How to Pan for Gold in Wichita, KS

Kansas has a rich history when it comes to the "gold rush' days of the old west. Smokey Hill River, located near Abeline in north central Kansas, has been a gold panning hot spot since the mid 1800s. Gold panning is still a popular activity and in Kansas, there is no better location than Smokey Hill River. With a few items and a little luck, it wouldn't be impossible to find gold along the trail today.

• 1

  Find a spot along the river's edge where the water is at least 6 inches high and not flowing too fast. This spot should also be comfortable and safe enough for squatting or sitting for long periods of time.

• 2

  Dig the pan into gravel or soil along the banks, filling about three fourths of the way and dip the pan into the water, submerging it. A shovel may be used to loosen gravel and scoop away large rocks.

• 3

  Gently shake the pan back and forth several times while under water, then switch to a circular motion. Doing this will wash away light dirt and mud from the pan. Do this several times until lighter contents float to the top and heavier contents settle on the bottom. Large rocks and moss can be picked out by hand. Momentarily holding the pan level and shaking it back and forth will also bring lighter materials to the surface and help gold particles to settle.

• 4

  Lift the pan out of the water, leaving close to an inch of water in the pan and swirl it in a circular motion to view any gold nuggets or particles which can be picked by hand.

• 5

  Repeat step four, making sure to keep an open eye and not wash out any gold, until around 2 cups of residue is left in the pan which is called "black sand."

• 6

  Place a large magnet on the bottom of the pan and move in a circular motion. This will help separate any gold particles hiding in the "black sand" residue.