Around 1860, prospectors came to Idaho to find gold in the Boise Basin, setting off one of the largest East-to-West migrations in America. U.S. Air Force Veteran Sgt. Chris Christman was inspired to buy his claim in Idaho and connected with Gold Rush star Dave Turin, who has family in the area. Idaho Today host Mellisa Paul joined them on a field trip to showcase the premise of Dave’s Discovery series, “America’s Backyard Gold.”
Idaho’s Rich Mining History
Idaho has a rich history of gold and silver mining, with stories of violence and drama retold in historical programs like INSP Network’s Wild West Chronicles. Despite the eroding mountain ranges in the state, the veins of gold continue to shed minerals and metals into the rivers, creeks, and streams of Idaho.
Dave Turin’s Legacy in Mining
Dave Turin, known for his appearances on Gold Rush and Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine, has been revitalizing old mining operations across the country. His latest series on Discovery Channel, “America’s Backyard Gold,” focuses on teaching people about prospecting on lands with untapped gold reserves. In Idaho, Turin shared his expertise with locals to help them uncover the best prospecting sites in the area.
Where to Find Gold in Idaho
Turin highlights that there are millions of unclaimed gold deposits at the bottom of lakes, creeks, and rivers in Idaho. Areas like the Boise Basin are known for their gold deposits, making them prime locations for prospecting. Resources like the Gold Prospectors Association of America can guide enthusiasts to promising spots along riverbanks and public lands for panning.
Essential Gear for Gold Panning
For a successful prospecting trip in Idaho, beginners should equip themselves with quality UV eye protection, waterproof boots, a proper prospecting pan with ridges, a shovel, tweezers, a magnet, and other essential items. It is important to pack out all trash and leave the environment as you found it after prospecting.
Unlikely Spots for Gold Collection
After the snow melts and the river flows, look for water lines, grass roots near riverbanks, and black sand as indicators of potential gold deposits. Rock and gravel formations near bends in rivers or creeks are also promising spots for finding gold.
As the allure of gold prospecting continues to attract enthusiasts to Idaho, the legacy of Gold Rush and the expertise of individuals like Dave Turin contribute to the thriving mining culture in the state.
