Coyote Creek Mine Tour — Zap, North Dakota

Discover the Coyote Creek Mine Tour in North Dakota

Located near Zap, North Dakota, the Coyote Creek Mine Tour offers visitors an inside look at a modern lignite coal mining operation in the heart of the state’s energy corridor. This guided industrial tour explains how surface mining extracts lignite coal used to generate electricity at nearby power plants serving the northern plains.

Visitors learn about large-scale mining equipment, coal transportation systems, and the process that moves lignite from the ground to regional power generation facilities.

Why it’s special: Coyote Creek Mine is one of the newest large-scale lignite coal mining operations in North Dakota and supplies fuel to the adjacent Coyote Station power plant.

History & Story of Coyote Creek Mine

Coyote Creek Mine began operations in the mid-2010s to supply lignite coal to the nearby Coyote Station power plant. The mine was developed to support North Dakota’s long-standing energy industry and provide a stable domestic fuel source for electricity generation.

Operated by North American Coal, the mine continues the region’s tradition of surface lignite mining while implementing modern safety standards and land reclamation programs.

What You’ll See & Do on the Coyote Creek Mine Tour

• Learn how lignite coal is extracted using modern surface mining techniques
• Observe large draglines, haul trucks, and earthmoving equipment
• Discover how coal is transported to nearby power plants
• Learn about land reclamation and environmental restoration efforts
• Explore educational exhibits explaining North Dakota’s coal industry
• View the scale of open-pit mining operations across the landscape

Hands-On Elements: Educational presentations explaining mining equipment and surface mining processes.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography may be restricted in certain operational areas for safety and security reasons.

Souvenirs & Extras: Informational materials about lignite mining and regional energy production available for visitors.

Pricing of the Coyote Creek Mine Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Tours typically require advance reservations.

Visiting information for Coyote Creek Mine Tour

Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome; safety guidelines must be followed

Accessibility: Outdoor industrial environment with uneven terrain

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed

Advance booking required for tours.

Nearby attractions to Coyote Creek Mine Tour

• Coyote Station Power Plant
• Lake Sakakawea State Park
• Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

FAQs About Visiting the Coyote Creek Mine Tour

What type of coal is mined at Coyote Creek Mine?
The mine produces lignite coal, which is commonly used for electricity generation in North Dakota.

Where does the coal from the mine go?
Most of the coal is delivered to the nearby Coyote Station power plant for electricity production.

Is the mine still active?
Yes. Coyote Creek Mine is an active surface mining operation.

Do visitors need reservations for the tour?
Yes. Tours must be scheduled in advance due to safety and operational requirements.

Who operates Coyote Creek Mine?
The mine is operated by North American Coal, a major producer of lignite coal in the region.