 If you're visiting the
Blue Ridge Parkway, near Spruce Pine at Gillespie Gap, be sure to stop by the Museum of North Carolina Minerals. The Museum of North Carolina Minerals features some fantastic mineral and gemstone exhibits that have fascinated
thousands for over 46 years. The museum was created in 1956 and exists as a joint project between the National Park Service and the North Carolina Department of Conservation and Development.
In 2002, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals at Spruce Pine underwent
a nearly one million dollar renovation project. The joint venture between the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the National Park Service and the Mitchell County Government was to expand the museum and broaden the attraction’s educational
goals. A major focus of the Museum of North
Carolina Minerals is to enhance local students' learning in the Earth Sciences, and the museum is just one of the areas many resources for teachers and other school staff.
 The Museum of North Carolina Minerals new exhibits are: “From Mountains to Molecules”, providing an explanation of the geological processes that formed the mountains over a million years ago, “Inside the Linville Falls Fault”,
a captivating explanation why the area is rich in mineral resources and geologic activity, “From Mountains to Rocks”, explaining what minerals are and how they are identified and coded, “Mineral Mart”, a historical exhibit that displays the prominent role mineral mining served in North Carolina and how the industry shaped the economy of the state, region and overall country, “Enter the Mine”, showcases how minerals are mined, processed and incorporated into the manufacturing of numerous products.
The Museum of North Carolina Minerals is just one of many
North Carolina Gemstone Mining Attractions in Spruce Pine and the surrounding mountain communities of Mitchell County North Carolina. Learn more about the adorable mountain area of Spruce Pine and
its rich mining heritage.
Spruce Pine
NC is a wonderful place to vacation
and an even better place to own a private
mountain getaway. If you are looking for Spruce
Pine Cabin Rentals or Spruce Pine Motels then
check out our lodging listings. If you are
looking for distinct mountain properties with
long range views atop, private, hidden crests,
browse the Spruce Pine Real Estate listings. We
strive to be your source for all things Spruce Pine.
Located at milepost 331 on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap,
at the junction of the Parkway and North Carolina Highway 226
Blue Ridge Parkway // Spruce Pine, NC 28777
// 828-765-9483
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I hope that you will take a few moments to tour this site to discover all that we have to offer in the wonderful Spruce Pine, NC area. You'll be glad that you did!
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