If you live in North Jersey, perhaps even Central or South, you may be familiar with the name “Sterling Hill.” Sterling Hill Mining Museum is one of the most unique museums in the Garden State, offering a wide variety of activities including a tour that leads to the infamous Rainbow Tunnel in New Jersey. In addition to the museum, visitors have the opportunity to mine for gemstones, dig for fossils, observe the night sky and so much more. What you may not realize is that there is a mine tunnel in New Jersey, and it is open to the public for tours and exploration. Let’s take a look…

The Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
The Sterling Hill Mine is the fourth oldest mine in the United States and the last working underground mine in New Jersey. The main tunnel, which is open for tours regularly, is 1/4 of a mile long and wheelchair accessible. It features a lamp room, blasting demonstration, and the stunning "rainbow tunnel."
Facebook/Sterling Hill Mining Museum
The fluorescent rainbow tunnel is the only one of its kind in the entire world, and it's absolutely stunning. A unique natural formation, it is truly breathtaking. The photos don't do it justice - you have to see it for yourself.
Facebook/Sterling Hill Mining Museum
Tours of the mine last two hours, and the temperature is always a brisk 56 degrees -- so be sure to bundle up! If the incredible beauty doesn't draw you in, maybe a ghost story will pique your interest. Some say the ghost of an old miner named Pete haunts the tunnels. Legend has it that he fell down the shaft to his death and never left.
The Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
The Sterling Hill Zinc Mine closed in 1986, but the tunnel we tour today was reopened in 1990. In 2011, another tunnel was restored. The Trotter Tunnel (pictured) was once capped but several private tours led by miners have been held in the past 5 years.
The Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
Everyone goes home with a fluorescent mineral. The experience is unforgettable and the site is truly remarkable. Scientists still can't fully explain how this massive collection of mineral deposits formed. If you've overlooked this gem in the past, don't miss out any longer.

Wherever you are in New Jersey, this mine tunnel in New Jersey in Ogdensburg (Sussex County) is absolutely worth the drive. Hours and admission vary by season, and all of that information can be found on the official Sterling Hill Mining Museum website. Have you toured the mine and brought home a piece of the Rainbow Tunnel in New Jersey? What was your favorite part of your visit to Sterling Hill Mining Museum?

After you’ve explored the tunnels, check out these 10 incredible places in New Jersey that will bring out the explorer in you.

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mine tunnel in New Jersey

Sarah | November 22, 2021

Is Sterling Hill the only mine tunnel in New Jersey?

There are other underground mines in New Jersey, but Sterling Hill is the most accessible and safe for visitors to explore. The Sterling Hill Mine, now known as the Sterling Hill Mine Tour & Museum of Fluorescence, is a former iron and zinc mine in Ogdensburg, Sussex County, New Jersey, United States. It was the last working underground mine in New Jersey when it closed in 1986, and it became a museum in 1989. It's a cool place to visit, and we hope you'll check it out!

Are there any underground caves to explore in New Jersey?

Absolutely there are! There are so many amazing hiking spots in the state. One hike we love in particular has plenty of cool features (views, a lake, a rock cave), and also gets your heart pumping. Located in Butler, New Jersey, we’d recommend the Silas Condict Park White Trail if you’re looking for a fun hiking experience. Prefer an above-ground caving adventure? There's a cave-themed restaurant in New Jersey that's a fun and delicious little adventure!

What are some other hidden gems in New Jersey?

Looking for some more off-the-beaten-path adventures in the Garden State? Head to Palisades Interstate Park; you'll be blown away by the striking cliffs and scenic Hudson River views. A hike here means exploring hidden castles (the Women's Federation Monument), a historic homestead (the Kearney House), a reconstructed Revolutionary War encampment, and over 30 miles of trails. Other hidden gems well worth exploring in New Jersey include the  Paranormal Museum, Liberty Science Center, Adventure Aquarium, and the Historic Hermitage House.

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Featured Addresses
Sterling Hill Mining Museum, 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439, USA