Mining remains one of the most classic gathering skills in Old School RuneScape. With just a pickaxe and some patience, players can gather ores and minerals used for Smithing, Crafting, and other skills. While Mining used to be a strong money maker, modern PvM drops have reduced its profitability for main accounts. However, it remains extremely valuable for Ironman players who rely on gathering their own resources. Having enough RuneScape gold can be a great help to you.

In this guide, we'll walk through the best methods to train Mining from level 1 to 99 in 2026, including AFK training, faster methods, and the most efficient routes to reach max level.

Skipping the Slow Early Levels

Early Mining levels are notoriously slow. Because of this, the best way to begin training is actually through questing rather than traditional mining.

Several early quests provide significant Mining experience and allow players to skip the painful low levels. Before starting them, you should prepare a few basic requirements:

Level 5 Thieving (pickpocketing men and women)

Level 25 Thieving from cake stalls in Ardougne

Level 10 Herblore via the Druidic Ritual quest and making attack potions

Level 10 Agility from early quests or rooftop courses

These small requirements unlock some important quests that give large Mining experience rewards.

Questing to Level 33 Mining

The first key quest is Plague City, located in Ardougne. Completing this quest instantly boosts your Mining level from 1 to around 15, saving a lot of early grinding.

Next, travel to the Dwarven Mine north of Falador and collect the materials needed for Doric's Quest:

6 Clay

4 Copper Ore

2 Iron Ore

Once completed, Doric's Quest will raise your Mining level to about 18.

The final quest for cheap Runescape gold early training is The Dig Site, which requires the skills mentioned earlier. Completing this quest rewards a massive 15,300 Mining experience, bringing your level all the way up to 33 Mining.