treasure tours of nevada

Treasure Tours of Nevada

Ihr las vegas spezialist, wenn es um deutschsprachige touren geht.

Deutschsprachige Hotline & WhatsApp Service:   +1 702-360-7978

Las vegas ausflüge & touren - grand canyon flüge - vip touren - firmenreisen - hochzeitsservice.

Las Vegas City Tour  - Hoover Dam - Area 51 -

Jungle Palace - Goldmine - Valley of Fire -

Death Valley - Shooting Range - etc...

Ganz Privat und ohne auf andere zu warten

Private Touren versprechen größere Flexibilität 

Perfekt für Paare, Familien und kleine Gruppen

EVENTREISEN

Sie planen eine Firmenreise nach Las Vegas und wollen nichts dem Zufall überlassen? Wir planen für Sie den Las Vegas Aufenthalt

RUNDFLÜGE

Helikopter Nachtflug über Las Vegas - VIP Helikopterflüge-  Helikopter Flug zum Grand Canyon - Flugzeugtour zum Grand Canyon - etc...

Deutschsprachiger  Hochzeitsservice. Angefangen bei einer klassischen Hochzeit bis hin zur Hochzeit am Grand Canyon ist in Vegas alles möglich...

Diverse tagesaktuelle Gutscheine und Aktionen aus der Reisebranche für Deinen nächsten Urlaub...

KEIN ZAHLUNGSRISIKO Wir erheben keine Anzahlung oder Vorkasse auf unsere Touren

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Treasure Tours of Nevada - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Treasure Tours of Nevada

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

7575 W Washington Ave

Ste 127-113

Las Vegas, NV 89128

You Might Also Consider

High Society Limousine

High Society Limousine is your premier Luxury Transportation service in Nevada providing reliable transportation services. We strive to make customer satisfaction our number one priority. We will ensure that you have on-time… read more

in Party Bus Rentals, Airport Shuttles, Limos

Safe journeys with RIC

5.3 miles away from Treasure Tours of Nevada

Welcome to Safe Journeys With RIC, your trusted affiliate marketerl! As a veteran-owned and led affiliate marketing company, we pride ourselves on offering safe and memorable adventures for every traveler. Our mission is simple: to… read more

in Travel Services, Marketing

Las Vegas Elite OffRoad

Tavia M. said "THE BEST experience - great price for plenty of drive time. They picked us up from the hotel on time and we stayed on schedule throughout! Just enough explanation on safety etc. I went with my husband as well as my brother and his…" read more

in Atv Rentals/tours, Tours

About the Business

Business owner information

Angelina und René M.

Ihr Las Vegas Spezialist, wenn es um deutschsprachige Touren geht. - Las Vegas Stadtrundfahrt auf deutsch - Hoover Damm Tour auf Deutsch - Red Rock Canyon Tour auf Deutsch - Las Vegas Reality Tour auf deutsch - Gold Rush Tour auf Deutsch - Las Vegas schiessen auf deutsch - Valley of Fire Tour in deutsch - Death Valley Tour auf deutsch - Area 51 Tour auf deutsch …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Treasure Tours of Nevada .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

4 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Other Tours Nearby

Adrenaline ATV Tours

6.3 miles away from Treasure Tours of Nevada

Janae D. said "I almost didn't want to publish a review because I don't want more people to find out about this gem but that's being selfish so I wanted to praise this company and everyone who works for them. I originally put a deposit down with…" read more

Laughlin Scenic Tours

Discover the hidden wonders of Northwest Arizona & Southern Nevada with Laughlin Scenic Tours! Our NEW Desert Wonder Tour Company offers extraordinary experiences to make your special getaway one you'll never forget. Half-day… read more

People Also Viewed

Trikke Las Vegas

Ethel M Chocolate Factory Tour

Crawl Vegas

Zappos Tour Experience

Las Vegas Movie Tours

Vegas Specialty Tours

Grand Canyon Tour Company

Las Vegas Showgirl Museum

Vegas Ghosts

Best of Las Vegas

Things to do in Las Vegas

Find more Tours near Treasure Tours of Nevada

Browse Nearby

Limo Service

Mines Near Me

Tours Near Me

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

Treasure Tours of Nevada

Get Tickets

Red Velvet Burlesque Show Las Vegas - Burlesque & Variety Show

Trevi Fountain at Caesars Palace Las Vegas

Adam London Laughternoon

Segway Las Vegas

The Fall of Atlantis at Caesars Palace

Don't have an account yet? Register

Already have an account? Sign In

Reset Password

Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link to create a new password via email.

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Treasure Tours of Nevada - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Treasure Tours of Nevada - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

Treasure Tours Of Nevada

1800 Monterey Cypress St, Las Vegas , Nevada 89144-5409 USA

• Independent
• More in Las Vegas

Be the first to add a review to the Treasure Tours Of Nevada.

• Mon - Fri: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

Problem with this listing? Let us know .

