Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine

Step into a true marvel of human engineering as you enter the mine and descend 1,000 feet underground to get a close-up look at how miners once pried precious gold ore from deep beneath the Rocky Mountains.

Discovered in 1891, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine was the first claim to be struck by a woman in the Cripple Creek and Victor gold camp — a true rarity in those days. Named for its discoverer, the mine produced gold for decades, until a lack of ore processing methods in the region made mining too difficult. Today, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine operates as a tour mine, allowing visitors to learn about mining, geology and Colorado’s early gold rush days.

Your exciting tour of this authentic gold mine begins with a 100-story man-skip elevator ride deep below the surface of the earth. You’ll be provided with a hard hat to ensure maximum safety as you are led through the mine by knowledgeable tour guides who will tell you all about the history of the gold mine and the early gold rush years in Colorado.

As part of the tour you’ll get to view real gold veins in their natural state, check out a mineral display and examine mining equipment from many different eras. The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine operated for decades and adapted with the evolution of many mining processes, which means there are lots of different artifacts on display. You’ll also get to ride in an underground tram air locomotive!

Above ground, you’ll find even more historic equipment and outbuildings to explore, plus a cool gift shop with fun souvenirs and — for the rock hound in your life — a variety of minerals, jewelry, and, of course, gold!

The next time you make your way to Cripple Creek, take a (literal) deep dive into Colorado gold rush history at the unique and fascinating Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.