Excursion Juneau gold – underground mining heritage tour at Juneau

Discover valuable treasures buried beneath Alaska’s breath-taking panorama during this fun-filled gold mining and panning excursion.

Juneau, Gastineau Channel, AJ Mine/Gastineau Mill

Depart the pier for the short, but scenic drive along the beautiful Gastineau Channel en route to the AJ Mine/Gastineau Mill, once the world’s largest gold-producing mill. Upon arrival, receive your safety and tour instructions. Afterward, don your hard hat and relive Juneau's mining heritage during this uniquely captivating underground adventure.

Guided Walking Tour, Tunnel, Hard Rock-Mining Techniques, Mill, Displays, Steam Engine

Led by your experienced mining guide, walk along a boardwalk into an approximately 360-foot-long (about 109-metre-long) tunnel with ceilings approximately 18 feet-20 feet (about 5.4-metres-six metres) in height. Along the way, learn about the history of this famous mine, which was formerly the heartbeat of Juneau. Upon arrival, your guide demonstrates hard rock-mining techniques and acquaints you with the mining lifestyle. Later, learn why this mill was unique compared to others in the area, view displays, and see the very first steam engine brought to Alaska.

Stamp Mill Demonstration, Gold- & Garnet-Panning, Complimentary Hot Beverage, Shopping

Next, observe a demonstration of the John Peterson 3 Stamp Mill in operation. Afterward, proceed for the highlight of your visit, an opportunity to try your hand at panning for gold and garnets. Results are guaranteed, and you are welcome to keep whatever you find. Following your tour, enjoy a complimentary hot beverage and browse the onsite General Store for souvenirs of your visit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Juneau, Gastineau Channel, AJ Mine/Gastineau Mill, Tunnel, Hard Rock-Mining Techniques, Displays, Steam Engine, Stamp Mill Demonstration, Gold- & Garnet-Panning.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 133 yards (about 121 metres), at times over uneven, gravel and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with claustrophobia.  This tour is ADA accessible with a 5% incline on the boardwalk in the tunnel. Wheel chairs and electric scooters are welcome. Guests that require a lift vehicle must notify the Shore Concierge Desk upon embarking the vessel. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing with flat, sturdy, and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, bottled water, and US Dollars or credit cards for purchases. Guests must be at least three years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Hard hats are provided and must be worn only in the tunnel. Earplugs are provided for parts of the tunnel due to the operation of loud equipment; parents should consider the loud noise for young children. The tunnel-walk takes place on a wooden boardwalk with a 5% incline in the initial area. The tour sequence may vary.