Has RV parking changed? Let us know .

• Unavailable Parking
• Unknown Pets Allowed
• Unknown Restrooms
• Unknown Wifi
• Unknown Wheelchair Accessible
• Unknown Credit Cards Accepted

Nearby Hotels

Click to discover a great deal!

Related Trip Guides

The top things to do on an extraterrestrial highway road trip, the top things to do on an i-80 road trip, keep exploring with the roadtrippers mobile apps..

Anything you plan or save automagically syncs with the apps, ready for you to hit the road!

Connect with us and hit up #roadtrippers

Tall tales, trip guides, & the world's weird & wonderful.

• Roadpass Digital
• Mobile Apps

Business Tools

• Partnerships

Get Inspired

• Road trip ideas by state
• National parks
• Famous routes
• Voices from the Road

Fresh Guides

• The ultimate guide to Mammoth Cave National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Badlands National Park
• Route 66 Leg 2: St. Louis to Tulsa
• Route 66 Leg 1: Chicago to St. Louis
• Route 66 Leg 3: Tulsa to Amarillo
• Top 10 things to do in Ohio
• Offbeat Road Trip Guides
• Road Trip USA
• Scenic Routes America
• National Park Road Trips
• Terms and Conditions

15 Lost Treasures of Nevada

Cory Haasnoot

Published On: January 2, 2022

There are many lost treasures of Nevada. Along with buried and hidden treasure, there are hundreds of stories of lost and abandoned gold mines that dot this state. In this article, you will learn about buried stagecoach loot, buried gold ore, and much more.

Nevada has a rich history from the gold rush days and with its history stories abound of lost treasures throughout the state. Nevada became a state on October 31, 1864, and during that time many gold mining towns sprung up and most were abandoned. Leaving ghost towns all around the state that can be explored to this day.

With all the gold floating around in Nevada many thieves took advantage of the shipments. These bandits also would bury their loot and many times were unable to come back and retrieve it. Many miners also buried their gold and died before they could retrieve it. This left the tales of lost treasure that you will find in this article.

So sit back and enjoy as I bring you the 15 lost treasures of Nevada!

Table of Contents

Buried Stagecoach Loot Near Nevada State Prison

In the 1800’s stagecoach robberies were a common occurrence throughout the southern and western United States. This story is about a Wells Fargo stagecoach that got held up and robbed.

The Wells Fargo stagecoach was headed from Virginia City to Carson City Nevada with a huge shipment of gold that was going to the Carson City Mint to get minted into gold coins. So the driver William Manners and the guard riding shotgun Mike O’Fallon were very nervous, to say the least.

After a brief stop at the town of Empire that was about a mile from Carson City, they took off again. But as soon as they got going four thieves came out of nowhere and held them up. The thieves took the valuable cargo and also held up the passengers taking their personal valuables.

Without any casualties, the stagecoach headed to Carson City where a posse was formed to go after the bandits. The posse caught up with the four of them and shot and killed three. Manuel Gonzales the only surviving bandit was caught and questioned by Well Fargo investigators. The men had already buried the gold shipment. Gonzales wouldn’t talk.

Manuel Gonzales got 20 years in the Nevada Territorial Prison where he would brag to other inmates that he could see from his prison cell the spot that they had buried the Wells Fargo gold shipment. After being locked up for eight years Gonzales was released but he died soon after. He never had a chance to dig up the buried treasure.

Is the treasure really buried near the Nevada State Prison? Many guards from the prison are said to have looked for the treasure but it has never been found.

Hidden Winnings In Johnnie Nevada

The town of Johnnie Nevada was named after an Indian named Johnnie who would welcome early mining prospectors in the area. The town is famous for the lost Breyfogle mine that is said to be near the town of Johnnie.

This story is about a man and his hidden winnings. It is said that a man won about $100,000 at the crap tables in Las Vegas. When he returned to Johnnie he hid his winnings somewhere in the town. He soon died of a heart attack and never revealed where he hid the money.

Johnnie Nevada is now a ghost town and is located near Mount Sterling about 15 miles from Pahrump, Nevada in Clark County.

Genoa Nevada Lost Gold

There’s gold in them thar hills was a famous phrase used during the Western gold rush days. In the 1860s gold fever was rampant in Nevada. As you can see today there are so many stories of lost and abandoned gold mines in the state of Nevada.

Tons of gold was shipped out from the hills of Genoa and their payrolls would be sent to them by stagecoach. Many times bandits would take advantage of these shipments.

On one such occasion, a paymaster thought he would do things a little different when sending the payroll to Genoa. He decided to ship the gold coins in a regular nail keg and would send it with the ordinary delivery so as not to arouse suspicion.

Word got out that he was doing this and the stagecoach with the keg of gold coins was held up and robbed of just the nail keg. The thieves got away and the incident was forgotten for years. Until one day a miner who was dying confessed to robbing the stagecoach years earlier and said that they buried most of the loot which totaled $20,000 in twenty-dollar gold coins near a pine tree close to the spot that they held up the stagecoach.

