Bancroft and the surrounding region known as North Hastings is one of the most unique areas geologically in the entire world! With almost 90% of all types of minerals found on earth located in North Hastings, Bancroft is a major destination for recreational rock hounding enthusiasts and is known as the "Mineral Capital of Canada". For over fifty years, tens of thousands of mineral enthusiasts have traveled to Bancroft to experience the annual Rockhound Gemboree.
The first discovery of gold in Ontario was made in 1866 on the Richardson farm near Madoc. The find sparked a gold rush to the Madoc area and miners looking for gold combed much of the surrounding area, including Deloro and Eldorado. In Marmora there is an open pit mine (Marmora Mine Site) that has been flooded by an underground spring to resemble a small lake. A groomed walking trail runs beside the mine where one can still find minerals lying on the ground.
Looking to get rockhounding?
Explore the Bancroft region on a guided tour hosted by the Bancroft & District Chamber of Commerce. Learn about the local minerals and discover new gems alongside lead geologist, Robert Meek, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday during the months of July and August. Book a tour, see the schedule and/or learn more about this experience today!
Here are a few "must stop at" locations:
Here's a video produced by the Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO) about the Princess Sodalite Mine in Bancroft.
Check out the following publications: