The Crystal Gold Mine, near Kellogg, Idaho was the first hardrock mine in the Silver Valley. Worked from 1879 - 1881; closed by hiding the mine, it was rediscovered in 1991, reclaimed in 1996, and opened as a tourist historical attraction.
The work was all done by hand, with no equipment used. The guided underground tour explains how they drilled by hammer and steel, how they traced the quartz vein using 1880 methods, how they tested the vein for gold.
Beautiful stalactite crystals of smithsonite coat the walls. Gold and wire silver can still be seen in the quartz vein.
No appointment necessary. Underground gift shop. Tour groups welcome.
