mine tours bc

Check Alberta 511 for road updates before you come!

Closing weekend is september 2 bring warm clothes.  it's cold inside. ​  .

EXPERIENCE THE dark LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Construction is ongoing throughout the summer on 213 street (main street) in bellevue.  we are still open and we understand it is frustrating, but contact us and we will help guide you through the detour..

The Bellevue Underground Mine is a unique and historically designated underground coal mine located in the Crowsnest Pass. We provide visitors with an authentic experience of what it was like to be a coal miner, while on an exciting hour-long tour underground guided by Heritage Interpreters.

Walk in the miners' footsteps

The guided underground tour will take you 1,000 feet into the mine, where you will be 150 feet below the surface. Explore the mine's inner-workings while you learn about the rich history of one of Canada's underground coal mines.

Wander around our location and take a look at some of the historic underground mine machinery we have on site.

When you are done outside come inside our main building and see some of the artifacts we currently have on display.

Explore the Past

Go Underground

Equipped with a miner’s helmet and lamp head underground with one of our Heritage Interpreters.

The guided tour will last roughly 1 hour. Travel back in time to explore the rich underground mining history of the Crowsnest Pass.

Plan your  Visit

Don't forget to book your tour in advance, walk-ins will not be guaranteed.

Remember to dress warmly, and check out our KNOW BEFORE YOU GO page for additional details.

Britannia Mine Museum Visitors Guide + Tickets

The Britannia Mine Museum stands as an acclaimed institution and a national historic landmark, situated on the site of the former largest copper mine within the British Empire.

Explorers can delve into its rich history, embark on a train journey through underground passages, and try their hand at gold panning, immersing themselves in the firsthand experience of life within one of North America’s few remaining gravity-fed mills.

Strap on those hard hats and let the adventure begin!

Britannia Mine Museum

The Britannia Mine Museum is located 55 kilometres North of Downtown Vancouver near the town of Squamish . The Britannia Mine Museum has become one of the most popular things to do in the Vancouver area, and it’s one of the best day trips from Vancouver going.

Furthermore, the mine is halfway between Vancouver and Whistler in the stunning Sea to Sky Corridor. So a visit to the Britannia Mine Museum is also a popular way to break up the drive. 

History of the Britannia Mine Museum

From 1904 to 1974, the museum functioned as one of the most important mines in the Commonwealth. Over that period, an incredible 60,000 people called the site home and over 50,000,000 tons of ore were extracted!

This number included over 15 tons of gold.

The mine helped Canada through two World Wars during its 70-year lifespan. Unfortunately, it also experienced its fair share of tragedy. An estimated 98 workers perished in its massive 210-kilometre network of underground tunnels due to slides, fires, floods and accidents.

Britannia Mining Museum Today

A year after closing in 1975, the BC Museum of Mining opened its doors on the site. After two significant upgrades, the facility was renamed the Britannia Mining Museum in 2010, in time for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Today, the museum’s grounds contain 23 historic industrial, administrative and domestic buildings. The most notable of these is the massive Mill No.3 facility, which can be seen from the highway.

Inside, you’ll encounter over 7000 artifacts, 9500 archive photos and 3000 archival documents spread out across a variety of interactive exhibits . You can learn about the site’s history and the importance of mining in the modern era.

But most importantly, you can have some fun!

Enjoy a signature Canadian experience by burning through the tunnels in an underground train . Take a photo in front of an 800,000 lb giant haul truck . Or experience the thrilling new BOOM! sound and special effects experience .

Britannia Mine Museum Tickets

We’re thrilled to be able to offer you skip-the-line tickets via our partners at Tiqets. The package includes a guided tour deep under the mines, so you’ll be required to book a specific time. Be sure to show up at least 15 minutes prior to your tour.

The prices are as follows:

• Adults (19-64): $41.95
• Seniors (65+): $36.95
• Students (w/valid ID): $36.95
• Children (5-12): $23.95
• Toddlers (>5): Free

For more information and to purchase your Britannia Mine Museum tickets, click on the button below.

Tiqets is now offering a special ticket combo package that includes Britannia Mine Museum Tickets along with tickets to the Sea to Sky Gondola for the low price of $69.25. That’s good for a savings of 10% over purchasing the tickets individually.

Britannia Mine Museum Hours

The museum is open year-round, with guided underground tours offered at set intervals throughout the day. I’d recommend budgeting about 1.5-2 hours for your visit .

This will give you plenty of time to hit all the exhibits, take an underground tour and strike it rich at the Gold Panning Pavilion!

