Pay-To-Dig Gem Mines in Colorado

Mount Antero (14,276 ft) is one of the highest gem localities in North America and famous for exceptional aquamarine crystals. Access via 4WD trail to about 13,000 ft then hike to collecting areas. The high-altitude pegmatites also yield topaz, smoky quartz, and fluorapatite. This is a BLM public collecting area — no fee required but high-clearance 4WD essential.

Dig for amazonite, smoky quartz, and topaz in the crystal-rich pegmatites of the Pikes Peak Batholith. One of the most accessible fee-dig pegmatite localities in the Rocky Mountain region. Amazonite from this area displays vivid blue-green color. Tools provided. Open seasonally May through October.

Collect real dinosaur tracks and fossils from Jurassic-age Morrison Formation mudstone in Colorado. Find prehistoric trackways, plant fossils, and bone fragments. Guided digs available year-round.

Dig for amazonite, smoky quartz, topaz, and phenakite in Colorado's famous Crystal Peak area pegmatites. One of the top fee-dig operations in the Rocky Mountain region with excellent finds year-round.

Collect amazonite, smoky quartz, and topaz from Colorado's famous pegmatite fields near Lake George.

Collect world-class aquamarine and phenakite crystals from this famous Colorado pegmatite. Considered one of the best aquamarine localities in the world.

One of the highest gem localities in North America — aquamarine and phenakite at 14,000 ft.

Pan for gold in a historic Colorado gold mining site. Great for families.