Relive Juneau’s gold rush history by panning for gold and then enjoy a delicious salmon bake at Salmon Creek!
A costumed prospector will drive you to historic Last Chance Basin. You will trace the route taken by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris in their search for gold over 100 years ago. Near the famous Alaska-Juneau gold mine, one of the world's largest hard rock mining operations at its peak, you will get hands-on experience panning for gold in Gold Creek. Everyone of all ages, and those with limited mobility, can learn how to pan and capture the full gold-rush experience. You’re guaranteed to find gold! And, all that glitters is yours to keep.
Around you are remnants of the original buildings of the Alaska-Juneau Mining Company, which at the height of production was the largest operation of its type in the world. You’ll learn about the mining techniques that were used, and more about the quest for gold that is so much a part of Alaska’s history. Take home a souvenir Orelove Brothers Gold Claim Certificate, all the gold you find, and an appreciation of what is was like to seek your fortune in the wilds of Alaska more than a century ago.
Gold-panning is hungry work, so you’re sure to have an appetite. Experience Alaska's original outdoor salmon bake. Upon arrival at Gold Creek Salmon Bake, Alaskan-caught wild salmon will be grilling over an open alder wood fire. The sumptuous spread has something for everyone with a variety of Alaskan entrees, sides, and blueberry cake for dessert. Relax listening to live Alaskan folk music in a truly unique, lush rainforest environment under heated, translucent domes.
Take a short stroll along a natural salmon-spawning creek to the entrance of the Wagner Mine at beautiful Salmon Creek Falls where you can pan for gold, see mining relics, and look for salmon. Have fun roasting marshmallows over a campfire and taking photos at our interactive, gold rush mural. The food, entertainment, activities, and ambiance make Gold Creek Salmon Bake an Alaskan experience that is much more than a meal. Explore at your leisure, and then hop on one of the buses provided when you are ready to go back downtown.