The miner said that they never did go back and retrieve the gold coins. As people found out about the buried loot they went out and dug up about every tree around Genoa, Nevada looking for the lost gold coins. No coins were found.

But years later a few people have found gold coins in various spots around Genoa. There was an avalanche in 1882 in the area which probably displaced the coins around the area. Although some of the coins have been found most of the stolen $20,000 in twenty-dollar gold pieces have not been recovered and are still hidden in the Genoa Hills area of Nevada!

Cache of Gold Ore Buried Near Tohakum Peak

Tohakum Peak is one of the highest peaks in Northern Nevada. It can be seen from quite a distance. Legend has it that in the 1880s a gold prospector who had struck it rich in one of his gold mines buried $250,000 worth of his gold ore near this Peak.

It is said that he left for the winter but when he came back he was unable to locate the buried gold ore. The ore is still buried somewhere near Tohakum Peak which is about 2 miles northeast of the northern tip of Pyramid Lake.

If you find it be ready to do some back-breaking work and have some sort of equipment that you can haul it down the mountain with.

Digging Deeper: 13 Lost Treasures of Nebraska

Hidden Treasure Near Pogue Station

Pogue Station was named after its owner Jim Pogue. The station was the only source of water for miles around and Jim charged dearly for the water. It was also a stage station for Pritchard’s Fast Freight Route that ran in the area.

Jim is said to have made $25,000 a year from this station which was located near Eureka, Nevada. Jim never spent much money and was said to be a miser of sorts. He distrusted banks as many did in those days. So when Jim died on May 19, 1915 people started to wonder where all his money was hidden?

Word got out that Jim had died and his wealth was probably buried somewhere on the Pogue Station grounds. People flocked from all over searching for Jim’s wealth which was estimated to be $200,000! People turned the stage station upside down looking for Jim’s hidden wealth.

Over the years treasure hunters destroyed the Pogue Station looking for the treasure and only a little over $11 has been found. The site is now in ruins and is located about 67 miles West of Ely Nevada on the west slope of the gap in the Pancake Mountains region.

California Gold Buried In The Ghost Town of Ramsey

A gold prospector who was returning from striking it rich in the goldfields of California is said to have buried $75,000 in gold coins and bars when his horse broke its leg. This took place in the town of Ramsey. After burying the gold he set out to Virginia City to get a fresh horse. While there he bragged about the buried to gold to some people in town.

When he was headed back to retrieve the gold he was ambushed and killed. The gold cache was never recovered and is presumed still buried in the ghost town of Ramsey that is located about eight miles northwest of Silver Springs Nevada off of State Highway 50 and 95A in Lyon County.

Gold Coins on the Shores of Pyramid Lake In Nevada

Indians are said to have attacked a wagon train that was carrying Chinese laborers and $50,000 in gold coins in 1814. Indians at the time had no use for gold coins other than to use them as jewelry. It is said that the Indians scattered the gold coins on the beaches of Pyramid Lake close to Anano Island.

It would be well worth the time to metal detect on the beaches of Pyramid Lake. There could be $50,000 in gold coins just waiting to be found.

A Ton of Gold Bullion Buried At Spanish Spring

This story dates back to the late 1700s when Spanish miners buried a ton of gold bullion after Indians had attacked their camp and killed many of them. The spot where they buried the gold is now called Spanish Spring and it’s located eight miles southeast of the ghost town of Manhattan in Nye County Nevada. ( Spanish Spring Coordinates 39° 39′ 30″ N, 119° 41′ 42″ W)

Two Treasure Chests of Silver Buried Near Mountain Springs Summit

In 1897 it is said that a gold miner buried 2 treasure chests full of silver coins and bars near Mountain Springs Summit which is about 20 miles southwest of Las Vegas and northwest of the Potosi Mountains. If the treasure chests are still there it would be worth thousands!

Buried Loot In Six Mile Canyon

In October of 1927, the Virginia City Bank was robbed. The bandits got away with an undisclosed sum of money. It is said that they buried the loot somewhere in Six Mile Canyon which is located east of Virginia City, Nevada. The bandits were hung and they never revealed exactly where the loot was buried.

Cache of Gold Nuggets On Echo Summit

Snowshoe Thompson was a gold prospector who is said to have buried 420 pounds of gold nuggets on the far side of Echo Summit. He died of a heart attack not long after that so he was never able to go back and recover his gold.

Echo Summit is located near Stateline, Nevada in Douglas County. What a find that would be!

Buried Loot In The Ghost Town of Coyote Springs

Coyote Springs is a ghost town located about 25 miles north of Crystal Springs Nevada. In the 1870s Coyote Springs was a popular hangout for outlaws. Stories abound of many buried loot caches in and around this town.