Operating Hours

• Monday-Friday: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Weekends/Holidays: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
• Chatterbox Café: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (5:00 pm weekends)
• Gift Shop: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (6:00 pm weekends)

Underground Tour Times

• Monday-Friday: 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm
• Weekends/Holidays: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (hourly)

*Tours are usually conducted on a first-come, first-serve basis – but if you book ahead, you’ll be required to make a reservation. Times are also subject to change in times of low attendance.

Britannia Mine Museum Location

The museum is located about 45 minutes North of Vancouver along the famed Sea to Sky Highway near the town of Squamish. On a clear Vancouver summer day, the picturesque drive is almost worth the price of admission alone.

You’ll experience breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains at almost every turn. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road!

The mine marks the halfway point in the journey from Vancouver to Whistler , so it’s a perfect way to break up the drive. Alternatively, if you’re doing a day trip, I also highly recommend hitting up the nearby Sea to Sky Gondola .

If you have a vehicle, then the easiest way to get to the Britannia Mine is to drive. Just be cognizant of the fact that traffic on the Lions Gate Bridge into North Vancouver can be miserable. So time your departure outside of peak hours if possible.

Once you’ve passed the village of Porteau Cove, you’ll be confronted with what will likely be the biggest truck you’ve ever seen! This behemoth will cue your arrival.

Then follow the signs and exit the highway on your right. There is plenty of free parking on-site.

For detailed directions from your luxury Vancouver hotel , head over to Google Maps .

The Squamish Connector

If you don’t have wheels, The Squamish Connector offers daily shuttle buses between Vancouver and Squamish for $32. It will stop at the mine by request.

Britannia Mine Museum Exhibits 

The Giant Haul Truck

The enormous Giant Haul Truck is the first thing that’ll catch your eye from the highway. Measuring over 20 feet tall and weighing in at over 800,000 lbs , this Wabco Ultra-class monster was specifically engineered to carry massive amounts of ore material in a mining environment.

However, it now serves as the museum’s most popular photo-op for visitors. So seize the opportunity and grab your family for that crucial snap for Instagram before you head inside.

Beaty Lundin Visitor Centre

Once you walk through the doors, your first stop will be the mine’s brand-new visitor centre. The room’s notable contrast with the historical buildings on site seeks to connect the mine’s past with the present.

Consequently, you’ll find a variety of films , touchscreen displays and interactive exhibits that seek to convey the importance of mining to our everyday lives in the information age.

Quick hint: your iPhone would still be but a distant dream.

The Britannia Story

The Britannia Story Exhibit outlines everyday life in the mine and the adjoining town of Britannia Beach. Here, you’ll find the bulk of the museum’s archival photos and documents .

As you walk inside the walls of a beautifully restored heritage building, you’ll learn about the lighter side of the Britannia Story. View pictures from the mine’s swimming pools and tennis courts and view the contestants from the annual Copper Queen Pageant.

Children are free to sit on the Queen’s throne for another photo-op and crawl into a child-friendly tunnel.

Historical Buildings and Artifacts

Once you’ve learned a little bit about the museum’s history, I recommend you take some time to wander around the site’s 10-acre grounds. Seventeen buildings remain from the mine’s heyday, and you can explore them all.

The most important structure is Mill No.3 , also known as the Concentrator . This iconic 20-storey building dominates the site on the Northwest side of Mt. Sheer. It has also appeared in Hollywood productions such as the X-files, MacGyver and Scooby-Doo 2.

The building contains an innovative inclined gravity mill that was constructed in 1923 after a fire damaged the previous units. As you explore the buildings, you’ll come across a variety of artifacts that document the lives of those who worked there for over 70 years.

The Mineral Gallery

In addition to Copper, the mine produced a whole host of minerals such as gold, silver, zinc, lead and cadmium. In the Mineral Gallery, you can get an up-close look at these and many other minerals of all shapes and sizes.

While gold is always popular, be sure to have a look at the stunning fluorescent minerals — including azurite and selenite. They aren’t just for show, though, so pay close attention to learn about the unique uses for each product.

The Underground: A Canadian Signature Experience

If you’d like to truly experience what it’s like to work in a copper mine, then here is your chance. This museum highlight allows visitors to board a small mine train in order to rumble through an old haulage tunnel 650 metres below the surface .

An underground tour will give you a quick taste of what it’s truly like to work far below ground where, as the saying goes, the sun don’t shine.

After a quick climb up around 50 steps, you’ll receive a hard hat and a quick safety briefing. You’re then free to board the small haulage train before heading deep into the tunnels. While it’s quite dark for much of the trip, you do eventually stop in a well-lit area where you’re free to explore the mine.

