Last Chance Mine
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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

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 293 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

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.

Hey I will be visiting Colorado for two weeks starting on the 7th of may. I was wondering if anyone could take me out hounding anywhere? I am a board member of my local Gem and Mineral Society and am definitely willing to bring rocks as payment/exchange for some Colorado rocks.…

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

Found this 68# amethyst vein boulder in the tailings pile at Last Chance Mine in Creede, CO last weekend. We are new to rockhounding and I have worked with iron out and muriatic acid before but definitely not on this scale. How should I approach the rock cleaning so that we can…

reddit.com

Rock Hounding Areas

Last chance mine in Creede is your best bet - it is pay to dig but youll find good stuff. Otherwise join a mineral club. It is highly unlikely anyone will give up their secret collecting spot on the internet.

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

So planning a summer trip to Yellowstone and will be traveling through Colorado. Last summer went to a quartz mine in Arkansas where we could dig through tailings. Being that I am disabled it was great for me. Was wondering if anyone knew of any places like that in Colorado. Not…

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

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