Rio Tinto Kennecott Visitor Experience

Ever wondered what one of the largest human-made open-pit excavations looks like up close and personal? Come and see for yourself at the Rio Tinto Kennecott Visitor Experience at the Bingham Canyon Mine.

Founded in 1903, Kennecott’s Bingham Canyon Mine is one of the top-performing mines in the world. It has provided more wealth for the state of Utah than any other company. The mine operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Visitor Experience is dedicated to educating the public about Kennecott's key role in modern life, safe mining practices, and responsible environmental stewardship. Learn about our history and see first-hand the gigantic scale of our operation, vehicles, and artifacts. Discover how ore gets processed and refined to become 99.99% copper, an essential element in today’s infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology.

Visitor Information

• The Visitor Experience is a self-guided tour with many exhibits about the Bingham Canyon Mine, its history, and operations.


• Shuttles can accommodate up to 30 guests. Shuttle service to the mine overlook runs seven days a week, starting each day at 9:30 a.m. and running every 30 minutes, with the last shuttle departing at 2:30 p.m. (and returning by 4:00 p.m.).


• The entire experience takes about an hour but can run longer depending on how long you visit the Bingham Canyon Mine overlook.


• You are welcome to take pictures of your visit. However, professional photography is not allowed.


• Be prepared for the weather as the Visitor Experience is entirely outdoors. The weather at the mine is sometimes different than that of the rest of the Salt Lake Valley. On sunny days, it will be hot. Bring water, sunscreen, and sun protection. Please consider a jacket or umbrella if it looks like it may rain. In the cooler months, be prepared for wind and cold temperatures.


• To book a field trip, please contact us by phone at (385) 510-5576 or email at info@rtkvisitorexperience.com with your school’s name, class size, and preferred dates to visit.  The Visitor Experience only books field trips Monday through Friday. We require one adult chaperone for every 7–10 students and can accommodate a maximum group of 60. If you are unable to attend during this time, we may not be able to accommodate your party in one bus trip. 


• To make an ADA reservation, please contact customer support at (385) 510-5576 at least 24 hours in advance.  


• If you require further help, please contact: (385) 510-5576

Tickets

Tickets are $6 each and children under the age of five are free. All proceeds will be generously donated to the Kennecott Charitable Foundation.

Tickets should be purchased in advance. If we are at capacity that day, walk-up visitors risk being unable to visit the mine overlook. Walk-up visitors will need to use a credit card to complete an on-site ticket purchase. 

Tickets Exchange or Cancellation Policy

Visitors wishing to exchange their tickets for a different timeslot can do so directly through the ticketing website. Step-by-step instructions can be found Here. If you need additional assistance or have questions, please contact us directly at info@rtkvisitorexperience.com. Exchanges can be made up to one (1) hour prior to your original timeslot and are subject to the availability of tickets on other days/times. 

To request a refund, please email the confirmation ID number shown on your receipt and on your order confirmation to info@rtkvisitorexperience.com.

ADA  Accessible

ADA departure times are 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Sunday. To make an ADA reservation, please contact customer support at (385) 510-5576 at least 24 hours in advance.  

The Visitor Experience is fully ADA accessible. A Rio Tinto employee will escort guests requiring ADA assistance to the Kennecott Visitor Experience overlook in their vehicles. Please plan two and a half hours for this self-guided tour experience.  

Guests requiring ADA assistance will be escorted by a Rio Tinto employee to the Kennecott Visitor Experience overlook in their vehicles. 

Please ensure the following:

• The driver is capable of operating the vehicle.


• The vehicle meets any necessary requirements to navigate the area safely.

Kennecott Charitable Foundation

The Kennecott Charitable Foundation is a dedicated non-profit corporate foundation focused on uplifting the residents of Utah. Our mission is to support local charities and non-profits that serve vulnerable populations in the Salt Lake Region, including the poor, homeless individuals, disabled persons, children in need, veterans, senior citizens, and those grappling with illness and disease.

*Fundraising Efforts*

We generate funds for meaningful organizations through tax-deductible entrance fees collected at the Kennecott Visitor Experience. Additionally, the Bingham Canyon Lions Club enhances our fundraising efforts by contributing proceeds from gift shop sales.

*Our Board of Trustees*

The Foundation is governed by a board of nine trustees, which includes representatives from the greater Salt Lake Area and selected Kennecott employees and retirees. This diverse group consists of educational and religious leaders, all hailing from the southwestern part of the Salt Lake Valley, including Magna and Copperton.

*Our Focus Areas*

Our programs specifically target the underserved populations of Salt Lake County and Tooele County, with special emphasis on communities adjacent to Kennecott's operations. We are committed to making a positive impact where it is most needed.

To learn more about the Kennecott Charitable Foundation and the grant process, please visit Here