4 Exciting Places to Go Gem Mining in Pigeon Forge
Dig up some fun during your Pigeon Forge vacation with a visit to one of the area’s gem mining attractions! This is your chance to search for gemstones just like prospectors did back in the days of the gold rush, and possibly even have your precious finds made into some unique jewelry! Get the whole gang together for this family-friendly activity that is guaranteed to be a highlight of your vacation in the Smokies! Here are 4 exciting places to go gem mining in Pigeon Forge:
1. Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
The Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is conveniently located right along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, next door to the Three Bears General Store! There are a wide variety of buckets that you can purchase, which contain everything from gemstones to fossil mix. Once you have made your selection, use the flume area to sift through the sand and discover what treasures have been left behind! If you find a gemstone that you think would make a great ring, necklace, or bracelet, you can have it custom crafted into jewelry!
2. Goats on the Roof
Goats on the Roof lives up to its name as there really are goats on the roof of this quirky gift shop! However, you’ll also find a thrilling mountain coaster and an awesome gem mining attraction! You’ll start with a bucket of gem-rich soil and then sift through it in an authentic, old-style water sluice. The moving current of water washes the soil away through your screened tray, revealing the beautiful gems! This is an open-air attraction so that you can enjoy cool breezes on warm days, but you’re protected from the elements with an overhead roof.
3. Big Rock Dude Ranch
Another one of the exciting places to go gem mining in Pigeon Forge is the Big Rock Dude Ranch, which is situated just 2.5 miles west of the Parkway along Mill Creek Road. This ranch is not only the premier horseback riding destination in the Smokies but offers a petting zoo, heritage museum, and of course – gem mining! The gems at the Big Rock Dude Ranch come from all parts of the world and each bag contains natural wonders like amethyst, quartz crystal, blue calcite, rose quartz, jade, and turquoise!
4. Lucky 7 Mine at Dollywood
The Lucky 7 Mine at Dollywood is located in the Craftsman’s Valley section of the famous theme park, offering you the chance to get lucky by finding some cool gems! You’ll be mining from a working sluice box to find some treasures to take home, and you can also browse through the shop to discover hundreds of natural rocks and minerals! Just remember that you’ll have to purchase a ticket to Dollywood to enjoy this particular gem mining attraction!
Check out all of the suites at our hotel in Pigeon Forge TN today to stay close to all of these exciting places to go gem mining in Pigeon Forge! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smokies!