It would be fun to take a trip to Coyote Springs with a metal detector and a good shovel. There could be a ton of treasure hidden all over that town!

William Henry Knight’s Lost Cave of Gold

William Henry Knight was a mapmaker for the United States government. He was in Nevada in 1860 exploring for information that he could use on his map of the Pacific States. He wandered into a cave that he said was laced in gold.

But he was unable to find the cave again after he had left. As far as is known the cave was located on a small mountain range called Painted Hills near Sand Springs in Esmeralda County Nevada. Maybe someday someone lucky will stumble upon that cave again!

Two Buried Safes Near Goldfield

Goldfield was a mining town in Nevada. A flash flood struck the town in 1913 and it’s said that two safes containing hundreds of gold coins were washed away west of town. There ended up being tons of mud in the area. The two safes are said to be buried under all that mud that has hardened over time.

The two safes and gold coins have never been recovered. If you are willing to do some digging and get dirty take a trip to Goldfield Nevada it might yield some treasure!

Harry Bishop’s Wooden Leg Loot

Harry Bishop was a geologist who worked in the mines around Goldfield Nevada. One day the mine that he was in collapsed and he lost both of his legs. Harry could no longer work in the mines so he had to take a lesser paying job and worked as a smelter.

Over time Harry got angry with his new role and decided to start stealing from the company that he worked for. He would steal gold using his hollowed-out wooden leg. Bishop was finally caught after doing this for some time. He was sent to prison. When they went to his home they found about $50,000 worth of gold nuggets that he had stolen hidden in his basement.

The company estimated that he had stolen near $100,000 worth of gold. So where was the rest of it? It is presumed that the remaining $50,000 in gold is still hidden somewhere in the town of Goldfield because Bishop never returned and the gold has never been recovered.

Conclusion Lost Treasures of Nevada

Well, there you have it 15 lost treasures of Nevada. These are just a few of the many lost treasure stories that come out of Nevada. There are many more ghost towns and lost gold and silver mines that blanket this history-rich state. You never know what else is hidden here. But what’s for sure is that the landscape in Nevada is breathtaking and dangerous at the same time.

If you plan on treasure hunting in Nevada make sure you are well prepared and have plenty of water because it can be dangerously hot out in the desert. I hope you enjoyed this article. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below I love hearing from my readers. Until next time Happy Treasure Hunting!

Author: Cory Haasnoot

5 thoughts on “15 Lost Treasures of Nevada”

Great Stories of treasure hunting. I am so interested in the history, and would love to find out more detail to each of these 15 lost treasures. Just reading about them is fun.

Glad you enjoyed them. There are more lost treasure stories that I have written as well from other states if you are interested. Just click on Lost Treasure in the main menu of the site. I will have covered each of the 50 states soon. I’m a huge history fan as well and enjoy writing these articles. Thanks for your comment I appreciate it!

Hello I loved the stories. I live in Nevada and wanted to search for theCalifornia Gold Buried In The Ghost Town of Ramsey. Can you please lead me to where you found the information. So I can look further into it . Thank you!

Hi Nick, glad you enjoy the lost treasure stories! The story in question I gathered from various websites online. What I wrote in the article is about as much information as I could dig up. You might want to try searching old newspaper articles from 1848 onward, you might get lucky and find something more written about it. That is all the information I have on the story. Your comment is appreciated! Thanks for reading and Happy Treasure Hunting!! Cory

Hey Cory I really enjoyed your stories. Would you happen to have any more information about the Coyote Springs area? Thanks in advance Bryan

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

'+n.contentRating+"

"+n+" "+t.config.saAria.shownText+"

"+e.config.saAria.closedText+"

Yahoo Local Web Search

Search results.

Website: treasuretours.net

Phone: (702) 360-7978

7575 W Washington Ave, Suite 127-113 Las Vegas, NV 89128 6924.32 mi

Is this your business? Verify your listing

• Family friendly

• Find Nearby: ATMs ,  Hotels ,  Night Clubs ,  Parkings ,  Movie Theaters

TripAdvisor Reviews

5.0 543 reviews

A Wedding, spent 5. Days FunFun. Went to all the big casinos , they were beautiful so many things to see and do. Went to the old part of Vegas . Lots of the old buildings and casinos. Went to the top.... More

More reviews on Tripadvisor.com

You may also like

• Suggestions
• Privacy Dashboard
• About this page

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Treasure Tours of Nevada - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

 The State Treasurer’s Las Vegas Office is open by appointment only. Please call (702) 486-4140 to schedule.

Love Exploring

23 Places In America To Have A Real Life Treasure Hunt

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: February 23, 2024

Hidden gems

Fremont County, Wyoming

Rockhounding is prohibited in Wyoming’s national parks, but there’s no stopping you hunting for treasure outside of these zones and one of the best places is in Fremont County. Most gem enthusiasts come here in search of nephrite jade, jasper and turritella agate, while waterways like the Sweetwater and Wind Rivers are also known for their quartz and agate deposits. Since there is no specific mine to visit here, it’s best to join a local rockhounding group.

Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine, Blowing Rock, North Carolina

There are 800 active mines in North Carolina and this gem-mining center, run by Randy ‘Doc’ McCoy, offers the chance to find out more about the region’s diverse minerals, from topaz, moonstone, feldspar and epidote, to ruby and sapphire. The spot runs gold prospecting and gemstone collecting tours from late spring through to fall, and you can turn your gems into jewelry at McCoy Minerals Inc, located on Main Street, Blowing Rock. Visitors can also buy and sift through a range of seeded ore bags, which might contain everything from arrowheads and shark teeth to amethysts.

Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, Philipsburg, Montana

Dubbed Montana’s largest, oldest and best sapphire mine, Gem Mountain welcomes gemstone hunters of all ages. You can book a slot for sluicing sapphires, rubies and moonstones at the official mine, located off the Anaconda-Pintler Scenic Route. Alternatively, drop into the site in downtown Philipsburg which has an indoor sapphire washing area and jewelry shop. See if you can hunt down the ‘Royal Blue’ or ‘Cornflower Blue’ sapphires, the most sought-after varieties of this striking gem.

Emerald Hollow Mine, Hiddenite, North Carolina

The Piedmont region in North Carolina is renowned for its hiddenite and this mine invites members of the public to go prospecting for this famous gem, said to be one of the rarest in the world. Both amateur and more experienced rockhounds are welcome and you have the option to purchase a bucket of earth to wash off in the sluiceway or dig your own minerals in the pit mine. Prospecting in the scenic mountain creek is a popular option too.

Spokane Bar Sapphire Mine, Helena, Montana

An alternative sapphire mine in Montana is this one, in the Missouri River area, which was originally mined for gold in the 1800s when the so-called ‘blue stones’ clogging up the sluices were deemed worthless. Today, you can visit the mine, around 14 miles (23km) east of Helena, to sluice for sapphires from ancient river deposits or buy a bag of concentrated gravel that you can explore on site.

Benitoite Mining Company, Coalinga, California

Coalinga is famed for its abundance of benitoite, and mining here dates back to the early 1900s. Visitors flock to this mining attraction to hunt for these bright blue crystals alongside neptunite, joaquinite and natrolite. All tools are provided and experienced miners will guide you through your hunt. It all takes place outside on a screening field where masses of ore are left for you to dig and explore. The company is hoping to offer gem collecting workshops and classes soon too.

Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine, Virgin Valley, Nevada

Opal prospecting has been happening in Nevada since the early 1900s and Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine, located 30 miles southwest of Denio, is open for digs each summer. It offers 'tailings digging' (digging from material that has already been mined) which is ideal for beginners, as well as virgin ground loads (digging from fresh clay and dirt, knocked down from an excavator), which is great for more experienced rockhounds.

Jade Cove, Big Sur, California

If you’re looking for incredible views while you’re gem hunting, Big Sur is your place. This rugged stretch of Californian coastline is home to an area known as Jade Cove, where people have been searching for the eponymous gemstone for years. You’ll need sturdy walking shoes as the trails can be very steep and there are strict guidelines to follow since it lies within Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Many high-value gems have long gone in the area but go with a keen eye and a sense of adventure, and you'll be rewarded with Pacific views and maybe a bit of treasure.

Spectrum Sunstone Mine, Plush, Oregon

The state of Oregon is known for its precious sunstone and visitors can have a go at searching for this reddish-orange gem at Spectrum Sunstone Mine in Plush. The center, situated in the Warner Valley, offers guests a pile of unprocessed ore to explore and dig all day. Alternatively, opt for a high-grate pit digging experience, where you get to use various tools to comb through basalt lava rock and keep any gems you find. Cabins and tipis are available for anyone who wants to stay the night.

Nantahala River Gem Mine, Bryson City, North Carolina

The mountainous region of western North Carolina is known for its natural deposits of rubies and sapphires, but at this attraction visitors can also find emeralds, garnets, topaz, amethysts, citrine, peridot, moonstones and myriad other gems. Once you’ve discovered your treasure, take it to the on-site gemologist who will evaluate them and discuss how you’d like them cut. Bryson City is also an outdoor-lover’s paradise, with horseback riding, fishing, river rafting and train tours to the scenic Nantahala River Gorge.

Graves Mountain, Lincolnton, Georgia

Rutile, a crystal-like mineral commonly used to polish diamonds, was famously mined at Graves Mountain by Tiffany in the early 1900s, but you can collect a whole host of other gems – from quartz crystals and iridescent hematite to kyanite and turgite – here too. The quarry is usually open for selected three-day digs in May and October and you have to book an appointment with the caretaker to join field trips to the site. Visitors must bring their own tools and equipment for scratching and breaking the rocks, as well as safety glasses and a rocker screen for sifting.

