Gem Mining off the Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway, sometimes called "America's Favorite Drive", is the most visited parkway of America's National Park System. A drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway provides stunning, long range vistas and close-up looks at the natural and cultural history of the southern Appalachian Mountains. Due to the railroad and visitors to the Blue Ridge Many mountain towns flourished from mining emerald, feldspar, mica, and precious gemstones. Gem mining has become a big attraction and can be found throughout the numerous towns along and adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway. This activity can be fun for the entire family as there is no age limit to gem mining.

North Carolina Mineral Museum Blue Ridge Parkway North Carolina Museum of Minerals in Spruce Pine off exit 331 on the Blue Ridge Parkway

North Carolina Mineral Museum
Recently renovated, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals introduces the treasures found in the Spruce Pine Mining District through interactive displays on the wide variety of minerals and gems found in the region. Located at milepost 331 on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, the Museum provides an introduction to the importance of mining in the region and the mineral and gem wealth found here. Work is continuing on new interactive displays that will take you deep inside a mountain to see how gems and minerals are formed.

The Museum also hosts a visitor center for the Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce, where you can pick up information on local businesses, attractions, lodging, food and more. A gift shop featuring souvenirs and books on Western North Carolina is also located in the museum.