Jackson Hole Gem Mine
A family-owned roadside gem mine offering fun digging experiences, adorable animals, and a shop with local goods.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Jackson Hole Gem Mine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A family-owned roadside gem mine offering fun digging experiences, adorable animals, and a shop with local goods.
"Absolutely awesome adventure! Kids and parents alike had a blast mining for gems."
🎯 Check Hours Before Visiting
Always confirm operating hours before heading out, as they can change.
💰 Understand Gem Cutting Costs
Clarify pricing for custom gemstone cuts upfront to avoid surprises.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gem Mining Adventure
Outdoor mining area
Unearth a variety of beautiful stones and crystals from your very own bucket. A hands-on experience for all ages!
Gemstone Identification
Inside the shop
Learn about the treasures you've found! Knowledgeable staff will help identify your gems and crystals.
Adorable Animal Encounters
Onsite
Meet the friendly goats, bunnies, and other animals that call the gem mine home. Some bunnies are even available for adoption!
Local Goods & Souvenirs
Gift shop
Browse a charming selection of locally made goods and unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Bucket Selection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Before Visiting
Always confirm operating hours before heading out, as they can change.
💰 Understand Gem Cutting Costs
Clarify pricing for custom gemstone cuts upfront to avoid surprises.
Looking for recommendations of things to do at or near Franklin
🐶 Pet Friendly Fun
Enjoy the company of the resident dogs and other animals on site.
💎 Bucket Size Matters
Choose a bucket size that suits your group and budget for the best gem mining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Before Visiting
Always confirm operating hours before heading out, as they can change.
💰 Understand Gem Cutting Costs
Clarify pricing for custom gemstone cuts upfront to avoid surprises.
🐶 Pet Friendly Fun
Enjoy the company of the resident dogs and other animals on site.
💎 Bucket Size Matters
Choose a bucket size that suits your group and budget for the best gem mining experience.
☕ Grab a Treat
Enjoy hot cocoa and boiled peanuts available in the shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Jackson Hole Gem Mine for its friendly staff, engaging gem mining activity, and the delightful presence of animals. It's a highly recommended spot for families seeking a fun and interactive roadside attraction. Some guests noted a lack of transparency regarding additional costs for gemstone cutting, which could be improved.
"Such a cute place to gem mine. We visited today and it was empty as it was late in the day. We bought the $30 bucket for my hubby and myself. We used to do this activity when the kids were little, so we thought it would be fun to do it again for memories. Jackson was the worker who helped us and he was really sweet. We talked with him as we were doing the gem mining. It’s always nice to meet people from all over so that was nice.
The place has a cute store and they helped us understand what gems we had gotten in our mining. They have a bunch of adorable dogs that they bring to work with them so that was a treat.
I definately recommend this place for some fun."
Robin F
"Our third attempt to visit this local Gem Mine, and its all worth it for us. Our kiddos enjoyed their gem mine. Location is near the road, plenty of spot and spaces. Inside the store is cute and tons of selection to shop for souvenirs. Hot cocoa and boiled peanuts are good as well. It is a family owned store and they are very lovely and friendly. We had a great visit & experience. Please do check their hours of operation before visiting the shop."
GrimzFamilyTravel
"Such a fun place to take kids and even do as adults! I used to love going as a kid and always had a blast seeing what gems were in my bucket. My brothers and I would always compete to see who got the "cooler" gems. Created great memories for us that we still talk about to this day. Every time we pass it on the way up, it creates much nostalgia for us. Definitely a place you should check out and try on your next visit to Highlands!"
Jessica Carter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jackson Hole Gem Mine is a roadside destination, making it easily accessible by car. It's located in the Dillard area, which is noted as a nice place to visit. Parking is generally plentiful.
Yes, reviews mention plenty of spots and spaces for parking, so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place for your vehicle.
The location is described as being near the road, which suggests it's quite visible and easy to spot as you drive by.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gem mining buckets are available at various price points, including $30, $50, and $100 options. Be sure to clarify any additional costs for custom gemstone cutting. +1
Advance booking is generally not required for the gem mining activity. You can typically purchase your bucket upon arrival.
It's crucial to check their hours of operation before visiting, as they can vary. Visiting late in the day can mean fewer crowds.
Yes, the gem mine offers different bucket sizes, with options like $30, $50, and $100 buckets, allowing you to choose based on your group size and budget. +1
Each bucket contains a mix of stones and crystals to sift through. Larger buckets may come with advertised benefits like a 'free' gemstone pendant or earrings, but clarify cutting costs.
🎫 💎 Onsite Experience
You can find a variety of stones and crystals, including rubies, rose quartz, and other interesting rocks. The staff are knowledgeable and can help identify your finds. +1
Absolutely! Children of all ages, from 5-year-olds to older kids, have a blast mining for gems. It's a fun, hands-on activity for the whole family.
Yes, the gem mine is home to several adorable animals, including goats (some are fainting goats!) and bunnies. Some bunnies may even be available for adoption.
Yes, you can have your findings cut into pendants or earrings. However, be aware that there are additional costs associated with this service, which can vary by gemstone.
The gem mine also features a cute shop with locally made goods and souvenirs. You can also enjoy hot cocoa and boiled peanuts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While not a full restaurant, the shop offers treats like hot cocoa and boiled peanuts, perfect for a snack during your visit.
Information on bringing outside food isn't explicitly mentioned, but given the snack offerings, it's likely a place for light refreshments rather than full meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos of their gem finds, the animals, and the charming shop. It's a great spot for memorable snapshots.
Capture the excitement of sifting through your gem bucket, the adorable baby goats and bunnies, and the unique items in the gift shop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the opportunity to bond with their children during the mining process and the educational aspect of identifying the found gems. The shop also offers a chance to pick up fun souvenirs. Consider purchasing a mid-sized bucket like the $30 or $50 option for a good balance of finds and value for younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are options for larger buckets and gemstone cutting, these come with additional costs. Stick to the basic gem mining buckets to keep expenses low. The opportunity to see and interact with the animals is free, adding value to the visit.
couples
Consider purchasing a larger bucket to share, or even individual buckets for a friendly competition. The charming shop also offers a chance to find a special souvenir together. It's a relaxed, enjoyable experience that offers a break from typical tourist attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gem Mining Experience
Reviews consistently highlight the fun children have with this activity, with parents enjoying watching and helping. The $30 bucket is often mentioned as a good starting point, providing a decent haul. However, for those interested in custom gemstone cutting, it's important to have a clear understanding of the associated costs, as these can add up and may not be immediately apparent.
Beyond the mining itself, the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to interact with knowledgeable staff create a memorable visit. It’s a classic roadside attraction that offers a tangible reward for your efforts, making it a popular stop for families and those seeking a unique activity.
Meet the Animal Friends
For those with a soft spot for furry friends, the opportunity to interact with these animals is a significant draw. Some of the bunnies on the property are even available for adoption, offering a chance to give a loving home to a tame and friendly pet. This unique aspect sets the gem mine apart, blending the thrill of gem discovery with the joy of animal encounters.
The presence of these animals contributes to the overall welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere of the gem mine. It’s a place where you can enjoy gem hunting and also create heartwarming memories with the resident creatures.
Shopping and Local Finds
From unique crafts to mementos of your gem-finding adventure, the shop offers a variety of items. Visitors have also noted the availability of snacks like hot cocoa and boiled peanuts, making it a convenient stop for a quick treat.
This blend of activity and retail makes the gem mine a well-rounded destination. Whether you're looking for a special gift or a personal keepsake, the shop offers a pleasant browsing experience after your gem mining fun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit