Maine is a national treasure. Some might even call it a gem of a state. Spend just a few hours surrounded by nature here and you'll see why. Tourmaline was discovered in the mountains of western Maine in 1820 and it's been a gem synonymous with the state ever since. To learn more, we invite you to check out this fun park where you can dig for gems and treasures of all kinds. This is great for folks who love interactive activities, including inquisitive kids (and adults) of all ages. It also offers some of the best public gem mining in Maine.
Dig Maine Gems, a brand of Maine Mineral Adventures, is located in West Paris, Maine, and is so much more than just a park.
This is the kind of place that can take a humdrum day and turn it into something truly special. Who is up for a little Maine gem mining?
It offers the ability to spend some time outdoors, while also using your hands to explore the richness of Maine’s nature.
If you love learning about the state’s native minerals and gems, this might just be heaven.
There are two ways to enjoy Dig Maine Gems, either through field trips or through a "mine run bucket."
Mine run buckets allow visitors to search for and find gems right here at the Dig Maine Gems site.
The dirt has been brought in from local mines for a more family-friendly experience.
After learning the proper techniques and tools, visitors can sift through these buckets to find their own gems and minerals native to the area.
While we love this experience, the field trips allow folks to get up close and personal with the process.
Mt. Mica, Ryerson Hill Mines, The Orchard Quarry, The Bennett Quarry, Intergalactic Quarry, and Albany Rose are all sites used for field trips and they’re packed with fun finds.
Visiting these actual mines allows for a true-to-life experience for those curious about the work geologists do.
There are plenty of opportunities to learn about Maine geology here, but our favorite part might be actually finding things like tourmaline and rose quartz.
Have you ever been public gem mining in Maine? If so, did you like it? Please share your experience with us in the comments below.
If you have been looking for mines in Maine open to the public then look no further than this one. For more information, please visit the Dig Maine Gems website and make sure to follow the Dig Maine Gems Facebook page too. Still interested in the work of geologists? Take a trip to the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum.
Did you happen to see our article about this hippie-themed restaurant in Maine? It might not be an actual gem you can put in your pocket, but it's a gem when it comes to food options here in Maine.
Proud to be a Mainer? Wear your state pride literally on your sleeves with Wear Your Roots.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!