You may want to bring a light hoodie or sweater, as it can get quite cold once underground – even in the heart of summer.

BOOM! A Live-Action Experience

Britannia’s newest exhibit is a thrilling light, sound and special effects experience inside historic Mill No.3 . This national historic site is magically reawakened to its former glory via this new fully-interactive “Disney-like attraction.”

Video screens and a few dozen speakers combine to demonstrate the seat-rumbling roar of the giant machines that powered the most productive copper mine in the British empire.

Launched in the Summer of 2019, this informative and exciting adventure promises to be a hit with visitors of all ages.

The Gold Panning Pavilion

Surely, everyone has fantasized about striking it rich in a gold mine. Well, now you’ve got your chance!

Before you hit the road, you can embrace your inner prospector by panning for gold in the Gold Panning Pavilion.

And the best part is, whatever you find, you get to keep!

The mine’s panning troughs are set at a variety of heights, meaning visitors of all ages are free in their attempt to get gilded. Unfortunately, I came up empty. But you never know.

After all, almost 16 tons of gold were hauled out of these very hills during the mine’s lifetime.

Britannia Mine Museum Amenities

Britannia Beach was a fully functioning company town . This meant all amenities, including restaurants, recreational activities and shopping, had to be available on-site.

This approach continues at the museum, which contains a full range of amenities in order to amplify your visit.

• The Chatterbox Café: A café with an extensive selection of sandwiches, snacks, cold drinks and specialty coffees. Movie and TV buffs will enjoy the collection of autographed pictures from cast members of the numerous productions filmed on-site.
• The Company Store: A gift shop containing a wide variety of souvenirs and gift items, including t-shirts, books and toys that honour the mine’s history. You’ll also find artwork and souvenirs from the local Squamish First Nation.

Britannia Mine Museum FAQs

What is the britannia mine museum.

The Britannia Mine Museum is a national historic site located on the site of what was formerly the largest copper mine in the British Empire. The museum now hosts a variety of interactive exhibits, galleries and tours that serve to educate visitors on the history of mining in BC and its importance in the modern world.

Where is the Britannia Mine Museum Located?

The Britannia Mine Museum is located 55 kilometers North of Vancouver near the town of Squamish.

What are the Britannia Mine Museum Hours?

Britannia Mine Museum hours are currently from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. The last tours occur at 3:00 pm. And remember, check-in is 30 minutes before your tour.

How do you Purchase Britannia Mine Museum Tickets?

Tickets for the Britannia Mine Museum can be purchased online through their official website or in person at the museum’s ticket office upon arrival.

How do you get to the Britannia Mine Museum?

To get to the Britannia Mine Museum, drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) north from Vancouver. It’s approximately a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

How long is the Britannia Mine Museum?

Admission to the Britannia Mine Museum covers a guided underground tour, historical exhibits, gold panning, the film “Ground Breaking,” and the new attraction, BOOM! Plan 1.5-3 hours for your visit. See our website for details.

Is Britannia a museum now?

Yes, Britannia is a museum now that offers a curated underground tour, showcases historical exhibits, provides opportunities for gold panning, screens the film “Ground Breaking,” and introduces a new attraction, BOOM!

Still Looking to Visit the Britannia Mine Museum?

If there’s anything you think I overlooked, don’t hesitate to reach out to me through our Vancouver Planner Facebook page or in the comment section below.

We’re dedicated to assisting you with all your Vancouver-related travel needs. Additionally, we’re excited to support your exploration of the Britannia Mine Museum.

Best wishes for your gold-panning adventure!

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Britannia Mine Museum – What to do and see Whether a Daytrip or Sea-to-Sky Stop!

Nestled along the mountainside on the Sea to Sky highway between Vancouver and Whistler is the Britannia Mine Museum. This former copper mine is now one of Canada’s National Historic Sites and was once the largest copper mine in the British Empire.

The Britannia Mine Museum was established in 1974 and recently renovated. It provides visitors with a unique blend of experiences offering a soft adventure attraction and education venue that allows guests to leave with a better understanding of mining in BC; past, present, and future.

Just 10 minutes before you arrive in Squamish on the Sea to Sky highway, the Britannia Mine Museum towers above the seaside town of Britannia Beach, home to just 300 residents. However, in the 1930s over 60 000 people lived here, making a living from working in the copper mine.

