Heading to Helena, MT in July.

Hello all. Really excited to share that I’ll be taking a really overdue trip with my recently retired dad to Helena, MT in July, exclusively to hit up some sapphire mines. It’s early days in planning, but was wondering how soon advance one should make reservations as a best practice? Our intention is to head to Blue Jewel, Blaze ‘N’ Gems, Spokane Bar, and hopefully making contact with a gentleman named Tom Greyn with the Montana Sapphire Mining Company. I can’t remember the website, but it looks like one of them opens reservations beginning in May.

Was just curious how far in advance one should make these reservations and, of course, any tips to make this an enjoyable time with my dad would appreciated (what to bring, not to bring, etc). Thanks!