Oceanview Mine, Pala, California

In the late 19th century and early 20th century, ex-Gold Rush miners purportedly discovered a bounty of tourmalines and other precious gems surrounding the community of Pala. Today, Oceanview Mine hosts trips to an active mine, where visitors pay a standard dig fee and can take up to five gallons of rock home after you’ve screened and washed it. Expect to find anything from kunzite and triphane to aquamarine and quartz. The trip includes jeep tours of Chief Mountain with views of Pala Chief, Tourmaline Queen and other famous sites.

Crystal Hill, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, Arizona

Arizona is a treasure trove of semi-precious gemstones and mineral specimens. And you can find specimens such as quartz and semi-precious gemstones such as agates, jasper and onyx, if you have a keen eye and fancy an independent rockhounding trip. Check out the aptly-named Crystal Hill, an area of Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in the Livingston Hills, around 150 miles west of Phoenix. Non-commercial mineral collecting (without digging) is permitted in this specific area and you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding desert wilderness.

Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, Hendersonville, North Carolina

Another of North Carolina’s top gem-hunting spots is this one in Henderson County, where prospectors have been mining for generations. Young rockhounds are invited to don their hard hats and purchase a ‘Little Miner’ bucket which they can sluice in covered outdoor or indoor flumes for a wide range of gems, from sapphires and quartz crystals to sodalite and peacock copper. There are also goats and peacocks on site, plus waterfalls and forests to explore nearby.

Himalaya Tourmaline Mine, Santa Ysabel, California

You’ll find an array of mines in San Diego dedicated to high-quality tourmaline, the ‘gem of the rainbow’. But this one, in the Mesa Grande mining district, some 20 miles east of Pala in San Diego County, claims to be the best. Not only has this mine been active for over 100 years, it has apparently produced more of these beautiful pink and green gems than any other. Digs take place in groups outside, with instructors on hand to tell you about the minerals. You can also order ore bags to be sent out to your home.

Alabama Gold Camp, Lineville, Alabama

Red garnets and citrine can be found at this popular attraction in Alabama, but you may have a chance of finding gold too. The site has miles of creek where you can sluice for gemstones and glittering flakes of gold. And if a couple of hours spent dredging and sluicing isn’t enough, you can camp on the creek or campsite, or hire one of the prospecting shacks. There are fossils and indigenous artifacts to discover here too.

Garnet Mine Tours, North River, New York

Known as the state gemstone of New York, the barton garnet is a ruby red variety of gemstone and can be found high up on Gore Mountain in the Adirondack range. Usually known as a top skiing destination, this scenic region also offers organized tours of the historic Barton mines and you can spend time digging for these hard gems in the mountaintop pits. You’ll learn about the history of the mine and a trip to the Gem & Mineral Shop is included, to weigh your garnets and see gem-cutting demos.

Dig Maine Gems, West Paris, Maine

Mount Mica is where the first rose quartz crystals were found around 1915 and visitors are taken here on field trips with this rockhounding outfit. Visitors are kitted out with shovels, sifting screens, potato diggers and rinse water, and it's recommended you bring two large buckets for taking your rocks home in. You can also sift through buckets of pre-dug rocks on the dig site in West Paris. Aside from the famed rose quartz, you could leave with red garnets, an array of tourmaline varieties, mica and feldspar.

Diamond Hill Mine, Abbeville, South Carolina

Gem hunters can dig to their heart’s content at this site, with six acres of ground to mine in the southern Appalachian Mountains. It’s best known for its wide variety of quartz crystals, but beryl, garnet and epidote have also been discovered here and in rare cases, purple amethyst too. It’s a simple set-up with picnic tables and no running water, so come with plenty of supplies if you plan to stay long.

Royal Peacock Opal Mine, Denio, Nevada

This pay-to-dig opal mine has been open since 1981 and some of the most impressive Virgin Valley black opals – which formed millions of years ago – are said to derive from here. Opals of many other colors can also be discovered and visitors who come to the attraction, open from May to October, are taken through the basics by staff, before they start their dig. Choose from the tougher ‘bank digging’ or, for something less demanding, you can ‘rake the tailings' or sift through a mine dump. The company has a campsite, cabin and cottage for overnight stays too.

Emerald Village, Little Switzerland, North Carolina

Emerald Village, known for its picturesque setting in Little Switzerland, offers an intriguing underground tour of the historic Bon Ami Mine and plenty of activities, from gold panning to exploring the North Carolina Mining Museum. You can pay a fee to dig for gems at the dump – a mass of ore from the historic McKinney Mines – or purchase a gem bucket at the flume, which may contain up to 25 different gem varieties from citrine to smoky quartz.

The Lilly Pad Village, Blue Ridge, Georgia

Situated around eight miles out of Blue Ridge in the Aska Adventure Area of Georgia, this family-friendly attraction offers a fun day out for young gem-mining enthusiasts. Experts here offer plenty of advice and information as little miners get to work on finding their treasure and there’s the option to purchase a number of different-sized buckets of gem dirt to sluice on site. There's usually gem polishing, plus fishing and miniature golf available too.

