Discover hidden treasures in the heart of the Smoky Mountains at Pigeon Forge Gem Mine, a family-owned attraction that has been creating memorable experiences for visitors since 1998. Located right on the Parkway, this hands-on attraction combines treasure hunting, geology, and family fun for guests of all ages.
The adventure begins by choosing a mining bucket filled with material ready to be explored. Take your bucket to the water flume, pour some of the material into a screen tray, and let the flowing water wash away the dirt. As you sift through the material, colorful gemstones, minerals, and fossils begin to emerge and everything you find is yours to keep.
Every bucket offers its own discoveries. Depending on the bucket and assortment, guests may uncover treasures such as amethyst, garnet, aquamarine, emerald, ruby, sapphire, rose quartz, citrine, quartz, agate, and pyrite. Fossil finds can include shark teeth, ammonites, petrified wood, fossilized clams, and other fascinating pieces from the past.
Once you’ve uncovered your treasures, the experience continues with free identification from Pigeon Forge Gem Mine’s gem experts. Staff can help determine exactly what you found and share more information about the different gemstones, minerals, and fossils, adding an educational element to the treasure-hunting experience.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is also home to the only free fossil museum in Pigeon Forge. Admission to the museum is free with no mining purchase required, giving visitors the opportunity to explore rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world. Highlights include a genuine woolly rhinoceros skull and a real mammoth bone that guests can touch.
After mining, explore the Rock & Fossil Shop featuring crystals, gemstones, fossils, handcrafted gemstone jewelry, gifts, and Smoky Mountain souvenirs. Guests can even turn select finds into custom jewelry, creating a unique keepsake from their Pigeon Forge adventure.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine was established in 1998 as part of the Delozier family farm, which has roots in the area dating back to 1881. The same family continues to operate the attraction today, sharing its passion for rocks, fossils, and the excitement of discovery with visitors from around the world.
Located at 2865 Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Pigeon Forge Gem Mine offers an easy to enjoy activity for families, couples, groups, and anyone who loves a good treasure hunt. Whether you uncover a sparkling gemstone, discover an ancient fossil, or explore the free museum, you never know what treasures are waiting to be found.
Limit 1 Per Party. May not be combined with any other offer or discount. Expires 12/31/26.