Britannia Mine Museum Location

Address: 150 Copper Drive Britannia Beach, V8B 1J1

Brittania Mine Museum is approximately a 45-minute drive from Vancouver and a 10-minute drive from Squamish. It is right on the Sea to Sky Highway in Brittania Beach.

There is a gravel parking lot and parking is free.

Admission Rates for Britannia Mine Muesum

The Britannia Mine Museum is open 7 days a week. Their hours change depending on the season but in the high season it is open from 9:00 – 6:30

1 Day Admission (2023)

Adults $39.95

Youth (13-17) $30.95

Child (5-12) $21.95

4 and Under FREE

Seniors (65+) $35.95

Students with current school ID $35.95

Family Rate (2 adults and up to three children/youth) $140.00

Annual Memberships:

Adults $98.00

Youth (13-17) $70.00

Child (5-12) $70.00

Seniors (65+) $75.00

Students with current school ID $75.00

Family Rate (2 adults and up to three children/youth) $210.00

How to book tickets?

To confirm your date and time, book tickets in advance online. You can book Here .

Whether you love history or are looking for a kid-friendly activity there is something for everyone to see at the Britannia Mine Museum. I went in with no expectations and thoroughly enjoyed myself. The boys loved the underground tour and BOOM! They panned for gold for almost an hour before I made them leave because the mine was closing. The Gift shop at the Brittania Mine Museum is a hidden game for shopping for Canadian souvenirs. Their prices are much cheaper than what you will find when shopping in Vancouver and Whistler .

Things to Do and See at Britannia Mine Museum

Underground tour and boom experience.

A memorable underground train that takes visitors inside a dark mining tunnel where they will experience what life was like for miners in the 70 years Britannia existed as a mine. This guided tour shows guests the drills and machines the miners used over time and what it was like to work deep underground. The tour explains the mineralization process and rich colors produced as minerals are exposed to water and air. It also talks about the negative consequences of mining and what is being done to protect the environment even now, as minerals flow out of the mountains.

BOOM! the newest experience at Britannia Mine Museum offers a multi-sensory experience that brings the historic Mill building back to life. Visitors will be transported back in time by the 12-minute theatrical spectacle that showcases the 20-story architectural marvel that was once a beacon to the community. It really does a great job at showcasing what the working mine would have been like.

Britannia Mine’s Mill #3

A National Historic Site and one of the last remaining gravity-fed concentrator mills in North America, the 20-story Mill Building is an awe-inspiring cliff-side building that has been the symbol of Britannia throughout the years. Whether driving towards Vancouver or Whistler on the Sea to Sky Britannia’s Mill #3 could not be missed! Restored in 2007, each of the 14,416 panes of glass was hand puttied into the frames to maintain its heritage. The BOOM experience takes place in Mill #3 after the underground part of the tour at Britannia Mine.

Gold Panning Pavillion

A scenic boardwalk and cedar-post-covered area where guests of all ages can spend hours panning for real gold. Among the gold flecks are gemstones that delight both young and old as they work on their panning technique. If you have children, expect to spend some time here and bring them a change of clothes as a lot of water ends up on them, not just in the troughs.

Beaty-Lundin Visitor Centre

The central exhibit hall houses several theatrical mining displays and a mineral gallery, theatre space, gift shop, an interactive kids area, and the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame.

A-Z Administration Building

A fully restored heritage building that is now an exhibition centre to showcase the stories of the Britannia Beach community from 1904 to 1974. It includes artifacts including love letters and antiques. It also has historic photos and videos of former Copper Queens. The exhibits show what life was like in the old mining town that was cut off from others for so many years.

Britannia Mine Machine Shop

The 1908 Machine Shop is home to a number of historic machines and equipment donated by mining companies from across the country. The building also features several unique art exhibits.

Family Play Area

All ages can play in the mining-themed play area where they can have fun in a Super Haul truck and imagine themselves as miners using toy diggers, trucks, and hoppers.

While walking from the underground tunnel towards Mill#3 keep an eye out for the core sheds. They hold an immense archive of rock core samples drilled from the mountainside and collected throughout Britannia’s mining years.

EPCOR Britannia Mine Water Treatment Plant

Britannia Mines had a negative environmental impact on Howe Sound due to acid rock drainage, which occurs naturally when rainwater reacts with oxygen and exposed minerals. Today, the water treatment plant uses natural materials to filter minerals and neutralize surface water runoff collected from the area, ensuring that only clean water flows into Howe Sound. This project has allowed the revitalization of plants and animals in the waterways.