Pigeon Forge Gem Mine, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Located near Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this popular attraction welcomes all sorts of rockhounds with a wide range of gemstones ready to be unearthed, from ruby and sapphires to garnets and amethysts. Visitors can choose between four different-sized buckets to dig from, each containing a unique mix of gemstones and fossils. After you’ve found your treasure, have it cut and polished, and mounted into your own jewelry to take home. There’s also a rock and fossil museum on site.

Crater of Diamonds State Park, Murfreesboro, Arkansas

There are few places in the world where you can dig for real diamonds in their original, volcanic source, but this 37-acre field in western Arkansas is one of them, with the largest diamond in the USA originating from here. You can hire equipment or bring your own (no motorized tools allowed), and the visitor center and Diamond Discovery Center provide a perfect introduction to this sought-after gem. This place made the news when one visitor found a 4.38kt yellow diamond in 2021.

Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, Franklin, North Carolina

The most famous ruby mines can be found in Myanmar but this one, nestled in the scenic Cowee Valley of western North Carolina, is one of the best in the United States. Open from April to October, it allows rockhounds to sluice through rock and dirt – using water from the Caler Creek – in search of sapphires, garnets and rutile. Experts are on hand to offer tips on how to identify each stone.

These are America's most beautiful mountains

More for You

Ukraine Issues Warning to Russia After Black Sea Fleet Strikes

How to keep bananas from turning brown: Store it properly to maintain freshness

See the Faces of Four Scots Across Thousands of Years of History, Brought to Life Using A.I.

The world’s most remote island open to tourists no longer takes five nights to get to

James Bond ranked: from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig, who played him best?

Humans could become extinct unless we change sex as we know it

The Most Iconic Wedding Gowns In History

20 Foods That Will Give You Serious Childhood Nostalgia

Does magnesium help you sleep? What the research tells us about benefits, dosage and more

Supreme Court Likely to Side With Biden on Ruling That Could Change Free Speech

Judge hands Trump another gag order as he grants restrictions in hush money trial

Attack on Pakistan naval base results in six killed

18 Things In Your Home Professional Organizers Will Always Get Rid Of

This Homemade Spaghetti Sauce Is What Family Pasta Nights Are All About

What is the rarest blood type? Here is the least common of the eight blood types

Mega Millions announces winner of $1.13 billion jackpot

I quit sugar for 6 months and this is what it did to my face and body

10 Countries To Live Outside the US That Are So Cheap You Could Quit Your Job

North Korea Images Spark Nuclear Fears

3 things to never do at work, according to an HR professional with 10 years' worth of experience

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

TREASURE TOURS OF NEVADA (Las Vegas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

TREASURE TOURS OF NEVADA (Las Vegas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Treasure Tours of Nevada

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

TREASURE TOURS OF NEVADA (Las Vegas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

• 8 of the Quirkiest Towns in California's Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range covers a substantial part of eastern and northeastern California, as well as some of the land around Lake Tahoe in western Nevada. This mountain range is best known for being the home of Yosemite National Park and Mount Whitney , the tallest peak in the contiguous United States. Along with that and the discovery of gold in Sutter’s Mill in 1848, the Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for being home to some of the most eccentric towns in California. From the basalt columns of Mammoth Lakes to interactive horticulture lessons in Placerville, here are some of the quirkiest towns California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range has to offer.

Mammoth Lakes

The town of Mammoth Lakes is a wonderful destination home to roughly seven thousand residents. Located near the Inyo National Forest, it boasts a variety of natural wonders that assist with its unique, distinctive status. Some that stand out are Rainbow Falls, the Obsidian Dome, and Devils Postpile, all within a 30-minute drive. Devils Postpile consists of over four hundred basalt columns formed from rapidly cooling lava, and Rainbow Falls is a multi-hued waterfall over a hundred feet in height. Similarly, the Obsidian Dome is a magnificent mountain made entirely of black volcanic glass, offering another unique sight in California’s wilderness. To top it off, Mammoth Lakes is a wellspring for skiers with the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and tons of wonderful cottages to enjoy during winter.

To the southeast of Mammoth Lakes, on the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada ridgeline, the town of Lone Pine is home to a variety of different attributes that cater to a quirky yet nostalgic quality. The Mobius Arch, the most popular rock foundation in the Alabama Hills, presents a picturesque view of Mount Whitney. Meanwhile, the Saline Valley Warm Springs, an oasis on the northwest edge of Death Valley National Park , provides a needed respite from the desert heat with a series of glistening thermal springs. Closer to town, the Museum of Western Film History showcases some famous Western actors and actresses, as well as filming sites of some of the more famous Western movies, like “Gunga Din” and “How the West Was Won,” and television shows.

