Take a combined boat and walking tour through the Historic Bonne Terre Mine – a five-level underground world created by St. Joe Lead Company from 1862 to 1963. It is now the home to the world’s largest subterranean lake! The guided tour will descend to 200 feet below the earth where you will learn about the history of mining in Southern Missouri – once the largest deposit of lead on the planet. See the equipment and learn about mining life.
The walking portion of the tour covers about one-third mile to the dock of the Billion Gallon Lake where our scuba divers start their descents into the crystal clear water. You will board the pontoon boat for a 10-minute excursion around the limestone pillars in the largest rooms of the mine. Features of the tour are the No. 1 elevator, submerged ore carts, wrapped pillars, and ancient abandoned overhead wooden catwalks suspended 50-100 feet above the lake.
World’s Largest Subterranean Lake! A guided tour by boat, of the Billion Gallon Lake with its crystal clear water, and spectacular view of the largest parts of the mine. See the No. 1 Elevator, Submerged Ore Carts, Wrapped Pillars, and Ancient Abandoned Overhead Wooden catwalks suspended 50-100 feet above the lake.
Descend into the darkness and discover a labyrinth of underground passages, illuminated only by the Illumination of the above lighting. Explore forgotten caverns adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites, remnants of a time long past. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters, which reveal a stunning array of geological formations and ancient artifacts.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure, Bonne Terre Mine has something for everyone. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you safely through the depths, ensuring an experience that’s as educational as it is exhilarating. Take a stepback in Time.