Which Goldpanning?

Question

We’d like to do Gold-panning on our upcoming trip and wondering what is the best place to do it with kids ages 8-10. We’ll be spending time in Seward, Girdwood and Anchorage before our cruise and will have a car. So far I’ve found these places - which would you recommend and why, or is there another I’m overlooking?

Adventure 60 North in Seward

Crow Creek in Girdwood

Indian Valley Mine south of Anchorage

Prospector Johns in Cooper Landing

Thank you!

Answer

Gold-panning can be a really fun and educational activity for kids, especially in Alaska! With your trip covering Seward, Girdwood, and Anchorage, you have some great options for family-friendly gold-panning experiences. Below is a comparison of the places you’ve mentioned, along with a recommendation based on what might be best for kids ages 8-10:

1. Adventure 60 North in Seward: This place offers a fun and interactive gold-panning experience, and it’s well-known for being family-friendly. The staff is excellent at guiding beginners through the process of gold panning, and the site is safe for children. Since Seward is more remote, the activity here could be a great way to combine learning with some beautiful, off-the-beaten-path scenery. The experience is relaxed and laid-back, which is ideal for younger children.

2. Crow Creek Mine in Girdwood: Crow Creek Mine is one of the most popular gold-panning spots near Anchorage and Girdwood. It’s known for its beautiful setting, historic buildings, and excellent access to gold-panning areas. For families with kids, Crow Creek offers a combination of history, nature, and hands-on activities, making it a great choice. The mine also provides tools and equipment for visitors, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The mine offers a historic feel and has easy access for families. The area is also beautiful and fun to explore, with an old mining village atmosphere.

3. Indian Valley Mine South of Anchorage: Indian Valley Mine is a nice option if you’re looking for a more rustic, traditional gold-panning experience. This mine is also a great choice for families because it allows for hands-on panning, and it’s not too far from Anchorage, making it convenient if you’re staying there. However, it is a smaller operation than some of the other mines, so while the experience is still fun, it’s more rustic and might not have as many amenities or extras for kids. The natural setting is beautiful, but if you’re looking for something with more organized kid-friendly activities, it might be a bit more low-key compared to other spots.

4. Prospector John’s in Cooper Landing: Prospector John’s in Cooper Landing offers a more immersive experience with opportunities for both gold-panning and learning about the history of mining in the area. This location is great for families because it offers an easy introduction to gold panning, and they focus on making the experience enjoyable for all ages. The staff is friendly and patient with kids, and you can even try your hand at panning in the Kenai River. Cooper Landing is beautiful, and the small town atmosphere is great for a relaxed family outing. It’s a wonderful way to combine gold panning with exploring the stunning surroundings of the Kenai Peninsula.

My Recommendation: For kids ages 8-10, I would recommend either Crow Creek Mine in Girdwood or Prospector John’s in Cooper Landing as the best options. Both offer a great balance of fun, educational value, and family-friendly amenities. Here’s why:

Crow Creek Mine: Offers a mix of history, nature, and gold-panning, making it a great place to engage kids while learning about Alaska’s mining history. It’s safe, has lots of open space, and is easy for families to navigate.
Prospector John’s: This is another family-friendly spot that provides a hands-on, fun experience. The setting is beautiful and peaceful, and the staff is great with kids, ensuring they get the most out of the gold-panning activity. It’s a bit more rustic, but still a great experience for children.

If you’re looking for something with more of a true historic gold-mining feel and are okay with a slightly more rugged experience, Indian Valley Mine could also be a good option. However, for more ease and overall experience, Crow Creek and Prospector John’s might be the best bet for your family!

Regardless of which option you choose, all of these places are sure to provide a memorable experience for your kids, combining fun with a bit of history. Enjoy your trip, and happy panning!