The Gift shop at the Brittania Mine Museum is a hidden game for shopping for Canadian souvenirs. Their prices are much cheaper than what you will find when shopping in Vancouver and Whistler . If you have ever wanted a gold pan, you can also pick up one of those at the gift shop for less than $10. Perfect for camping and keeping the kids busy! Shopping at the gift shop helps fund this non-profit site. You can even visit the gift shop if you are not visiting the mine. It is the perfect stop along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to pick up some gifts and souvenirs!

Tips for Visiting

If you are visiting with young children, there are loud noises on the tour. Bring yourself ear plugs if you are going to have to cover your children’s ears. (Although I found my kids were good at covering their own ears.)

Bring a sweater. It is cold in the mine. Even in summer, it is very wet and damp inside.

Animals are not allowed (except service dogs). If you are traveling with your pets in the summertime, you should skip Britannia. Do not leave them in the car.

Give yourself time for the gift shop! There are some great treasures to be found. If you have ever wanted a gold panning pan, you can grab one at the Britannia Mine gift shop.

Britannia Mine FAQ

Britannia Mine closed in 1974 because it was no longer making a profit in the copper industry.

Britannia Mine produced copper (650,000 tons), zinc (137,000 tons), lead (17,000 tons), cadmium (500 tons), silver (188 tons), gold (15.6 tons/500,000 ounces) from the Ore in the mountains.

If you are visiting Vancouver and do not have a car, there are options to visit the Britannia mine. Here is a private vehicle tour that will stop at the mine and allow visitors to visit. Note that the price of this tour does not include the price of admission to the mine. Expect an additional $40 to visit the museum and the copper mine tour (including BOOM, the multi sensory experience). This tour also includes a trip to Shannon falls and optional stops at the Sea to Sky Gondola as well as the Railway museum in Squamish. Here is another private day tour that includes admission to the mine, as well as the Sea to Sky Gondola. It also includes a tip and lunch (make sure you read all of the inclusions so you are not surprised)

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

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Britannia Mine Museum

• 604.896.2233

Britannia Mine Museum Rocks! This 10-acre Award-winning Museum And National Historic Site Is Full Of Fun For The Entire Family

Last century, Britannia Mine was the largest copper mine in the British Empire. Today, it's a multi-award-winning Museum, turning out awe-inspiring sights and memorable family experiences. Rumble aboard the mine train as it rolls into the dark, learn from informative but informal tour guides and pan for real gold! 

Located in beautiful Britannia Beach just 10 minutes south of Squamish, this 10-acre award-winning museum and National Historic Site is full of all-ages fun. Come for a visit and see why this National Historic Site is rated 4 1/2 stars on Trip Advisor.

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Coal Mine Tours | Sparwood, British Columbia

Britannia Mine Museum  

ADMISSION TO THE MUSEUM IS TIMED – PLEASE CONTACT BRITANNIA MINE MUSUEM DIRECTLY TO BOOK YOUR PREFERED TOUR DEPARTURE TIME. BOTH YOUR VANCOUVER ATTRACTIONS TICKET, AND YOUR CONFIRMATION FROM BRITANNIA MINE MUSEUM WILL BE NEEDED TO GAIN ADMISSION.

Contact Britannia Mine Museum at 1.800.896.4044 or [email protected]

Rumble aboard The Underground train as it rolls through an historic mining tunnel. Push up your sleeves at our Gold Panning Pavilion and keep what you find! Immerse yourself in the award-winning, multi-sensory experience of BOOM! on the breathtaking ground level of the historic Mill No.3 building. Learn about minerals, the copper extraction process and what life was like back in the day as the mill building is brought back to life.

Britannia Mine Museum opens up a little-seen world that fascinates all ages, offering awe-inspiring sights and memorable family experiences. Take a step back in time at this award-winning attraction and National Historic Site. Located along the scenic Sea to Sky corridor/Hwy99 between Squamish and Vancouver. See you soon!  

BUY TICKETS NOW

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled entry time to allow time to check-in and make your way to the underground tour departure location. 

Visit our website:  britanniaminemuseum.ca

 You might also like to visit: 

From Vancouver, take the Trans-Canada Hwy #1 to Horseshoe Bay and then veer onto Hwy 99, the beautiful Sea-to-Sky Highway.

Coming from Whistler? Head south on Hwy 99. We’re about 10 minutes south of Squamish.

Plenty of free parking available onsite.

For more transportation options, visit our website:  britanniaminemuseum.ca 

Hours and Dates of Operation

Check Britannia Mine Museum website  for seasonal changes and on site features.

Museum:  9:00am - 6:30pm

Gift Shop: 9:00am - 5:00pm

Cafe: 7:00am - 4:30pm

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled entry time.  

