Keystone
Discover Keystone: Gateway to the Majestic Mt. Rushmore
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!
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Big Thunder Gold Mine
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
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.
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.
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.
Local tips
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Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure your spot.
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the mine tour involves walking through uneven terrain.
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Don't forget to check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs related to the gold mining history.
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Plan to spend a few hours here; there's plenty to see and do beyond the mine tour.
Discover more about Big Thunder Gold Mine
Big Thunder Gold Mine offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the gold mining era of the 19th century, set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills in South Dakota. As a premier tourist attraction, it invites adventurers and history buffs alike to explore its underground tunnels and learn about the gold rush that shaped the region. Guided tours take you deep into the mine, where you'll hear captivating stories of miners who once toiled in search of gold, as well as the tools and techniques they used during their quests. The tour is not just educational; it's an immersive experience that brings the past to life.
After your exploration, take a break and unwind at the onsite coffee shop and restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of refreshments and meals amidst a cozy atmosphere. The gift shop also offers unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the gold rush, making it easy to take a piece of history home with you. The entire experience at Big Thunder Gold Mine is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that visitors of all ages can join in the fun and excitement. With its rich history, engaging tours, and delightful amenities, Big Thunder Gold Mine is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Keystone, South Dakota.
A brief summary to Big Thunder Gold Mine
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