Gold Dredge #8
This National Engineering Landmark in Goldstream Valley - described as a floating workhorse or a mechanical gold pan – is an absolute must-see while visiting Fairbanks. Over a 30 year period, the mammoth dredge extracted millions of ounces of gold from the frozen Alaskan ground. Today, Gold Dredge 8 National Historic District serves as a monument to the hard-working miners who built Fairbanks. You’re certain to strike it rich on this popular and informative two-hour tour, replete with live fiddle tunes and engaging narration as you join the Binkley family for a fascinating trip through gold mining history beginning with an introduction to the vital Trans Alaska Pipeline.
As you ride the Tanana Valley rails to Dredge 8, you can’t help but feel a certain kinship with the prospectors of the Gold Rush. You’ll learn how the dredge worked the gold fields, see a sluice box demonstration and enjoy a brief but informative course on gold panning. Once the train pulls into camp, you’ll get to do a little panning yourself, finding gold is guaranteed! Treat yourself to some complimentary coffee and fresh-baked cookies in the mercantile, then get out and explore dredge camp while your loot is weighed. For a perfect souvenir of your panning experience, have your precious gold sealed inside a locket for safe keeping and wearing close to your heart, right next to the mother lode of memories you’ll make on your trek to the Last Frontier!