Accessibility

Click here for complete information

Phone: 1.604.896.2233 - press 0 Website: britanniaminemuseum.ca Email: [email protected] Address: PO Box 188, Britannia Beach, BC V0N 1J0

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All aboard the underground train: Panning for gold at Vancouver’s Britannia Mine Museum

Guided tours and multi-sensory attractions transport visitors back in time at what was once the largest copper mine in the British Empire

By Kathryn Anderson & Roadtrippers

After an incredibly scenic 45-minute drive north of Vancouver, the Britannia Mine Museum is impossible to miss. Located just off of British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky Highway on Squamish First Nations land, the massive white structure juts out from the side of the mountain and commands attention. 

The Britannia Mine was a functioning mine from 1904 until 1974. Ore was first discovered here in 1888 by Alexander Forbes, who happened upon a patch of mineralized rock while out hunting. At one point, more than 60,000 people lived nearby and worked in what was once the largest copper mine in the former British Empire. Over seven decades, workers extracted more than 50 million tons of ore that produced copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, silver, and gold. Today—despite floods, fires, and rock slides—a statue of a man opening the mountain to find copper memorializes the great fortunes that the mine provided for the town of Britannia. 

In 2010, the mine underwent a massive renovation, opening as the Britannia Mine Museum. Visitors can pan for gold and gemstones, ride an underground train into an early haulage tunnel, learn about the history of the mine, and experience a new multi-sensory, live-action attraction entitled BOOM! 

“We’re here to challenge the idea that museum tours have to be dry or boring,” says museum educator Derek A. Jang. “It’s always a pleasure watching people’s faces when they head underground or see the BOOM! show. Even through their [face] masks, I can tell when we’ve blown away their expectations.” 

Underground train 

My tour begins inside of the large white structure named Mill 3. There’s a chill in the air and my first thought is that the raw, exposed walls and pipes would make a great backdrop for a horror movie or underground nightclub. I’m not far off: The mine has been used as a filming location for countless television shows and movies, including The X-Files and Supernatural .

After exiting the Mill, I venture into The Chatterbox Café to warm up with a cappuccino. The walls of the cafe are filled with photos of the long list of actors who have filmed projects at the mine, including Richard Gere, David Hasselhoff, Alicia Silverstone, and Ashley Judd. 

The coffee warms me up just in time to head into another cool, dark, and damp environment. I place a hard hat on my head, preparing to be transported back to the early 1900s when miners would hop on a similar train car and head into the mine for a hard day’s work. As I step into the bright yellow car, I’m thankful that I’m not claustrophobic. We descend into an early haulage tunnel that appears to be closing in around us. 

Marianna Hammerstrom, the museum’s historic interpreter and our train conductor, shouts over the roar of the train’s engine: “Arms and legs inside at all times!”   

As the train enters the underground tunnels, Jang says, “A lot of our guides would say the best part of working here is operating the machinery. I wish I could go back in time and tell my 5-year-old self that I’ll be a train conductor when I grow up.”  

Once inside a tunnel, we ride along for a few moments before hopping out to watch staff demonstrate how miners drilled for ore. I witness the evolution of mining equipment from a basic hammer and chisel to a large power drill that noisily chips away at the tunnel wall; thankfully earplugs are provided.  

Miners worked by candlelight before switching to carbide lamps, and one of my favorite parts of the underground train ride comes when a staff member shuts off the modern electric lights and lights a small candle; the mine glows eerily. 

We exit the tunnel and I have the honor of upholding the long-standing tradition of pulling a rope and sounding an alarm. While the mine was in operation, the sound signified that the miners were finished for the day and everyone had exited safely, bringing relief to everyone in town. 

Loud noises

Speaking of loud sounds, the newest attraction at the mine is BOOM!, which brings visitors back to the days when all 20 stories of the mine were bustling. During the video presentation, I’m able to experience what the mine looked and sounded like during its heyday. Sparks fly, lights flash, and I hear the deafening roar of the machines that were once ubiquitous in the town of Britannia. 

Our tour concludes and we exit through the Beaty Lundin Visitor Centre. More than just a kitschy souvenir shop, the visitor center includes interactive displays, artifacts from the mine’s history, and exhibits such as the Mining Hall of Fame.

In the Gold Panning Pavilion, I gladly accept a blue pan and plunge it into a pool of warm water. I scoop sand and water into my pan and shake it, searching for gold. I repeat this several times but find only sand—it’s not my lucky day, but I have fun anyway. 

