Breckenridge History & Museums: Washington Mine, Colorado

Breckenridge Colorado
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Washington Mine & Milling Exhibit

This is a self-guided site with interpretive signs that tell the story of miners who worked long hours underground in search of precious minerals. See original mining equipment and structures at this reconstructed site. A new milling exhibit features all the major equipment used to process ore brought out from underground mines

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  • Self-guided site with interpretive signs
  • Award-winning Milling Exhibit
  • No underground mine tour or gold panning at this site
  • Accessible summer and fall, weather dependent. Limited Parking.

Overview

The Washington Mine was an important producer throughout its life using both types of mining – underground (hardrock or lode) and placer. The Washington Mine was an important source of gold, silver, lead, and zinc. As was generally true throughout the Breckenridge area, the gold came primarily from the placer mining operations, while the silver, lead, and zinc came primarily from the underground mining.

Washington Milling Exhibit was awarded The Beselme-Orrell Heritage Award, a national award, from the Mining History Association in 2022. The national award was established in 2013 to recognize contributions to the understanding and appreciation of mining.

Location/Directions

Heading south on Main St., take a left on Boreas Pass Rd. After one mile, turn right on Illinois Gulch Rd. The parking lot and mine will be about a quarter mile ahead on the left. The estimated drive time from downtown is 15 minutes.

465 Illinois Gulch Rd.
Breckenridge, CO. 80424

Cost - FREE

Hours/Seasons

This is a self-guided exhibit with limited parking. Accessible during summer and fall, weather dependent

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