Fairbanks, Alaska / Yukon, Canada – Gold miner Parker Schnabel’s latest expedition to prospect new ground in Alaska has paid off — but not in the way anyone expected.
While Parker and drill master Liam Ferguson tested promising terrain at Cleary Creek, their Yukon team, led by foreman Mitch Blaschke, delivered a staggering 2,293 ounces of gold in just four weeks — a haul worth an estimated $4.3 million, shattering all previous records for Schnabel’s mining operation.
Alaska Dreams, Yukon Realities
The adventure began in Fairbanks, Alaska, where Schnabel and Ferguson brought in the powerful Sonic Drill to test ground at Cleary Creek — a 30,000-acre claim rich in gold history. Though dredged in the 1940s, untouched strips of virgin land remain. The pair hoped to locate one of these golden gaps.
“This is all virgin ground,” said Schnabel on-site. “If we get results like the old dredge holes from the ‘40s, we’re in the money.”
However, initial drilling was mixed. The first claim underwhelmed, but the second, Cleary Creek, showed potential — enough that Parker hinted it may be worth long-term investment.
“It’ll take years to develop,” Parker admitted. “But it could be one heck of an adventure.”
Back in the Yukon: High Stakes and Sleepless Nights
While Parker searched for future riches, foreman Mitch Blaschke ran the entire Yukon operation — managing both Big Red and Sluicifer wash plants. Tasked with keeping production up in Parker’s absence, Mitch needed to deliver 1,800 ounces over four weeks to stay on target.
“It’s a big ask,” said Blaschke. “Everything has to run perfect. There’s no room for error.”
Despite staffing and equipment shortages, Mitch and crew pushed hard — working around the clock in grueling conditions.
“There were bumps in the road,” Mitch admitted. “But we pushed through.”
Record-Breaking Gold Weigh
When Parker returned from Alaska, he was greeted with a surprise: his crew had delivered 2,293 ounces of gold, crushing expectations.
“This used to be a good season total,” said Parker, stunned. “Now it’s just four weeks.”
With gold prices holding strong, the haul is valued at $4.3 million. Combined with earlier totals, Parker’s 2025 season has now brought in 4,787 ounces, worth approximately $8.34 million.
Eyes on the Future
With a record-breaking month behind them and promising leads in Alaska, the Schnabel crew is looking ahead. Parker hinted at plans to expand back into Alaska if logistics allow.
“If we had a plane, it’s only an hour and twenty minutes away,” he joked.
For now, the crew celebrates. But in true gold miner fashion, eyes are already drifting back to the dirt.
“Feels good,” Parker said. “But we’re not done yet.”
IN BRIEF:
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Location: Fairbanks, AK & Indian River, YT
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Alaska Drill Team: Parker Schnabel, Liam Ferguson
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Yukon Crew Lead: Mitch Blaschke
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Gold Recovered (4 weeks): 2,293 oz
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Total Season (so far): 4,787 oz
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Estimated Value: $8.34 million
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Key Discovery: Cleary Creek shows promise for future development