While walk-ins are allowed at Britannia Mine Museum , it’s highly recommended to book your tickets in advance. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

Meet the Authors

Kathryn Anderson

Kathryn is a freelance health, wellness, and travel writer whose mission is to inspire people to explore the world. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, she enjoys exploring both locally and abroad and has visited 21 countries on 5 continents (so far).

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Coal Mine Tours

Elk Valley Mine Tours

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Tours

Elkview Operations

July & August

Bus departs from the Sparwood Chamber of Commerce (next to big truck) at 1:00 pm. Call 250-425-2423 to reserve a seat.

Adults $15.00, Senior/ Youth $12.00. Children under 5 are free.

Did you know the Elk Valley produces 80% of Canada’s steelmaking coal?

Find out more on the bus tour of our open-pit coal mine;  See heavy machinery at work, Learn how mined land is reclaimed to promote native ecosystems, Try to spot the herds of elk, deer, and bighorn sheep that live on site, Discover the steps Teck is taking to protect and maintain water quality.

Discover more about what makes our community “yours and mine”!

The Sparwood Chamber of Commerce conducts interpretive coal mine tours in the months of July and August.

Call 250.425.2423 for more information or a reservation. The tours are popular and book quickly, and reservations are highly recommended.

Learn about the efficiency of 21st century coal mining with a tour of one of Canada’s largest open pit mines. Preregister at the Visitor Information Centre by the giant dump truck. Note that closed-toe shoes are required. Explore the history of underground coal mining with the aid of the Sparwood Mining History Walking Tour, also starting at the Visitor Information Centre. Antique mining machinery is displayed all over town, while larger-than-life murals portray the human side of the story.

The sight of this colossal truck has been known to silence even the most chatter prone two-year olds, and occasionally even their parents. There’s nothing like it!

This truck has to be seen in real life in order to be believed. Built by General Motors of Canada, the 1974 Terex Titan – all 350 tonnes, 66 feet and 3,300 horsepower of it – lives in Sparwood. Two Greyhound buses and 2 pickups can fit into the box, all at once!

Things you should know about the Truck:

• Height = 6.88m (22’7”)
• Height with Box Raised = 17.07m (56’)
• Length = 20.09m (65’11”)
• Width = 7.57m (24’10”)
• Weight = 260 tonnes
• Payload = 350 tonnes

Located in the heart of some of the most beautiful scenery in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Sparwood offers a number of events throughout the year to charm both residents and visitors alike. Get to know Sparwood and join us for some of our gatherings and events throughout the year, you won’t be disappointed!

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Home > Directory > Guided Tours > Mascot Gold Mine Tours

Mascot Gold Mine Tours

Temporarily Closed

The new MascotMine website is coming soon.

The historic Mascot Mine is currently closed  while construction work is underway.

For safety reasons public  access is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

Please be aware that rock scaling, helicopter operations, and other hazardous activities are currently taking place at site and will continue throughout the autumn of 2023.

Please DO NOT attempt to enter the historic Mascot Mine at this time.

New information will be posted on this website as it becomes available.

Official visitor website for the Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, Canada including Cathedral Lakes, Cawston, Chopaka, Coalmont, Eastgate, Hedley, Keremeos, Manning Park, Olalla, Princeton, Similkameen Valley, Tulameen and Twin Lakes.

To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behaviour or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

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Visit the Museum

Site & exhibits.

Britannia offers visitors plenty of things to see and do. From guided underground tours to self-led exploration of the social history of Britannia Beach. The 10-acre site is itself an exhibit providing unique access to an important piece of Canadian history.

The Underground Tour

Board our mine train and rumble inside an early haulage tunnel. An extraordinary opportunity to see what life was like at one of the largest copper mines in the world. We’re proud to offer guests access to this Canadian Signature Experience.

BOOM! A Multi-Sensory Experience

Discover a thrilling light, sound and special effects experience inside the historic Mill No 3. BOOM! brings all 20-storeys back to life, sharing the Mill's captivating story and its thunderous roar.

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© 2024 Britannia Mine Museum

BC Conservatives 'laser-focused' on mining as potential multi-billion revenue source

At a campaign stop in the Interior, the leader of the BC Conservatives heavily promoted the mining industry, pledging reforms he believes would unlock billions of dollars in annual government revenue.

John Rustad told reporters that he plans to fast-track approvals for 16 mines in the application process, unlocking up to $11 billion that would flow into government coffers, with a purported $22 billion in wages and benefits annually. He did not cite a source for those figures.

The current provincial deficit is estimated at $9 billion.

