Bachelor-Syracuse Mine Tour — Ouray, Colorado

Discover the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine Tour in Colorado

Travel deep into the San Juan Mountains and explore the legendary Bachelor-Syracuse Mine in Ouray, one of the most scenic and historic mining sites in the Rocky Mountains. This authentic, underground tour takes visitors along original mining tunnels, stopping at real drilling stations, ore veins, and historic equipment used by hard-rock miners over a century ago.
Why it’s special:
It’s one of the few Colorado mines where visitors can ride deep into the mountain on a mine tram, making the experience both immersive and accessible.

History/Story of the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine

Mining began here in the late 1800s when prospectors struck rich veins of silver, gold, lead, and zinc. The Bachelor and Syracuse claims later merged, forming one of Ouray’s most productive mining operations. The tunnels extend over a mile into Gold Hill and were worked by generations of miners before modern operations ended. Today, the mine stands as a preserved landmark of San Juan mining culture, geology, and engineering.

What You’ll See & Do at the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine

• Ride a mine tram deep into the mountain along historic tunnels

• See original drilling sites, ore chutes, blasting holes, and support timbers

• Learn how miners used candles, dynamite, and compressed-air drills

• Explore mineral veins in the rock and identify silver and gold-bearing quartz

• Hear stories about Ouray’s boomtown era, mining life, and mountain geology

• Visit outdoor displays of ore carts, machines, and mining relics

• Enjoy the stunning mountain setting at the base of Gold Hill

Hands-On Elements: Touch ore samples, handle old tools, view mineral displays, practice panning (on select days).
Photo/Video Policy: Photos welcome underground; avoid bright flash near the tram operator.
Souvenirs & Extras: Ore specimens, gemstones, gold panning kits, shirts, hats, and mining-themed gifts.

Pricing of the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine Tour

• Adults: $20

• Children (ages 5–12): $10

• Children under 5: Free

• Gold Panning Add-On: Prices vary (typically $5–$10)

• Group tours available by reservation

Practical Info for Visiting the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine

Duration: 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided mine-tram ride + underground walking
Schedule & Seasonality: Open late May–late September
Working Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Audience: Families, geology fans, history lovers, summer tourists
Accessibility: Tunnels have uneven floors; tram accessible for most visitors
Safety & Restrictions:

• Closed-toe shoes recommended

• Jackets advised (underground temp around 50°F)

• Hard hats provided

• Children must stay with adults
  Languages: English
  Group Visits: Great for school and scouting groups
  What to Bring/Wear: Jacket, sturdy shoes, camera
  Facilities: Gift shop, restrooms, outdoor seating, parking
  Closures & Downtime: Closed in winter due to snow and safety conditions

Nearby

• Ouray Hot Springs Pool

• Box Canyon Waterfall & Park

• Yankee Boy Basin

• Downtown Ouray shops & cafés

FAQs About Visiting the Bachelor-Syracuse Mine

How far into the mountain do we go?
The tram takes visitors deep into the historic workings—up to several hundred feet underground.

Is the mine cold?
Yes—temperatures hover around 50°F, so bring a jacket even on hot days.

Can kids go on the tram?
Yes—the tour is family-friendly, and children often love the tram and underground rooms.

Will I see real mineral veins?
Absolutely—silver, gold, quartz, galena, and other minerals are visible in the tunnel walls.

Do I have to walk a lot?
There is moderate walking on uneven ground, but much of the experience is tram-assisted.