Fall 2026
TBD
Moderate to DifficultHalf day
TBDLed by TBD
TBD
What you might find:
TBDTBDTBDTBD
Meet:
TBD
Get Outside
Field Trips
From agate beds and fossil sites to sapphire gravels and petrified wood forests — explore northwest geology firsthand
About Field Trips
Rockhounding in and around Montana
Montana is one of the richest rockhounding states in the country. Our club organizes several field trips each year ranging from singly day outings to multi-day expeditions into remote terrain.
Trips are open to all current club members. We share tools, knowledge, and the thrill of finding something extraordinary right out of the ground.
All field trips are for members only. Join the club to participate.
Trip details are shared at monthly meetings and via the member newsletter.
Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, sun protection, and a way to carry your finds.
On the Calendar
Upcoming Field Trips
Spring 2027
TBD
ModerateFull day
TBDLed by Joe Smith
TBD
What you might find:
TBDTBDTBDTBD
Meet:
TBD
Spring 2027
TBD
EasyOvernight
TBDLed by TBD
TBD
What you might find:
TBDTBDTBDTBD
Meet:
TBD
Trip Reports
Past Adventures
May 21-24, 2026
Blue Forest
Southwestern, WY
A Northwest Federation Trip which means members of the Northwest Federation will be coming to this popular dig site.
Unique finds in this area.
June 24-26, 2026
Teepee Canyon Agates
Teepee Canyon, SD
Another combined Northwest Federation Trip. East of Newcastle, Wyoming. Site is located in South Dakota. Another fun trip with digging and surface collecting.
Could be some hard work, but always a good time.
July 24-26, 2026
Crystal Park
West of I-15 between Wise River and Polaris, MT
This hosted site is run by the Montana Forest Service. Visit the USDA Beaverhead-Deerlodge site for the information and rules.
Quartz crystals of assorted sizes
Field Trip Tips
What to Bring
Tools
A rock hammer, chisel, shovel, or other tools may be helpful depending on the field trip.
Sturdy Boots & Layers
Montana terrain is rough. Ankle support is important. Weather can change quickly — dress appropriately.
Water & Snacks
Bring at least 2 liters of water per person. Remote sites have no services.
Collection Bag or Bucket
Cloth bags or buckets for your special finds.
Safety Glasses
Required when hammering rock. Flying chips are a real hazard.
Maps
Cell service is can be unreliable in the backcountry. Download maps or stay close to the guide.
Members Only — Join to Participate
Field trips are one of the best perks of club membership. Annual dues are just $15 for individuals and $20 for families — a small price for access to some of the best rockhounding in the country.