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Rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains: A Guide to the Best Spots in Wyoming

Created 05/01/2014 09:32 PM
Rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming is a popular activity for those looking to explore the outdoors and find unique minerals, rocks, and fossils. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or a beginner, the Bighorn Mountains offer some of the best rockhounding opportunities in the entire state. Here’s a guide to the best spots for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming.

Geology of the Bighorn Mountains


The Bighorn Mountains are an isolated mountain range located in north-central Wyoming. They are part of the Rocky Mountains and stretch from Montana in the north to Wyoming in the south. The area is home to a diverse range of geological formations, including sedimentary rocks, igneous rocks, and metamorphic rocks. The area is also rich in minerals and fossils, which are often found in the rock formations.

Best Spots for Rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains


1. Big Horn County


Big Horn County is a great spot for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains. The area is known for its abundance of petrified wood, as well as a variety of quartz varieties, such as rose quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst. The area is also known for its abundance of fossils, including trilobites, brachiopods, and crinoids.

2. Big Horn National Forest


The Big Horn National Forest is a popular spot for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains. The forest is home to a variety of rocks, minerals, and fossils, such as quartz crystals, agates, jaspers, and petrified wood. The area is also home to a variety of fossils, including trilobites, brachiopods, and crinoids.

3. Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site


The Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site is a great spot for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains. The site is home to a variety of rocks, minerals, and fossils, as well as Native American artifacts. The area is especially known for its abundance of petrified wood, as well as a variety of quartz varieties, such as rose quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst.

4. Pryor Mountains


The Pryor Mountains are a great spot for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains. The area is known for its abundance of petrified wood, as well as a variety of quartz varieties, such as rose quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst. The area is also home to a variety of fossils, including trilobites, brachiopods, and crinoids.

5. Cloud Peak Wilderness


The Cloud Peak Wilderness is a great spot for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains. The area is home to a variety of rocks, minerals, and fossils, as well as stunning views of the surrounding area. The area is especially known for its abundance of petrified wood, as well as a variety of quartz varieties, such as rose quartz, smoky quartz, and amethyst.

Tips for Rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains


1. Make sure to obtain permission before rockhounding on private property

2. Wear proper clothing and footwear when rockhounding in the mountains


3. Bring a hammer, chisel, and other tools to help you break apart rocks and access fossils

4. Bring a backpack to carry your finds, as well as water and snacks


5. Always practice Leave No Trace principles when you’re out rockhounding


6. Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations that apply to rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains


Conclusion


Rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming is a popular activity for those looking to explore the outdoors and find unique minerals, rocks, and fossils. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or a beginner, the Bighorn Mountains offer some of the best rockhounding opportunities in the entire state. With this guide to the best spots for rockhounding in the Bighorn Mountains, you’ll be sure to find plenty of unique rocks, minerals, and fossils. Just make sure to follow the tips outlined above and practice Leave No Trace principles when you’re out rockhounding. Happy rockhounding!

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