Last Chance Basin & Panning Experience

OVERVIEW

Relive Juneau’s gold rush history by panning for gold in Gold Creek, where prospector Joe Juneau struck it rich in 1880. Accompanied by a costumed prospector, you will enjoy a narrated tour through the capital’s historic district before making your way to Last Chance Basin. The route will be the same one that Juneau followed, guided by the Tlingit Chief Kowee. Juneau’s discovery launched a gold rush that lasted six decades and produced $150 million in nuggets, a figure worth about $7 billion today. After watching a panning demonstration, you will have the opportunity to coax a nugget out of the creek. Finding gold is guaranteed, but it will take skill and a bit of good luck to leave with a large nugget worth taking home. After panning in the creek, you may view the remnants of the old mine as your guide recaptures the history of Juneau’s gold discovery.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow the route Joe Juneau took when he discovered gold in 1880.
• Pan for gold in the creek that launched the Juneau gold rush.
• See one of the original gold rush mines.
• Learn fascinating facts about the discovery of gold in Alaska.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring rainwear as a precaution.