Does New Hampshire have any active gold mines?  It's not exactly one of the states you think about when you think about gold panning.  But, you might be surprised to know that there is gold in them there waters.  Don't get all crazy.  The gold is not enough to get rich on but you might find flakes in the water and gold panning is a fun recreational activity.

Reader:  Can you tell me anything about Surry Mountain Gold Mine?  Is it still active?

Lisa:  Surry Mountain Gold Mine appears on a historic marker in the Monadnock Region in Surry Village, near Gilsum, New Hampshire.  The sign indicates that mines that yielded small amounts of gold, silver, mica, lead and copper were mined along the ridge of Surry Mountain.  However, the mine is no longer an active mine. 

But, if you are interested in panning for gold in New Hampshire, the best place to try is the Wild Ammonoosuc River in the heart of the White Mountains.  Gold has been found here for a couple of hundred years, a leftover gift from the ice age. 

Just be careful that you enter the river in public areas and do not tresspass on private property.  Be sure to get acquainted with the laws for panning in the White Mountain National Forest (panning is ok; dredges are not).