, the guides are attentive, and the experience is generally well-managed.
History and Geology of the Mine
Geologically, the Cripple Creek district is known for its tellurium-bearing gold ores, which are found within a large volcanic caldera. The veins within the mine showcase the complex geological processes that formed these rich mineral deposits. Visitors can observe various mineral formations and gain an appreciation for the natural resources that fueled the region's growth.
While the Mollie Kathleen mine is no longer an active commercial operation, it sits adjacent to the Newmont Cripple Creek & Victor Mine, one of the largest gold mines in North America. This proximity allows visitors to see both historical mining practices and the scale of modern gold extraction.
Exploring the Mollie Kathleen offers a tangible link to the gold rush era and the geological wonders that lie beneath the surface.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit