Peshastin Creek / Swauk Mining District Gold Panning
Approximate — check official site before visiting
The Peshastin Creek drainage sits within the Swauk Mining District, one of Washington's historically productive gold areas. Pleistocene glacial and fluvial activity concentrated fine placer gold in creek gravels. Work the inside bends of the creek where current velocity drops. Gold is fine flour to small flake size. Accessible from Highway 97 near Blewett Pass. Best after spring runoff subsides.
🪨 What You Can Find Here
Placer Gold
Also found at:
- No other locations listed yet
Garnets
Deep red almandine garnets are found in many states. Idaho's star garnets are among the rarest in the world.
Also found at:
Magnetite
Black iron oxide mineral with natural magnetism. New York's Adirondack region and other iron districts produce magnetite specimens.
Also found at:
📍 Nearby Locations in Washington
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⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Peshastin Creek / Swauk Mining District Gold Panning with the right equipment.
Rock Hammer
The most essential rockhounding tool. Choose a hammer with both a flat striking face and a pointed pick end.
Typical: $25-45
Safety Glasses
Mandatory protective gear. Rock chips fly unpredictably when hammering.
Typical: $10-20
Chisel Set
Cold chisels in 3-4 sizes for precise extraction from matrix rock.
Typical: $15-30
Geologist's Pick
A heavier crack hammer for splitting hard rock. Essential for hard rock mining areas.
Typical: $35-60
Sifting Screen
Stackable mesh screens for sifting gravel and dirt. Essential for gem and fossil hunting.
Typical: $20-40
UV Flashlight
Long-wave UV light for finding fluorescent minerals and Yooperlites.
Typical: $15-35