Unearth the Wonders of Big Thunder Gold Mine
Discover the historic Big Thunder Gold Mine in Keystone, SD – an immersive journey into the gold rush era with tours, coffee, and unique gifts.
Step into the rich history of the American West at Big Thunder Gold Mine, an iconic tourist attraction in Keystone, South Dakota. Experience the thrill of gold mining, explore the fascinating underground tunnels, and enjoy delicious refreshments at the onsite coffee shop and restaurant. A perfect blend of adventure and leisure awaits you!
A brief summary to Big Thunder Gold Mine
- 604 Blair St, Keystone, South Dakota, 57751, US
- +1605-666-4847
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure your spot.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the mine tour involves walking through uneven terrain.
- Don't forget to check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs related to the gold mining history.
- Plan to spend a few hours here; there's plenty to see and do beyond the mine tour.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the center of Custer, near the Custer County Courthouse. Head north on 5th St towards Mount Rushmore Rd. Continue walking straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Highway 16. At the intersection, turn left onto Highway 16 and continue walking for approximately 1.5 miles. You will notice signs for Keystone and Mount Rushmore. As you approach Keystone, you will see the turnoff for Blair St. Turn right onto Blair St. Big Thunder Gold Mine will be on your left at 604 Blair St, Keystone, SD 57751.
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Bicycling
Begin your journey at the Custer County Courthouse in the center of Custer. Start cycling north on 5th St towards Mount Rushmore Rd. Continue on 5th St for about 0.5 miles, then make a left turn onto Highway 16. Follow Highway 16 for approximately 1.5 miles, passing by scenic views. Look for the exit towards Keystone and Blair St. Turn right on Blair St, and you will find Big Thunder Gold Mine on your left at 604 Blair St, Keystone, SD 57751.
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Public Transportation
From Custer, locate the nearest bus stop that services Keystone. Board the bus heading towards Keystone. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Keystone, disembark at the Keystone stop nearest to Blair St. From there, walk east on Blair St for about 0.2 miles, and you will find Big Thunder Gold Mine at 604 Blair St, Keystone, SD 57751.
Discover more about Big Thunder Gold Mine
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rushmore Helicopters Inc
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Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines
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Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
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The Pig Tails
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Mt Rushmore Information
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Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
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Mt Rushmore
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Hippie Hole
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Scovel Johnson Tunnel
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Mount Rushmore Profile View
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Turtle Rock
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Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
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Norbeck Overlook
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Breezy Point Picnic Area
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Iron Mountain Picnic Area
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Unmissable attractions to see
Keystone
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Keystone Museum
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1880 Train - Keystone Depot
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Black Hills Carved Signs
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Maverick Trading Post
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Borglum Story
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The National Presidential Wax Museum
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Holy Terror Mini Golf
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Rushmore Tramway Adventures
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aerial adventure park
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Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
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Cosmos Mystery Area
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Mount Rushmore National Memorial
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Sculptor's Studio
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Presidential Trail
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Essential places to dine
Big Thunder Family Bar & Grill
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone, an IHG Hotel
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Keystone Pub Grub
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Baymont by Wyndham Keystone Near Mt. Rushmore
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Ramada by Wyndham Keystone Near Mt Rushmore
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The Front Porch Restaurant and Bar
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Cruizzers
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Red Garter Saloon
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Ruby House Restaurant
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Jane's Boardwalk Pizza
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Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
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Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
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Sirloin Steak Tips
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Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
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Peggy's Place
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Keystone Country Store
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Earth Treasures
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Vintage Exchange
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Deb’s Rugs
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Halleys Store
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Rock Shed
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Iron Creek Leather & Gifts
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Emporium
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Gold Diggers - Black Hills Gold Retail Outlet
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The Daisy Chain
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The Indians
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Mountain Eagle Outpost
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Dakota Leather Outlet
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Needles
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Needles Highway
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79 Lounge & Casino
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BIN 605 Wine Beer & Tapas Bar
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Old Pine Social
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