Last Chance Mine
1 / 10

Last Chance Mine

4.9
·293 reviews·Creede, United States

Explore a historic Colorado mine, hunt for gemstones, and learn about mining history with engaging guides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tours

CrowdLow
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Last Chance Mine

Last Chance Mine

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a historic Colorado mine, hunt for gemstones, and learn about mining history with engaging guides.

4.9
(293 reviews)

"Our tour guide, River, had so much knowledge all across the board in mineralogy and was generally a fresh air!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Ask for River! 🌟

Many visitors rave about guide River's knowledge and engaging storytelling. Highly recommended!

Steep Stairs Alert! ⚠️

Be mindful of steep stairs inside the mine. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mine Tour Experience

Mine Tour Experience

Inside the Last Chance Mine

Explore the historic mine with knowledgeable guides like River, who bring its history to life with engaging stories.

Gemstone Tailings Pile

Gemstone Tailings Pile

Adjacent to the mine

Hunt for your own treasures, including amethyst, in the old mine tailings pile. A hands-on experience for all ages.

On-site Museum & Gift Shop

On-site Museum & Gift Shop

Side of the mountain

Discover fascinating minerals and purchase unique gemstone jewelry crafted from local finds.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Tours are popular, so booking in advance is wise, especially if you have a specific guide like River in mind. The drive up offers stunning views, so allow ample time.

Navigating the Mine

Be prepared for steep stairs inside the mine. Parking can be limited and isn't always clearly marked. The tailings pile is a fun spot for rock collectors, but wear appropriate footwear.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tours
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Colorado. Hoping someone could take me rockhounding.

Ask for River! 🌟

Many visitors rave about guide River's knowledge and engaging storytelling. Highly recommended! Reddit

Steep Stairs Alert! ⚠️

Be mindful of steep stairs inside the mine. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Reddit

reddit.com

Advice for cleaning

reddit.com

Rock Hounding Areas

Rockhound's Paradise 💎

Explore the tailings pile for your own gemstones. Great for kids and adults alike! Reddit

Parking Pointers 🚗

Parking can be limited and signage isn't always clear. Arrive early if possible. Reddit

reddit.com

Places to go in Colorado

Tips

from all over the internet

Ask for River! 🌟

Many visitors rave about guide River's knowledge and engaging storytelling. Highly recommended! Reddit

Steep Stairs Alert! ⚠️

Be mindful of steep stairs inside the mine. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Reddit

Rockhound's Paradise 💎

Explore the tailings pile for your own gemstones. Great for kids and adults alike! Reddit

Parking Pointers 🚗

Parking can be limited and signage isn't always clear. Arrive early if possible. Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures 💍

Find beautiful jewelry made with gemstones directly from the mine. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(293 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Last Chance Mine for its engaging tours, knowledgeable guides like River, and the fun gemstone hunting opportunities in the tailings pile. The scenic drive and on-site museum are also highlights. Some minor drawbacks include potentially limited parking and steep stairs within the mine.

"I’ve been traveling to Creede for 20+ years and this is one of my favorite spots each year! The drive up is so beautiful and you pass several old mines. The gift shop and museum are on the side of the mountain which is cool. I will be back for a tour next year!"

Brooke Spencer

"We found this place out by chance and it turned out to be our most cherished experience here in Colorado. Our tour guide, River, had so much knowledge all across the board in mineralogy and was generally a fresh air to all this! I'm always super happy seeing young people involved in exciting fields like mining. Thanks a ton!"

Αρι

"Really neat place. No wait for the tours. Watch out for the steep stairs. Be patient with the grumpy people (probably just had a bad day) and you will enjoy this place. Lots of rocks to check out and for purchase as well as a tailings pile you can collect your own from. Worth a stop if you have the time. Parking is limited and not marked out or signed very well. Lots to see and learn about though."

James Clarke

What People Like

Engaging mine tours
Knowledgeable guides (River)
Gemstone tailings pile

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Steep stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Last Chance Mine is located near Creede, Colorado. The drive up is scenic, passing by old mines. Parking is available on-site but can be limited and not always clearly marked. Reddit

The drive is beautiful and offers great views. While generally accessible, be prepared for mountain roads. Reddit

The most common route is via CO-149 towards Creede. Follow local signage for the mine. Reddit

It's challenging to reach Last Chance Mine without a personal vehicle due to its remote location. Public transport options are limited in the Creede area. Reddit

Yes, the drive itself passes several old mines, and the town of Creede offers historical sites and beautiful scenery. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary for tours. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing. Reddit

While there's often no wait for tours, booking in advance is recommended, especially if you want to ensure a spot or have a specific guide like River. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for current hours of operation. Reddit

Yes, they offer various tours that explore different aspects of the mine and its history. Inquire about available options when booking. Reddit

Access to the museum and gift shop is generally included with tour bookings or may have a separate small fee. Confirm upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as there are steep stairs inside the mine. Layers are also recommended as mine temperatures can be cooler. Reddit

