Historic 1880s Gold Mine Jeep Tour near Phoenix
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Experience a slice of Arizona's Wild West history with the Historic 1880's Gold Mine Jeep Adventure near Scottsdale. Hop into our custom Jeep Gladiator and follow the same gold vein that prospector "Old Rackensack" chased back in 1880. This tour offers a safe, hands-on look at old-timers' methods for extracting gold, giving you a real taste of Arizona’s rich past.
Along the way, you'll explore the rugged Upper Sonoran Desert landscape, making stops to photograph local flora and fauna. Learn about Rackensack Canyon’s archaeological Indian ruins through engaging narration. After a thrilling mountain ride to the Summit Studio and Gift Shop, enjoy complimentary refreshments before heading into the historic mine.
With a certified off-road desert guide at the wheel, you'll enjoy a comfortable, safe ride that showcases breathtaking vistas. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an adventure, this tour delivers a memorable journey into Arizona's gold rush days.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 9 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 2 to 17 and adults up to 99 can participate. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll receive complimentary bottled water, a tour inside the gold mine with guide interaction, snacks at the mountaintop studio, access to the gift shop, and activities like steer head roping, cornhole, and horseshoes. Restroom facilities are also available.
Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities for the guide are not included and are at your discretion.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Complementary bottled water during the Jeep ride
- Tour inside the historic gold mine with artifact explanations
- Snacks at the mountaintop studio
- Access to gift shop
- Studio activities: steer head roping, cornhole, horseshoes
- Restroom facilities
Not included
- Tour guide gratuity
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Meet at Carefree Town Center, on the east side of the famous Sundial. Enjoy the small-town charm with great restaurants and shops before departure.
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Stop 2
Travel along a private road easement in Tonto National Forest, connecting to North Scottsdale and Carefree. The trailhead is about 15 minutes northeast of the starting point.
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Stop 3
Visit the exclusive Mountain Top Sanctuary, offering spectacular wildflower views in spring, occasional snow in winter, and panoramic vistas from the summit. This private location makes each tour truly unique.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Pickup at Carefree Town Center, on the east side of the 35-foot-tall Sundial, near the Hampton Inn. The white Jeep Gladiator will be parked there, ready for your departure.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day prior
- No refund if canceled within 0–1 days
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $195.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
