Big Thunder Gold Mine
Big Thunder Gold Mine, originally named the Gold Hill Lode, was discovered in 1882. The mining work was done by two German immigrants, Krupp and Engle. They did not know each other when they came to the Keystone area, but because they could both speak the same language, they became partners.
After some time, however, the future of the mine looked dim and for a while development stopped.
Julius Engle held on to the mine until his death on November 4, 1921. Most owners hold on to the dream of "The Big Discovery." With modem mining techniques, gold may still be waiting to be discovered at Big Thunder.
Because Big Thunder Mine is the safest and best maintained mine in the Keystone milling district, it has been the center of exploration in the area. Big Thunder Mine contains most of the types of rocks, structures, and minerals of the district.
In the future, there may be a modern gold mine producing gold below the 300 foot level of the current Big Thunder Gold Mine. Mining excitement is again alive in the historic Keystone mining district.
Big Thunder Information:
Time needed: 1 hour for tour; up to 2 hours if you want to pan for gold
Best Time to Go: Anytime. Seasonal, May 1~Sept. 30. Hours (June 1~Aug. 31, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) (Sept. 1~30, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m)
Directions: Follow US 16A north to the Keystone stop light (the only one in town) and turn right on Hwy. 40
Cost: Basic Tour: Adults, $8; Children 6-12, $5; Under 6, free. Tour with Gold Panning: Adults, $12.95; Children, 6~12, $9.95; under 6, free. Gold Panning Only: $6.95. (2005 rates)
Highlights: Underground Tour of Old-time Gold Mine, Gold Panning
Address: PO Box 459, Keystone, SD 57751
Phone: 605-666-4847 or 800-314-3917
Currently Outside
