Created 11/19/2017 05:25 AM
Rockhounding, often called rock collecting, is an activity that involves searching for and collecting rocks and minerals from their natural environment. It is a great way to get outdoors, explore, and learn about geology—all without needing to travel far. The Snake River Plain, a region in the western United States, is an ideal place for rockhounding due to its diverse geology and abundance of mineral deposits. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the geology and best spots for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain.
The Snake River Plain stretches across parts of Idaho, Oregon, and Wyoming and is one of the most geologically diverse regions in the country. It is home to a variety of rock types, including basalt, quartzite, granite, and rhyolite, as well as mineral deposits of gold, silver, copper, and other precious metals. The area has been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity, tectonic forces, and erosion, resulting in a landscape dotted with mountains, canyons, and hot springs.
Rockhounding in the Snake River Plain can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be mindful of the environment. Be sure to avoid collecting from public lands, and if on private land, always ask for permission before collecting. It’s also important to bring the proper tools, such as a pick, shovel, and bucket.
With that said, let’s take a look at some of the best spots for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain.
One of the best spots for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain is the Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers Wilderness Area in Idaho. This area is known for its abundance of basalt, quartzite, and rhyolite, as well as its mineral deposits of gold, silver, and copper. The Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers Wilderness is a great place to explore, with plenty of hills, canyons, and hot springs.
Another great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain is the City of Rocks National Reserve in Idaho. This area is home to a variety of rocks and minerals, including quartzite, granite, and rhyolite. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and mule deer.
The Owyhee Mountains in Oregon are another great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. This area is home to a variety of rocks and minerals, including quartzite, granite, and rhyolite. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and mule deer.
The Shoshone Falls in Idaho is another great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. This area is known for its abundance of basalt, quartzite, and rhyolite, as well as its mineral deposits of gold, silver, and copper. The Shoshone Falls is a great place to explore, with plenty of hills, canyons, and hot springs.
The hot springs of Yellowstone National Park are also a great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. This area is home to a variety of rocks and minerals, including quartzite, granite, and rhyolite. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and mule deer.
The Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is another great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. This area is known for its abundance of quartzite, granite, and rhyolite, as well as its mineral deposits of gold, silver, and copper. The Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore, with plenty of hills, canyons, and hot springs.
Finally, the Bear River Range in Idaho is another great spot for rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. This area is home to a variety of rocks and minerals, including quartzite, granite, and rhyolite. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and mule deer.
We hope this guide has provided you with some helpful information about rockhounding in the Snake River Plain. Whether you’re looking for quartzite, granite, or rhyolite, or searching for gold, silver, and copper, the Snake River Plain has something for everyone. Just remember to be mindful of the environment and follow the proper protocols when collecting. Happy rockhounding!
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