thanks @nomadicsoul . Gold mining in SoCal is fun because the scenery is beautiful. I hike into the Angeles National Forest for about 3 hours with my gear and set up in a very cold river which is helpful because it keeps your feet and hands from swelling up after the hike and while you dig. I don't find much with my little sluice box, shovels and pan. It have found nearly 1/2 oz in about 10 trips. Once you find a little you really get gold fever. It's really fun but not so profitable.