Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Cripple Creek Colorado
Descend 1,000 feet into Colorado's gold rush history at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine. Experience a real mine tour with former miners.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Cripple Creek Colorado
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend 1,000 feet into Colorado's gold rush history at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine. Experience a real mine tour with former miners.
"A fantastic and educational experience, a level way above most tours!"
👂 Bring Ear Protection
Equipment can be very loud underground. Essential for young children sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mines maintain a cool, constant temperature year-round. Layers are key for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Underground Mine Tour
1,000 feet below ground
Descend into a real gold mine for an immersive historical and educational experience. See mining equipment and learn about techniques.
Historic Mining Equipment
Mine tunnels
Witness a variety of mining machinery and tools, some still operational, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Miner-Led Narration
Throughout the tour
Gain insights from knowledgeable guides, often former miners, sharing stories and details about the gold rush era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Safety First: Understand Mine Tour Risks
Book Ahead for Gold Rush History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👂 Bring Ear Protection
Equipment can be very loud underground. Essential for young children sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mines maintain a cool, constant temperature year-round. Layers are key for comfort.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Tours can last about an hour, plus time for ticketing and any demonstrations.
Tips
from all over the internet
👂 Bring Ear Protection
Equipment can be very loud underground. Essential for young children sensitive to noise.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mines maintain a cool, constant temperature year-round. Layers are key for comfort.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Tours can last about an hour, plus time for ticketing and any demonstrations.
⚠️ Check Operational Status
Due to past incidents, verify the mine is open and tours are running before your visit. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine for its educational and immersive tours, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the unique experience of descending into a historic gold mine. Some reviewers note the potential for loud equipment, which may be a concern for families with young children, and advise checking operational status due to past incidents.
"As part of a cross country road trip in September 2024 we stopped at this mine as I have been curious about gold mining. The tour I was on had about a dozen people in it. The guide was a former miner who passed along a wealth of information about mining. The tour lasted about an hour and showed many of the different aspects of mining.
We were at this mine a little over a week before the accident. Hopefully the mine tour resumes at some point as it was very educational. If it does reopen, I would highly recommend taking the tour."
rich troutman
"Our Tour guide was great and it was facilitating to learn about! My one issue was when we called to ask about it we were told it was child friendly. But it would have been nice to know they would run actual equipment while we were down there. We had two small children and the equipment is extremely loud and there was no real way to get away from it because once you’re down in the mine you can’t really get out till the tour is done. I still can’t run even a hand drill without my kid crying. (Previously not an issue). Anyways this isn’t a complaint but rather just information to other families the tour is very loud at times and ear protection is not provided."
Christy Goodwin
"Michael was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable and knew so much. The elevator you ride to the top was so cool it made you feel like you were back in time. You get to ride on a cart through the tunnels. This is definitely worth going to. The young girl at the counter was so nice to answer all of our questions about the area."
Kimberly Picking
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, typically a scenic drive from Colorado Springs. GPS navigation is recommended. Parking is usually available on-site.
Public transportation options directly to the mine are limited. Most visitors drive. Consider ride-sharing services or checking local shuttle options if you are not driving.
The drive to Cripple Creek is often described as scenic, winding through the mountains. Be prepared for mountain roads, especially in winter.
Cripple Creek is known for its historic mining town atmosphere, casinos, and nearby attractions like the Ice Castles during winter. +2
Yes, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is a feasible day trip or stopover from Denver, though it's a drive of several hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect them to be in the range of $20-$30 per adult. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to ensure availability.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the mine's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date hours of operation before planning your visit.
While educational, the mine tour can be very loud due to operational equipment, which may distress small children. Ear protection is not provided, so consider bringing your own.
Policies can differ. It's advisable to review the mine's terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact them directly for information on refunds or rescheduling.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour takes you 1,000 feet underground via a trolley, showcasing mining history, equipment, and techniques. Guides are often former miners. 
The tour typically lasts about an hour, providing a comprehensive look at the mine's operations and history.
If you are claustrophobic, this tour might not be suitable as you will be in enclosed spaces underground.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and dress in layers, as the mine maintains a cool, consistent temperature year-round.
Yes, tours often include demonstrations of mining equipment and techniques, offering a hands-on understanding of the process.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the mine, but always check with your guide for any specific restrictions.
The underground tunnels, historic equipment, and the trolley ride itself offer unique photographic moments.
It can be quite dark, so a camera with good low-light capabilities or a flash might be helpful, though be mindful of your guide's instructions.
Your guide will likely point out interesting features and historical points that make for great photos.
Tripod usage might be restricted due to space and safety concerns. It's best to inquire with the mine staff upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Despite the noise, the historical context and the chance to see real mining equipment can be fascinating for older children interested in history and how things work. The guides are often engaging and can make the learning experience fun. It's a unique way to teach kids about Colorado's gold rush heritage, but be prepared for the sensory aspects and ensure your child is comfortable in enclosed spaces.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when crowds might be smaller, potentially leading to a more intimate experience. Pack your own snacks and water, as on-site purchases can add up. Combine your visit with other free or low-cost attractions in the Cripple Creek area, such as exploring the historic downtown or enjoying scenic drives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colorado's Gold Rush
During the tour, you'll descend approximately 1,000 feet underground via a trolley, a method that was crucial for transporting ore and miners. The experience is designed to be educational, with guides often being former miners themselves. They share firsthand knowledge about the dangers, challenges, tools, and techniques associated with gold mining operations, from the late 1800s to more modern methods. This immersive approach makes the history come alive, offering a deeper appreciation for the hard work and risks involved.
The tour isn't just about history; it also showcases the evolution of mining technology. You'll see a variety of mining machinery and tools, some of which may still be demonstrated. This provides a fascinating contrast between historical manual labor and the more mechanized processes that followed. For those interested in geology and the extraction of precious metals, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the 'gold rush' that defined much of Colorado's early economy and settlement.
Safety and Operational Considerations
+6These events highlight the inherent risks associated with underground mining operations, even in a tourist context. While rescue efforts have been successful in past incidents, it underscores the need for visitors to be informed and cautious. The mine's operational status can be affected by safety reviews and investigations following such events. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the mine's current operating status and safety protocols before planning a visit. Checking official websites or contacting the mine directly is the best way to ensure it is open and safe for tours.
Furthermore, visitors should be prepared for the sensory experience within the mine. The operation of mining equipment can be extremely loud, which may be startling or uncomfortable for young children or individuals sensitive to noise. While ear protection is not provided, bringing your own is a practical recommendation for a more comfortable experience.
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