There are a lot of ways to explore California’s incredible Gold Country, but no visit to this historically-rich area would be complete without trying to find some gold for yourself! You can do just that when you visit this awesomely authentic gold mind in Columbia. Try your hand at gold panning and you may just go home with some treasure in your pocket. Every member of the family can appreciate a visit to this historic attraction so go ahead and check it out soon!
Hidden treasure is waiting for you at this real working mine in Columbia. Matelot Gulch Mining Company is a wonderful place to take the family for the day when you find yourself in Gold Country, and you may even leave with something extra in your pockets.
Matelot Gulch Mining Co. and Hidden Treasure Gold Mine have been family owned and operated since 1964. Originally built in the 1800s, the gold mine was famously known for their underground mine tours. Although currently closed to the public, you can still have plenty of mining related fun at this historic site.
Gold panning is the heart and soul of the park. Here you can search for gold like a real '49er! Using a system of ditches and flumes (just like the old days), water is transported to troughs where visitors can pan for gold.
Dressed in period clothing, the docents are there to make sure you have the best experience possible. You're bound to be an expert gold panner by the end of your visit! Additionally, you'll learn all about the miners who came to Columbia back in the Gold Rush days and what their impact was on the region to this very day.
The price of admission gives you access to the site for the entire day. There is no time restriction on gold panning so you can truly pan for hours on end if you wish. And yes, you'll be panning for real gold, among other gemstones.
Prices vary depending on what type of panning you choose. The "Adventure Pan" is $5.50 and includes a rental pan and bottle but no lesson. The "Eureka Pan" includes a lesson and guaranteed gold for $12 and the "Gold And Deluxe Pan" includes a private lesson and gold and miner's ruby in the first pan for $15.
Afterward, you can wander around Columbia State Historic Park and take in the stunning scenery and natural beauty. A visit to Matelot Gulch Mining Co. is bound to become a "treasured" way to spend the day in Gold Country, so plan a little field trip to this historic site soon.
What do you think? Will you be checking out the gold panning at this awesome gold mine? Regardless of how much you find, this is an awesome attraction for the entire family. For another look back at California’s history, check out This Ride Through An Old Coal Mine In Northern California.
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