“We need the revenue, we need to be able to make sure we can pay for additional tax relief, we need to ensure we can pay for things like health-care improvements and how we’ll tackle crime and addictions and build that out,” Rustad said. “That means we have to be laser-focused on getting mining open in our province.”

He promised to slash approval times from the current 12- to 15-year process and make it easier to do business in the province overall, while reiterating his “Rustad rebate” tax relief.

“These are the things we need to be focused on,” said Rustad. "David Eby has failed dramatically, his weak leadership has led to nothing but delays and problems and people wanting to leave this province."

BC NDP make their own mining announcement

While campaigning in Terrace, BC NDP Leader David Eby outlined a three-point plan to expand on what he called his government’s progress in supporting the mining industry.

He committed to guaranteed permit review timelines to help the industry better plan projects, directing the civil service to treat each mine as requiring a single approval process rather than multiple, and to work with related unions to ensure safety training is up to industry standard.

“I’m really proud of the work we’ve done on the mining file,” Eby told supporters at his second stop of the day.

He cited statistics to support that statement, including a workforce that’s grown by 10 per cent, double the mineral production, and an increase in produced values of 70 per cent, since the NDP formed government in 2017.

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• Resources & Agriculture

B.C. Conservatives vow to bolster mining, exploration

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A Conservative government would reverse cabinet orders that have curbed certain mineral exploration activities in B.C. and conduct a review of mining regulations and taxes with the view of streamlining permitting and implementing a competitive tax structure.

The Conservative Party of B.C. today released its platform on mining. It pledges to “simplify permitting, cut redundant regulations, invest in rural infrastructure, and foster strong Indigenous partnerships for economic reconciliation.”

The platform notes that there are 16 critical mineral mine projects proposed for B.C.

“Together, they would inject $80 billion into the economy, create paycheques worth $22 billion, generate $11 billion in provincial tax revenues – more than the entire NDP deficit," the party says in a news release. "These mines remain in limbo, waiting for approval from one of the longest permitting processes in the world.

“It takes a shocking 12-15 years to secure approval for a mine in B.C., compared to 2-3 years in Australia, 5 years in in Chile, and under 2 years in Sweden.”

The Conservative mining platform pledges a review of B.C.’s mining regulations and the removal of “unnecessary or duplicative requirements that do not meaningfully contribute to safety or environmental protection.”

It also pledges to review B.C.’s tax competitiveness.

The Conservatives are promising to reverse orders in cabinet that made “certain areas” of B.C. off limits to mineral exploration.

As BIV reported in March, the B.C. government resorted to a rarely used mechanism under the Environment and Land Use Act to put   all mining and mineral exploration and permitting activity on hold in two specific areas of B.C. -- Banks Island and a portion of Vancouver Island that is traditional territory to the Ehattesaht First Nation.

The moratorium was described a temporary measure by the government and was intended to put exploration activities on hold until the Mineral Tenure Act could be amended to address concerns First Nations have over mineral claims being filed in their traditional territories without their knowledge or consent.

According to the orders in council, the moratoria on all mining activities would be for five years for new mining leases and new permits, and indefinite for new mineral or placer claims without agreement of the respective First Nations.

The Association of Mineral exploration (AME) raised concerns about the moratoria, and recommended that prospectors and mineral exploration companies with claims or permits in the affected areas be compensated.

“Mining begins with exploration, which itself supports thousands of professional jobs,” the Conservatives say in a press release. “We will reverse the NDP’s unprecedented March 2024 cabinet orders which make exploration effectively impossible in certain areas of B.C.”

The Conservatives are also committing to addressing infrastructure deficits that may be barriers to mine development, and are promising to “identify gaps in rural B.C.’s public infrastructure and make targeted investments that unlock opportunity.”

The Conservatives also pledge to “strengthen indigenous partnerships,” and ensure that taxpayers are not left on the hook for remediation when a mine shuts down or is shut down.

“We will design tougher and smarter protections to ensure that those who build mines are truly responsible for all remediation costs at closure – not taxpayers," the party says.

The Association of Mineral Exploration (AME) responded favourably to some of the pledges being made by the Conservatives.

“I'm happy to see the announcement today emphasizes the importance of exploration in developing the mines of the future, as well as the importance of greenfield exploration which is essential for the critical mineral future,” AME executive director Keerit Jutla.  

“Expediting mine permitting and ensuring that land use planning is conducted publicly is a positive step for investment in our province and gives explorers the certainty, transparency and fairness they are seeking.”

Following today's release of the Conservative Party's platform on mining, the NDP also released their platform on mining .

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