Vernon, British Columbia offers an extraordinary opportunity for nature enthusiasts and treasure seekers alike. Just a short drive from the city, visitors can explore the Okanagan Outback at an elevation of 1500 meters, where they’ll uncover the secrets of the earth – precious opals and agates. With expert guidance, flexible booking, and essential safety gear provided, this unique "Dig Your Own Opals" experience promises an unforgettable adventure. What awaits those who venture into this stunning landscape, however, might just surprise you.
Key Points
- The Klinker Opal Property, located 40 km from Vernon, BC, offers a "Dig Your Own Opals" experience at an elevation of 1500 meters.
- The activity lasts 4-5 hours and is guided by a local expert, providing the opportunity to uncover precious opals and agates.
- Access to the site is via a 20-km gravel road, making an SUV the recommended vehicle due to the unpaved conditions.
- Booking for the experience can be made with a reserve now and pay later option, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
- Participants are advised to bring essential items like sturdy hiking shoes, gloves, personal safety gear, and hand digging tools for a successful opal-digging expedition.
Location and Access
The Klinker Opal Property is located approximately 40 kilometers from the city of Vernon, British Columbia, accessible via a 20-kilometer gravel road.
This route is suitable for vehicles with reasonable clearance, though an SUV is recommended due to the unpaved nature of the access road.
The activity takes place at an elevation of 1500 meters, allowing visitors to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Okanagan Outback.
Participants should confirm the meeting point, generally at the Six Mile Convenience Store, with the activity provider 24 hours prior to their visit.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Vernon.
Activity Duration and Elevation
The Dig Your Own Opals experience in Vernon, BC lasts 4 to 5 hours.
This opal digging adventure takes place at an elevation of 1500 meters, providing visitors with stunning views of the Okanagan Outback.
The site is located 40 kilometers from Vernon and is accessible via a 20-kilometer gravel road, which is suitable for vehicles with reasonable clearance.
The activity is conducted in English, with a live tour guide leading the expedition.
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a novice treasure hunter, this unique experience offers the opportunity to uncover your own precious opals and agates amidst the rugged beauty of the Okanagan region.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Prices for the Dig Your Own Opals experience in Vernon, BC start from K836 per person.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Pre-registration is mandatory.
The booking and cancellation policy offers:
- Reserve now & pay later
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Full refund for cancellations
This flexible approach allows visitors to plan their opal digging adventure with ease and peace of mind.
Included Amenities
The Dig Your Own Opals experience in Vernon, BC includes several amenities to enhance the adventure. Participants can expect opal and agate digging as the primary activity, guided by a knowledgeable local.
Safety gear is provided, ensuring a secure exploration. Plus, the option for overnight camping is available, allowing visitors to enjoy the rugged Okanagan Outback.
While transportation, food, and drinks aren’t included, the experience offers a unique opportunity to uncover nature’s hidden gems. With the guidance of the on-site experts, visitors can expect a memorable and enriching adventure in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning landscape.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExperience Highlights
Visitors can excavate up to 2.5 kg of opal and agate during the Dig Your Own Opals experience in Vernon, BC. The activity allows them to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Okanagan Outback.
An overnight camping option is available for those seeking extended adventures.
The highlights of this experience include:
- Excavating precious opal and agate minerals
- Taking in the stunning Okanagan Outback landscape
- Extending the adventure with an overnight camping option
Participants can expect a guided orientation, safety gear, and the opportunity to unearth their own unique gemstone treasures.
Preparation and Requirements
To get the most out of the Dig Your Own Opals experience, participants should note the meeting point and come prepared.
The activity provider typically meets at the Six Mile Convenience Store, 11307 Westside Rd, Vernon, BC. Guests should confirm the meeting point 24 hours in advance.
It’s recommended to have an SUV for the 20-kilometer gravel road access. Participants should bring food, drinks, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, gloves, personal safety equipment, and hand digging tools like a hammer, chisel, small shovel, and screens.
Checking road conditions before the trip is also advised to ensure a smooth journey.
What to Bring
Participants should bring several essential items for their Dig Your Own Opals experience. These include:
- Sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rough terrain
- Gloves to protect hands during digging
- Personal safety equipment like sunscreen and rain gear
Plus, participants are encouraged to pack their own food, drinks, and hand digging tools like a hammer, chisel, and small shovel.
It’s also recommended to bring screens to help sift and sort through the excavated material.
Road Conditions and Recommended Vehicle
The 20-kilometer gravel access road to the Klinker Opal Property requires careful navigation.
While suitable for vehicles with reasonable clearance, an SUV is recommended to handle the uneven terrain and occasional potholes.
The road conditions can vary based on weather and recent maintenance, so it’s essential to check with the activity provider about the current state of the road before setting out.
Those with lower-clearance vehicles may want to consider the overnight camping option to avoid the challenges of the access road.
Proper preparation and a suitable mode of transportation will ensure a smooth journey to the opal-digging site in the Okanagan Outback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of People per Group?
The activity overview does not specify any restrictions on the number of people per group. Participants can reserve individually or in groups, as the experience accommodates both solo travelers and larger parties.
Can We Keep Any Opals We Find During the Activity?
Participants can keep any opals they find during the digging activity. The experience allows guests to excavate up to 2.5 kg of opal and agate, which they can take home as souvenirs from the day’s adventure.
Is Prior Opal Digging Experience Required to Participate?
No prior opal digging experience is required to participate. The activity includes a guided orientation to teach participants the excavation process. Novice diggers are welcome and can expect to find and take home their own opals and agates.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements for This Activity?
There are no age restrictions, but participants should be physically able to hike and dig in the rocky terrain. The activity provider recommends it’s suitable for ages 8 and up with reasonable fitness levels.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Activity to Run?
There is no minimum number of participants required for the Dig Your Own Opals activity. The experience can be booked and enjoyed by individuals or small groups, with a live tour guide provided regardless of group size.
Recap
Vernon, BC’s "Dig Your Own Opals" experience offers a unique adventure for nature enthusiasts and treasure seekers. Participants can explore the Okanagan Outback at 1500 meters, unearthing precious opals and agates with the guidance of local experts. With a flexible booking policy and essential safety gear provided, this 4 to 5-hour activity is an ideal way to connect with the stunning natural landscape.
You can check if your dates are available here: