Guided Tour of World’s Largest Copper Mine from Salt Lake City

Imagine standing at the edge of the largest man-made hole on Earth, feeling the scale of human engineering firsthand. For about four hours, including a scenic drive and the tour itself, this experience takes you to Bingham Canyon Open Pit Copper Mine—a colossal sight that will leave you in awe. The tour costs $159 per person and includes round-trip transportation from Salt Lake City, making it a hassle-free way to see a true marvel of industrial achievement.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic mountain views with informative commentary—your guide, like the one praised in reviews, brings the site to life with engaging facts about the mine’s evolution and operation. Plus, the family-friendly nature of the experience makes it accessible for travelers of all ages. However, one thing to keep in mind is that mine cancellations due to unforeseen incidents or weather can disrupt plans, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits anyone curious about industrial engineering, natural landscapes, or simply wanting to tick off a major bucket-list sight. If you’re interested in learning about mining technology or enjoying a spectacular outdoor vista, this is a solid choice. Travelers who appreciate guided commentary and small group intimacy—with a maximum of 13 participants—will find it particularly rewarding.

• Impressive Scale: See the world’s largest man-made excavation, a spectacle of human effort and engineering.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Steve offer engaging, fact-filled commentary that enhances the experience.
• Beautiful Drive: The scenic route through the Rocky Mountains adds a memorable visual component.
• Family Friendly: The tour’s content and duration are suitable for all ages.
• Good Value: Including admission and transportation, the price offers a practical way to access this unique site.
• Weather and Incidents: Be prepared for potential cancellations due to weather or operational issues at the mine.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown, a convenient location near public transit options. From here, you’ll board a comfortable bus, with a maximum group size of 13—small enough to keep the atmosphere intimate but large enough for lively conversation. The drive lasts roughly an hour and a half, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic views of the Rocky Mountains. The highlight? Watching the landscape change from urban to rugged wilderness, all while learning snippets of local history from your guide.

What to Expect on the Drive

Your guide, much like the enthusiastic reviewer who called their guide “excellent,” will narrate details about the mine’s history and significance. We appreciated how the guides manage to keep things engaging without overwhelming, sharing tidbits about the mine’s size, the copper extraction process, and how the site has evolved over time. The drive also offers plenty of opportunities for photos—especially the sweeping mountain vistas and the sprawling open pit.

Visiting Bingham Canyon Open Pit Copper Mine

The core of the tour is the 1 hour 30-minute visit at the mine itself, where you’ll see the largest excavated hole on Earth—a staggering three miles wide and nearly one mile deep. This site isn’t just big; it’s a symbol of American industry and innovation. Your admission includes access to designated viewing areas where you can get a sense of the sheer scale and complexity of the operation.

The mine is operational, which means the experience can vary depending on current mining activities or incidents. For example, a recent review noted a cancellation due to an “incident,” illustrating that sometimes plans change unexpectedly. That said, the tour operator’s communication efforts are generally appreciated, and they strive to keep guests informed.

Authentic Insights from Guides

Many travelers mentioned the guides’ knowledgeable and personable approach. One praised their ability to share interesting facts about the mine’s evolution and workings. Others appreciated how the guides connected the site’s industrial significance to broader themes like geology and resource management. The quality of the commentary truly enhances the value of the tour, transforming what could be a simple sightseeing stop into an educational experience.

The Viewing Experience

The viewing platform offers breathtaking vistas of the mine’s enormous scale. As one reviewer puts it, “seeing it in person leaves a lasting impression.” You’ll want to bring your camera for Instagram-worthy shots of the pit’s vastness against the mountain backdrop. The site can be quite breathtaking and humbling, reminding us just how much human ingenuity and effort goes into extracting the raw materials we often take for granted.

Additional Considerations

While the tour is quite comprehensive, some reviews highlighted cancellations due to weather or operational issues. For instance, a group was disappointed when their trip was canceled last minute because of weather conditions. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and book in advance, as the tour tends to be popular and often booked about 13 days ahead. Also, the $159 price includes transportation and admission, which makes it a good value compared to trying to visit independently and rent a car.

If you’re interested in large-scale engineering, industrial history, or simply want to see a world-renowned geological site, this tour offers something for all. Families with kids will particularly enjoy the visual spectacle and the chance to learn about how copper is mined. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drive and mountain views, while those with a curiosity for technology and resource industries will find the guided commentary especially enlightening.

Travelers who value small-group experiences and personalized attention will feel comfortable and engaged. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a canceled or weather-dependent outing, it’s worth noting that plans can change unexpectedly, so flexibility and a little patience are advisable.

For anyone fascinated by nature’s grandeur and human ingenuity, this tour is a showcase of both. You get the chance to witness one of the largest industrial sites on Earth while enjoying a scenic drive through Utah’s mountains. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas make it a memorable outing, especially for those eager to learn about mining or engineering.

The cost is reasonable given what’s included, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience. However, be prepared for the possibility of cancellations and weather-related disruptions, which are beyond the tour operator’s control. For travelers who appreciate authentic, educational, and visually impressive experiences, this trip offers great value and plenty of photo opportunities.

Overall, whether you’re a geology buff, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique adventure during a Utah visit, this guided tour of the Bingham Canyon Mine will leave a lasting impression.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from the Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown is included, making it easy and convenient to reach the mine.

How long does the entire tour last? The total experience is approximately 4 hours, including a scenic drive and the visit to the mine.

What is the tour’s group size? The maximum group size is 13 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the huge open pit.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is designed to be family-friendly, and most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

What if the mine is closed or the tour is canceled? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and in case of cancellations, a full refund or rescheduling options are available.

Can I visit the mine independently? While the tour offers guided insights and transportation, you can arrange a private visit if desired, but it may not include the educational commentary provided here.

Embark on this adventure to witness one of the most impressive industrial sights on the planet, and prepare to be inspired by the scale, ingenuity, and beauty of Utah’s famous copper mine.