Ever wondered what one of the largest human-made open-pit excavations looks like?

Starting April 1, 2026, the Rio Tinto Kennecott Visitor Experience will be open for school groups only. Public access will begin on April 20, 2026. To book your field trip, please call (385) 510-5576 or email info@rtkvisitorexperience.com.  
 
While we are closed, you can explore the operations through our virtual tour. It is an excellent opportunity to learning about the Bingham Canyon Mine from home.
Founded in 1903, Kennecott’s Bingham Canyon Mine is one of the top performing mines in the world and has contributed more wealth to 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 the important role Kennecott plays in modern life, our commitment to safe mining practices, and our focus responsible environmental stewardship. Learn about our history and see first-hand the gigantic scale of our operation, equipment, and artifacts. You will also learn how ore is processed and refined into copper that is 99.99% pure, an essential element in modern infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology. 

For any enquiries, please email us or call us at (385) 510-5576.

FAQs

  • General

    Where are you located?

    We are at 12732 Bacchus Highway, Herriman UT, 84096.

    What are your hours?

    We are open from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm every day including holidays.

    What are the busiest times?

    Saturdays and public holidays are our busiest times.

    When do shuttles run?

    Shuttles can accommodate up to 30 guests. Shuttles run every 30 minutes starting at 9.30 am. The last shuttle departs at 2.30 pm and returns by 4.00 pm. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled reservation.

    Where can I share feedback?

    All feedback can be emailed to Customer Service. Your comments help to continually improve the Visitor Experience.

    Where can visitors get drinks or food?

    Visitors are encouraged to bring a drink with them. Food is not available in the vending machines. Please remember that alcohol is not permitted on the property.

    Where is lost and found?

    Lost items are taken to the Bingham Canyon Lions Gift Shop. After a week, items will be moved to security. Security can be contacted at (801) 870-8648. 

    Are children required to be in car seats or booster seats?

    Children and adults are required to wear a seat belt while on the shuttle. Car seats and booster seats are not required, and infants may be held in arms during travel.

    Are service dogs allowed?

    Qualified service dogs are welcome at the Visitor Experience. Under Utah law, a service dog is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or mental disability. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals and are not allowed. 

    If you need assistance with ADA, please email us or call (385) 510-5576.

  • Tickets

    Should I book a ticket ahead of time?

    Yes. Tickets are limited and not guaranteed at the gate. We recommend reserving online in advance since many days sell out.

    Once we reach capacity, we are unable to accommodate visitors who have not purchased tickets in advance.

    Should I print my ticket out and bring it with me?

    You are required to scan your ticket. You can scan it from your phone or bring a printed copy.

    How much are tickets?

    Tickets are $6.00 per person. Children under 5 are free. All proceeds go directly to the Kennecott Charitable Foundation. Visit the Kennecott Charitable Foundation webpage to learn more. 

    What is your cancellation policy?

    You may cancel your reservation up to one hour before your scheduled visit for a full refund.

    Please email Customer Service to cancel. 

    What happens if there is bad weather?

    If we close due to weather or unexpected mine road conditions, refunds are issued automatically to the original payment method. Please allow up to 7 business days for the credit to show on your account. If the credit does not appear within that time, please email Customer Service for further assistance.

  • Attractions

    What will I see?

    The experience is completely self-guided. It takes place at our mine overlook. You will have a terrific view of the active pit along with 2 levels of exhibits that explain the mining process and the work being done in Utah and across Rio Tinto’s global operations. Large-scale mining equipment like a haul truck bed and motor are on display. Please be aware that shade and seating are limited.

    How long does the visit take?

    Most guests spend about one hour. The shuttle ride between the mine overlook and the parking area takes about 15 minutes each way. We recommend reserving at least 30 minutes to view the exhibits.

    Can I take photos?

    Yes, photos are encouraged. Please feel free to tag us on social media at @riotintokennecott with the hashtag #KennecottVisitorExperience.

    Please contact us for professional photography or video inquiries, including b-roll, and interview requests.

