The Mollie Kathleen Mine is named after its founder, who was the first woman to stake a gold claim in the Cripple Creek district.
The mine extends 1,000 feet vertically, showcasing the extreme depth required for historic gold extraction in this region.
The tour includes a ride on an underground tram, which is still used to transport visitors through the mine tunnels.
The temperature underground remains constant at approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, regardless of surface weather.
Cripple Creek was once one of the most productive gold-mining districts in the world, often referred to as 'The World's Greatest Gold Camp'.
Gold Mine Tours Inc. offers guided underground excursions into the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a historic site that operated as a commercial gold mine starting in the late 19th century. Visitors descend 1,000 feet below the surface in a hoist cage to explore original underground drifts and stopes. The tour provides a firsthand look at mining equipment and geology unique to the Cripple Creek mining district. Knowledgeable guides explain the technical processes of hard-rock mining and the socio-economic impact of the region's gold rush. The site functions as an educational portal into the industrial history of the Rocky Mountains.
The surface headframe and original mining equipment located near the main entrance.
Wear a light jacket or sweater, as the underground temperature is consistently chilly.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain of the mine tunnels.
Plan to arrive at the site slightly ahead of your intended tour time to check in at the surface office.
Do not wear sandals or open-toed shoes, as the mine floor can be uneven and slightly damp.
Operates seasonally from early spring through autumn; closed during winter months due to sub-zero temperatures and safety logistics.
Safety helmets are provided and must be worn at all times while underground.