Yes, children often enjoy the mine tours and the tailings pile. Guides are usually great at engaging younger visitors. Reddit

You can collect your own gemstones from the designated tailings pile. This is a popular activity for visitors. Reddit

Visitors often find amethyst and other beautiful gemstones in the tailings pile. The museum showcases a variety of minerals. Reddit

The mine involves steep stairs, which may pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility accommodations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Last Chance Mine has a gift shop that may offer some snacks or drinks. For full meals, plan to dine in the nearby town of Creede. Reddit

The town of Creede offers several dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Research local recommendations for the best experience. Reddit

Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable, especially for longer visits or if you have specific dietary needs. Reddit

While not explicitly advertised, the scenic surroundings might offer spots for a picnic. Check with staff upon arrival. Reddit

Expect classic American fare, with some establishments offering local Colorado specialties. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask your tour guide before taking pictures inside the mine to ensure compliance. Reddit

The scenic drive up, the mine entrance, the museum displays, and the tailings pile offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and mines. Check with management for any specific regulations. Reddit

A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful for inside the mine. For the tailings pile, a macro lens can be fun for close-ups of gemstones. Reddit

Commercial photography usually requires special permits. For personal use, standard photography is generally permitted, but always confirm. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Last Chance Mine is a fantastic destination for families. The mine tours are engaging, and guides like River are excellent at keeping children entertained and answering their questions. The tailings pile is a huge hit with kids, offering a chance to hunt for their own gemstones. It's a hands-on learning experience that combines fun with education about geology and mining history. Reddit

Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep stairs inside the mine. Bring snacks and drinks, as food options are limited on-site. Consider booking tours in advance to secure your preferred time slot. The museum also provides interesting displays that can capture children's attention.

💎 Rockhounding Enthusiasts

For those passionate about rocks and minerals, Last Chance Mine is a must-visit. The tailings pile offers a prime opportunity for amateur rockhounding, with the chance to find amethyst and other semi-precious stones. The on-site museum showcases a variety of minerals, providing insights into the geological makeup of the region. Reddit

Tips for rockhounds: Bring tools for sifting and collecting if you plan to spend significant time at the tailings pile. Familiarize yourself with common gemstones found in the area to maximize your finds. The gift shop also offers unique jewelry made from local gemstones.

🚗 Day-Trippers from Nearby Areas

If you're exploring the Creede area, Last Chance Mine makes for an excellent and worthwhile day trip. The scenic drive up to the mine is part of the experience, offering beautiful Colorado vistas. The mine tour, museum, and gemstone hunting provide a few hours of engaging activity. Reddit

Tips for day-trippers: Combine your visit with exploring the charming town of Creede. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenic surroundings, as dining options directly at the mine are limited. Ensure you check operating hours before you go, especially if visiting during the shoulder seasons.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mining History of Last Chance Mine

The Last Chance Mine is a testament to the rich mining heritage of the Creede area. Historically, this region was a hub for silver and lead production, with numerous mines dotting the landscape. The Last Chance Mine itself likely played a role in extracting valuable ores, contributing to the local economy and the westward expansion of mining operations. Understanding this history adds a deeper appreciation to the tours offered today.

Exploring the mine offers a glimpse into the challenging conditions faced by miners. The tunnels, the tools, and the stories shared by guides like River paint a vivid picture of life underground. The museum further elaborates on the geological formations and the types of minerals that were sought after, providing context for the mine's significance. It’s a journey back in time, connecting visitors to the adventurous spirit of the mining era. Reddit

Gemstone Hunting at the Tailings Pile

One of the most engaging activities at Last Chance Mine is sifting through the tailings pile. This area consists of the leftover rock and debris from the mining process, which often contains valuable gemstones that were not extracted. Visitors are encouraged to search for their own treasures, making it a hands-on and exciting experience for all ages. It's a fantastic opportunity to find unique souvenirs and learn about mineral identification in a fun, informal setting. Reddit

Many visitors, including families with children, find immense joy in this activity. The thrill of discovery, the possibility of unearthing a beautiful amethyst or other semi-precious stones, makes it a highlight of the visit. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some digging. The gift shop also features beautiful jewelry made from gemstones found in the mine, showcasing the potential of these finds. Reddit

The Role of Guides like River

The experience at Last Chance Mine is significantly enhanced by its knowledgeable and passionate guides, with River frequently mentioned as a standout. These individuals are not just tour leaders; they are storytellers who breathe life into the history and geology of the mine. Their expertise in mineralogy and their engaging personalities make the tours informative and entertaining, catering to both adults and children. Reddit

Guides like River are crucial in making the complex history of mining accessible and interesting. They answer questions patiently, share anecdotes, and ensure that visitors have a safe and memorable experience. Their dedication to sharing their knowledge reflects a genuine passion for the mine and its legacy, turning a simple visit into an educational adventure. Reddit

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