    Are restrooms available?

    Yes, restrooms are located at both the Visitor Experience parking lot and at the mine overlook.

    Is the Visitor Experience wheelchair accessible?

    Yes, the Kennecott Visitor Experience is fully ADA accessible.

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

    Are pets allowed?

    Only trained service dogs are allowed. A trained service dog is trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or mental disability. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals and are not allowed.   

    Are strollers allowed?

    Yes, strollers are allowed. For shuttle travel, please make sure that your stroller can be folded and safely stowed onboard.

    What should I do in the event of a thunderstorm?

    • The Visitor Experience will close until lightning has passed and shuttles will pause service.
    • Any shuttles at the overlook will immediately return to the Lark Parking lot.
    • Guests should remain in their vehicles until the lightning passes.
    • No outdoor location is completely safe from lightning. If you are caught outside, please seek shelter immediately.
    • If no shelter is available, crouch in the lowest area possible and roll up in a ball with feet together on the ground. Do not lie down.
  • School reservations

    To book a field trip, please call us at (385) 510-5576 or send us an email with your school name, class size, and preferred dates to visit. Field trips are available Monday through Friday. We require one adult chaperone for every 7-10 students. Each shuttle can accommodate a maximum of 30 attendees.

Visitor Experience, Kennecott

Kennecott Charitable Foundation

Everyone who visits the Kennecott Visitor Experience is positively impacting our community. All proceeds from ticket sales are donated to the Kennecott Charitable Foundation.

The Kennecott Charitable Foundation has donated more than $3.3 million to over 200 local non-profit organisations that support vulnerable populations in the Salt Lake region.

Since its creation in 1992, the Foundation has remained committed to making a positive impact for Utah residents and broader community. Funds are raised through tax deductible entrance fees from the Kennecott Visitor Experience. The Bingham Canyon Lions Club contributes additional funds from items sold at the Gift Shop.

Resources for STEM educators

We’re passionate about inspiring the next generation’s enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Our future workforce depends on it.  

If you’re a K through 12th grade STEM educator in Salt Lake, Utah or Davis counties, we’d love to support you. We have STEM-related presentations, activity kits, and educational support to help teach students about the mining process, Kennecott’s history, and contributions to the local community. Email our STEM committee at rtkstem@riotinto.com.

Gift shop

The Bingham Canyon Lions Gift Shop is located in the visitor parking area and sells a wide assortment of items. From copper jewellery and trinkets to educational excavation kits, visitors of all ages can find something special to take home. A vending machine is available with drinks, but please note that food is not sold on site.

Visitor Experience Map, Kennecott

Safety policies

Safety is essential to everything we do at Kennecott, and your safety is our top priority when you visit the Bingham Canyon Mine. We are committed to protecting the health and safety of all employees and visitors. All safety rules and policies must be followed at all times.

  • Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • All visitors must use the shuttle service to visit the overlook.
  • Children and adults must wear a seat belt while riding the shuttle. Car seats and booster seats are not required, and infants may be held in arms during travel.
  • Stay within the designated visitor areas, which are always fenced or clearly marked.
  • The use of drugs, alcohol and smoking/vaping are strictly prohibited.
  • Firearms, knives, and any other weapons are not allowed on any Rio Tinto Kennecott property.
  • The use of drones or professional photography without authorisation is not permitted anywhere on the property.

Kennecott visitor experience

T: (385) 510-5576

E: info@rtkvisitorexperience.com

Haul trucks at Kennecott copper mine

Rio Tinto Kennecott visitor experience

The Visitor Experience is a self-guided tour that shows the ins and outs of Kennecott’s mining operation and features a dramatic view of the massive open pit. Please visit the website to learn more and purchase tickets.
Two employees looking out at Rio Tinto Kennecott mine

Kennecott Charitable Foundation

A Utah-based charitable organisation committed to positively impacting Utah residents and the community since its inception in 1992.
Solar panels

Copper

From the days of antiquity, copper has been used for its many benefits