ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Interested in panning or mining for gold near Asheville? It’s not as far-fetched as it sounds.

Western North Carolina has a rich history of gold mining — the first U.S. gold rush actually began in the state in the early 1800s. While the largest discoveries historically occurred south of Asheville, particularly around Charlotte, there are still spots near Asheville where modern-day prospectors can try their luck.

Here are some options:​

1. South Toe River (Yancey County)

• About an hour northeast of Asheville.
• Known for placer gold — good for panning.
• Pan near the riverbanks or in slower-moving bends.
• Beautiful setting near Mount Mitchell.

2. Little East Fork Pigeon River (Haywood County)

• About an hour west of Asheville.
• Some reports of fine gold, usually requires sluicing or highbanking.

3. Catawba River (south/east of Asheville)

• Around Marion and Morganton.
• Historically known for small gold finds.

4. Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine (Marion)

• A family-friendly pay-to-dig site.
• Offers gold panning, sluicing and equipment rental.
• You get access to a creek with documented gold.

5. Thermal City Gold Mine (Union Mills)

• A bit farther southeast of Asheville (about 1.5 hours).
• A pay-to-pan site with a campground.
• Offers equipment rental, gold panning and even dredging for more serious prospectors.

What you’ll need

• Gold pan (14-inch dual-riffle is a great starter)
• Classifier/sifter to sort out larger rocks
• Snuffer bottle to collect fine flakes
• Vial for your gold
• Waders or waterproof boots for river work

A few tips

• Pan after heavy rains – they can stir up new deposits.
• Get permission if you’re on private land.
• Stay legal — national forests may allow casual prospecting, but check local rules.
• Be patient — you’ll mostly find flakes, not nuggets.
• Join local groups or forums.

Other valuable stones can be found in the region. Western North Carolina, especially the area around Franklin and the Cowee Valley, is known for ruby hunting. Franklin is often called the “Gem Capital of the World” due to its abundant gemstone deposits.

Here are some options:

Emerald Village

• About 40 minutes from Asheville.
• A historic site comprising 12 real mines. Features gem mining, a mining museum and guided tours.

Pisgah Forest Gem Mine

• Offers indoor and outdoor gem mining experiences, a rock shop and gold panning.
• Open year-round with locations in Pisgah Forest and Hendersonville.

Elijah Mountain Gem Mine And Crystal Store

• A family-friendly gem mine in Hendersonville where visitors can search for real gemstones and gold.
• Known for its variety of gems and interactive mining experience.

Asheville Gem Mine

• Located in downtown Asheville.
• This mine offers rich ore from various locations, providing a convenient gem mining experience without leaving the city.

Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

• Located in Franklin.
• This mine is a popular spot for amateur and serious rockhounds.

Old Cardinal Gem Mine

• Situated in the Cowee area near Franklin.
• This mine has been operating since 1900 and offers a chance to find rare rubies and sapphires.

Mason’s Ruby & Sapphire Mine

• Located in Franklin.
• Known for lilac sapphires, this mine is another great option for a day of family fun finding gems.

Rose Creek Mine

• Located in Franklin.
• Offers a variety of gems, including rubies, sapphires and more.