Since the mid-1800s the rivers of north-central Alberta have been searched for placer gold, and most likely, the richest deposits have already been mined. That said, you probably won’t strike your fortune in Alberta, but careful searching can still result in some color in the pan.
Eons of erosion has resulted in flour gold, which is extremely fine in texture, and is generally associated with black sand, which contains particles of other heavy minerals as well as sand. Commonly this gold is best recovered by panning. Placer mining with a sluice box is another method of recovery.
The recreational prospector should be looking at the inside bends of the waterway, the bottoms of pools, and any place where the black sand would naturally settle as it washes down. You will find the flour gold primarily close to the surface.
Placer Gold Locations
In the past gold has been recovered in areas of the North Saskatchewan, Red Deer, Peace, and Athabasca River systems. Since the government of Alberta has not produced a map showing these areas, you will have to your own research to find an area that appeals to you.
You can find placer gold along the North Saskatchewan River below the rapids at Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, extending to approximately 15 miles below Fort Saskatchewan.
Check out the inside bends of the Red Deer River below the Joffre bridge in late summer.
Near the town of Peace River, the gravel banks 200 to 300 feet above the water level are worth a look.
Beginning at Fort Assiniboine, explore the Athabasca River, as well as the upper gravels near Whitecourt, and extending upstream five miles or so.
Starting Your Search
Gold panners do not need a license, licenses are required if you are using a sluice box or rocker and must be obtained before setting up any equipment. This license is $50 but is valid for five years, and allows the holder to occupy the same location for up to fourteen days.
The regulations can get a little complicated, and you would do well to check with Alberta Energy and Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development to make sure you have all your ducks in a row. A little research ahead of time can save you a headache later on.
Finally, if you find yourself in southwestern Alberta in the Crowsnest Pass, there is said to be a vein of gold worth millions called the Lost Lemon Mine. Geologists feel that, since gold deposits go hand in hand with volcanic activity, the likelihood of such a vein in Alberta is not very great. But hey, you never know.
Next: Can You Actually Make Money Mining for Gold?