Discover the Kennedy Gold Mine, one of California's deepest and most historic gold mines, located at 12594 Kennedy Mine Rd, Jackson, CA 95642. This remarkable site offers guided tours that delve into the rich history of gold mining in the region.
The Kennedy Gold Mine is not just a destination for history enthusiasts; it is also a great stop for visitors exploring the nearby Shop Amador shopping plaza. After immersing yourself in the fascinating stories of the past, you can enjoy a variety of shops, dining options, and community events that Shop Amador has to offer.
Whether you're interested in mining history or looking for a unique shopping experience, the Kennedy Gold Mine and Shop Amador provide a perfect blend of adventure and retail therapy.
Plan your visit today and take a step back in time while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Jackson.
What to Know Before Touring the Kennedy Gold Mine
The Kennedy Mine was one of the major hard-rock (lode) gold operations of the Mother Lode, the belt of gold-bearing quartz that runs along the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Unlike the placer miners of the early Gold Rush, who washed gold from streams and gravel, lode mines like Kennedy followed quartz veins deep underground. Its shaft reached thousands of feet below the surface, which is why it is often described as one of the deepest gold mines in North America. The mine closed in the mid-twentieth century, and today the surface buildings and equipment tell the story of how that work was done.
Highlights to look for
- The headframe: the tall wooden structure over the main shaft that once hoisted ore and miners. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in Amador County.
- Surface buildings: structures such as the mine office and change house show the daily routines of the people who worked here.
- The tailing wheels: nearby, just off the mine site, the giant Kennedy Tailing Wheels were built to lift waste material over the hills to a settling pond. They are worth a short side trip.
Practical tips
Tours at the Kennedy Mine are typically surface tours, and they have often run seasonally rather than year-round, so check the mine's official website for current days, times and admission before you set out. Wear closed-toe shoes, since paths can be uneven and dusty. Foothill summers get hot, so bring water and a hat, and allow extra time if you want to read the interpretive signs or photograph the headframe.
The mine sits just outside central Jackson, so it pairs easily with an afternoon in town. Browse the stores or find somewhere to eat on our dining page, and see the visit page for getting around Jackson.