Montana is best known for its wonderful geological resources. The Treasure State earned this name thanks to gold, copper, palladium, and a plethora of other precious and valuable minerals.
Rockhounding is a popular way to learn about the diversity of rocks and collect your own riches. Our state was shaped by volcanic activity, erosion, and ancient changes to the environment. This left vast deposits of unique rocks and minerals.
Collecting rocks is a fun way to educate and celebrate our rocky roads. Here are a few fun destinations to visit and explore.
Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine This family fun stop allows visitors to sift for a variety of colorful sapphires.
Gallatin National Forest Petrified wood is abundant throughout these forests and rocky outcroppings.
Calvert Hill Mine This abandoned tungsten mine near the wise river is known for rare aquamarine crystals and garnets.
Crystal Park This 220-acre hotspot allows visitors to dig for quartz crystals. It is found along the Pioneer Scenic Byway.
Jefferson and Yellowstone Rivers Walking these rivers shorelines offer agates, jasper, and other minerals. The gravels offer gold and other fun finds.
The Butte Montana mines offer wonderful tours and museums where you can learn about Montana’s mining history.
Always check the local regulations before Rockhounding. Some areas require a permit or charge fees to gather rocks. There may also be limits on how much you can gather. Many areas may be on private property so be sure to ask for permission.
Bring the right rockhounding tools. A rock hammer, chisel, safety goggles, and a collection bag are good ideas. Keep in mind that insects and snakes lurk around rocky outcrops. You may also be hunting in areas where grizzly bears and other predators are feeding.
You will enjoy much of what Montana offers as you rockhound in these remote and beautiful places.
Find a big one!
Montana Grant
