We had a chance to do some rockhounding using the Gem Trails of AZ book as the primary resource the 22nd – 26th of February. This was our first trip using the GPS so the coordinates to the parking area was very useful. Here are brief notes about a few sites:
Maricope green jaspar site 73.
2/22/10 Easy to find the jump off point and an easy mile or so the collecting area. There was very nice material from light to dark green with some in large chunks up the hillsides. We did not need to do any hard rock work on the main deposit. To make things more interesting we reached the notch just in time to be hit by the edge of a large thunder cell so we had several minutes of cold rain, hail and strong wind to soak us through. The moisture really showed the color though!
Site 59.
2/23/10 Do not turn off the pavement at the first road marked by two rusty poles on the right at about the correct mileage. Take the next dirt road which is a much better path straight to the collecting site. The old Rowley mine is now controlled by a gentleman named Bob. He is letting a couple guys work the mine underground so there are some newer tailing piles with good specimens to be found. Due to a recent theft of fuel and equipment Bob has closed the property and posted no access. We called the number on the sign at the main access, 1.586.256.1223, introduced ourselves and asked permission. Bob allowed us to collect for the afternoon for which we were very grateful as there is beatiful material. We obtained all the featured minerals - some in attractive combinations. The wulfinite crystals were not large but very nice.
Wenden agate site 5.
2/25/10 Do not attempt this without 4 wheel drive. The section over the mountains has several very steep up and down loose rock sections. Very worthwhile trip however. Good quantity and quality of material and the site is scenic. Agate is the most plentiful. A small group of wild burros added to the experience.
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