This Montana pastime is a great way to explore the outdoors and find some treasures along the way.
Rockhounding is another term for amateur geology or rock collecting. Rockhounders of all experience levels hunt for rocks, minerals, gems and fossils. Montana’s riverbanks, dried-up creeks and mountain trails have proven to be excellent hounding spots, providing a unique way to explore off the beaten path. Trophy finds include quartz, geodes and the elusive Montana moss agate — a rare, semi-precious gemstone that’s unique to the state.
The beauty of rockhounding is that it’s what you make of it. If you want to pack your tools and spray bottles to inspect each rock, go for it! Or, if you’re looking to hunt casually on a hike, you can do that too. Keep in mind that most fishing access sites and wildlife management areas require a Conservation License to access them, so make sure to grab one before you set out on your adventure.
)
)
)
)
)
Montana is rich in diverse rocks and minerals, and with plenty of Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks public land where rockhounding is generally allowed, you're never too far from your next treasure. When looking for a place to hound, it’s important to stick to public lands unless you have express permission. Here are a few of our favorite places to hunt:
● Yellowstone River - The Yellowstone River is Montana’s longest free-flowing river, which means there are plenty of riverbanks to hunt from. Some of the best hounding in the state is on the section of the river that flows between Custer and Sidney. This is a popular spot for Montana moss agates, quartz and jasper.
● Pryor Mountains - Southeastern Montana’s Pryor Mountains are home to a unique array of gems and minerals, including Bear Canyon agate, which can only be found here. Jasper and quartz are also typical finds.
● Cable Mountain - Northwest of Anaconda, Cable Mountain is rich with scheelite and epidote around Georgetown Lake, and offers incredible views to take in while you’re hunting.
● Crystal Park - Tucked away in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this popular park is a great place for rockhounding beginners. Here, it’s as easy as picking a spot and starting to dig! Rich in quartz and amethyst, you’re sure to find some keepers at Crystal Park.
A guided experience may be right for you if you’re looking to dig a little deeper. With a guide, you know you’re hunting in an area that has proven to produce, and you don’t have to worry about getting any gear on your own. If you want to make a day out of your search, here are some guided excursions to help you get the most out of your hunt:
● Montana Agate Shack - Montana Agate Shack’s trips are led by an experienced guide who has been hounding the Yellowstone for two decades. These trips are offered from various locations along the river from March to October, depending on weather and water conditions.
● Yellowstone River Adventures - Based in Glendive, Yellowstone River Adventures’ river tours offer not only guided rockhounding, but a chance to learn about the history of Lewis and Clark as they traveled through the area.
● Gem Mountain - As one of the largest and oldest sapphire mines in the world, Gem Mountain near Phillipsburg lets visitors hunt for gems in gravel wash troughs, making this experience accessible for hounders of all ages. Staff is on hand to help you identify gems hidden in the gravel.
● Baisch’s Dinosaur Digs - Rockhound amongst dinosaur bones and petrified wood on one of Baisch’s Dinosaur Digs. This guided day trip through the badlands will teach you how to identify and excavate fossils, as well as supply all the gear for your adventure.
)
)
)
)