Located southwest of Yosemite National Park in Mariposa County, the quaint town of Mariposa has several natural and historical values that exude a quirky charm. For example, history enthusiasts can listen to tales of old at sites like the Mariposa County Courthouse & Old Stone Jail. From guided tours of rustic rooms to interesting stories of criminals, they are full of fun.

Yet, this town of around 1,500 people has a more unique aspect to share with travelers. Due to witnessing a large amount of Monarch butterflies during its early winters, the early settlers named the town Mariposa, the Spanish word for butterfly. Even today, the annual Mariposa Butterfly Festival boasts stunning wildlife, food, and drinks. Along with gaining such a colorful moniker so early in life, Mariposa is within an hour of several fabulous waterfalls, including Horsetail Falls and Wildcat Falls.

Truckee, situated several miles north of Mariposa in Nevada County, is a laid-back town home to around seventeen thousand people. Yet, this does not affect the variety of unique, enjoyable activities and amenities available in town and the surrounding area. Donner Memorial State Park, honoring the Donner Party of the winter of 1846-1847, offers camping, boating, fishing, and hiking in the warmer seasons, as well as snowshoeing, snowboarding, and skiing during winter. Some of the best ski resorts are in close proximity to town, including Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley. During the summer, visitors can check out Baldwin Beach, only forty miles south of Truckee, on the western side of Lake Tahoe .

Often overlooked for larger cities, the town of Colfax, in Placer County, is a diamond in the rough. Colfax is a treasure trove for the outdoor enthusiast, home to several attributes and attractions, like Rollins Lake, Codfish Creek Falls Discovery Trail, and G&J Outdoors. Activities like hiking, fishing, and even hunting are available for an adrenaline rush. Yet, this town of around two thousand people also has a unique, quirky historical presence. In the spring of 1852, before the town was even a town, the Reelfoot Williams Gang robbed a Nevada City stagecoach. This was the first stagecoach ever robbed in California, with the rovers stealing $7,000 in gold bullion. Of course, at this time, Colfax was only a mining hub that went by the name Illinoistown.

Grass Valley

The quaint town of Grass Valley, east of Lake Wildwood, is a quirky destination in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. To this end, every activity in town is accompanied by the majestic backdrop of grand peaks. For cultural travelers, Grass Valley is home to the Empire Mine State Historic Park and the North Star Mining Museum. The Empire Mine is one of the oldest, largest, deepest, longest, and richest gold mines in California, while the mining museum, and others like it, showcase the aspects of mining for gold during the 1850s. Also established in the 1800s, the Old St. Patrick’s Cemetery sits astride Church Street and Chapel Street, across from St. Patrick’s Parish in the town of Grass Valley.

Markleeville

Markleeville is a quaint town located about fifty miles south to southeast of Lake Tahoe, along State Route 89 in Alpine County. Upon arrival, Markleeville seems like a simple town home to two hundred residents, but there is more than meets the eye here. For example, the Grover Hot Springs State Park and Hangman’s Bridge stand out with unique opportunities. Grover Hot Springs State Park offers activities and amenities such as hiking, swimming, and viewing some of the most scenic vistas in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Those interested in an immersive experience can also camp for an evening or the weekend, either in an RV, a cabin, or a tent. On the other hand, Hangman’s Bridge stands as a reminder of the past when, in the year 1874, a murderer was thrown over the bridge and hanged by a group of vigilantes. End the day with a drink at the Cutthroat Markleeville, known for its delicious drinks and eccentric vibes.

Placerville

Placerville, a lively town in El Dorado County, is the perfect haven for all kinds of travelers. This town of ten thousand residents possesses attributes catering to both individuals and groups looking for a quirky retreat. For an experience with nature, opt for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden. This charming expanse offers interactive horticulture, with sixteen different gardens to be experienced by the public. Similarly, the Gold Bug Park, with an included museum, allows for interactivity with a real-life goldmine. There is also the Eldorado National Forest to consider, where wildlife and nature create a pristine vibe rarely found elsewhere. Furthermore, Eldorado also offers camping at over a dozen campgrounds, so one can opt for a truly outdoor experience while still being near civilization.

These eight towns in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains are full of quirky opportunities that are perfect for a trip to The Golden State. Whether visiting the Obsidian Dome in Mammoth Lakes or the Mobius Arch in the Alabama Hills in Lone Pine, there is always something to explore in the mountains of California. Moreover, each town showcases a unique side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, so one will always have a fresh experience to enjoy.

More in Places

7 Most Scenic Small Towns in The Poconos

6 Most Scenic Small Towns in the Rockies

9 Top-Rated Small Towns In Louisiana

7 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Mississippi

7 Serene Towns in the Northern United States for a Weekend Retreat

These Towns in California's Sierra Nevada Come Alive in Spring

Texas's 13 Most Underrated Towns to visit in 2024

6 Most Scenic Small Towns in South Dakota