Rockhounding in Fairbanks, Alaska, is an interesting hobby for everyone to try.
You can find many minerals and rocks that are not found anywhere else in the United States!
Whether you’re a rockhound beginner or expert, here are some of the best ideas to get started.
Rockhounding Fairbanks (A Visitor’s Guide)
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article by YesDirt.com is for informational purposes and is subject to change. Laws are updated. Accessibility guidelines and restrictions change. Be sure to confirm the land status and collection rules before you travel to an unfamiliar location or collect any material.
When you’re looking for places to do rockhounding, ensure you’re also looking up the local weather, conditions, whether you can drive there or must hike.
Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions in some parts, dressing appropriately for where you’re going.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North.
The museum is home to many rocks and minerals from all over the world.
It’s a suitable place to learn about rockhounding and where to find suitable spots in Fairbanks.
They have a variety of exhibits and classes about rocks, gems, fossils, geology, etc., so it’s worth checking out!
Ester Dome
If you’re looking for a challenging rock-hounding destination, head to Ester Dome.
This mountain is about twenty-five miles south of Fairbanks and is known for its variety of minerals.
The hike up can be difficult, but it’s worth it.
You can find many minerals on the way up, including quartz and mica schist formations!
The Gold Dredge No. Eight
The Gold Dredge No. Eight is another must-visit spot for rockhounds.
The dredge is home to many minerals that were found in the area, including diamonds!
You can also find some large gold nuggets in this spot.
If you’re looking for unique rocks and minerals, this is the place for you.
Jade Mountain
Jade Mountain is a wonderful place to find several types of jade.
The mountain is about an hour outside of Fairbanks, and it’s worth the trip.
You can find many jade in distinct colors, including green, blue, and black.
If you’re looking for something unique to add to your collection, this is the place to go!
Moose Creek
If you’re looking for some unique rocks and minerals, Moose Creek is a beautiful place to check out.
You may not find diamonds or gold here that you can find in other spots around Fairbanks, but this location provides an interesting opportunity.
Moose Creek has many unique types of rocks, ranging from coal ore to copper ore.
Hayes Mountain Range
The Hayes Mountain Range is a wonderful place to find diverse types of quartz.
The range has many assorted colors of quartz, including pink, purple, and white.
If you’re looking for something unique to add to your collection, this is the place to go!
You can also find some agate here.
Location Distance from Fairbanks
- The University of Alaska Museum of the North 0.25 mile north
- Ester Dome 25 miles south
- Gold Dredge No. Eight 15 miles east
- Jade Mountain 60 miles southeast
- Moose Creek 20 miles northeast
- Hayes Mountain Range 30 miles northwest
Will I be Driving or Hiking at These Destinations?
The University of Alaska Museum of the North and Gold Dredge No.
Eight are both accessible by car, so you can drive to those locations easily.
Ester Dome is a bit more difficult as it’s located twenty-five miles south and requires an arduous hike up the mountain. You may want to go with someone who has experience rockhounding to ensure you don’t miss any suitable spots.
The Hayes Mountain Range is a moderate hike that will take about an hour, and Moose Creek is also moderately easy to hike. Jade Mountain is the most difficult as it’s located sixty miles southeast and will take up to two hours to reach.
Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions in some parts, dressing appropriately for where you’re going.
What Kind of Rocks and Minerals Can I Expect to Find?
At the University of Alaska Museum of the North (1), you can find rocks and minerals from all over the world.
The exhibits highlight a wide variety of specimens that will give you an idea about what to look for when rockhounding.
The Gold Dredge No. Eight (3) has plenty of gold nuggets, but you can also find other minerals in the area.
This is a magnificent spot to visit if you’re looking for something specific!
The Jade Mountain (4) exhibit provides beautiful samples of jade that show what rocks and minerals they find there.
You’ll be able to see many diverse types of jade that you can find there.
The Hayes Mountain Range (6) is a wonderful place to find quartz of all colors, including purple and pink.
Moose Creek (5) has many interesting minerals, including copper ore and coal.
Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions in some parts, dressing appropriately for where you’re going.
Ester Dome (2) has many rocks and minerals from around the area, including jade. You may find some interesting stones here!
What to Bring with You
Be sure to bring a sturdy bag or backpack to carry whatever you find while rockhounding.
It’s also important to have water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and a hat.
Dress appropriately for the weather and the location you’ll be visiting.
Make sure you have a good pair of shoes, too!
Will I Be Able to Keep Anything I Find?
You will not be allowed to keep any gold you find at Gold Dredge No. Eight.
This is because it’s on public property, so everything found must be turned over to the government.
You may keep any rocks and minerals you find at other locations, but please remember that these are natural resources, so take only what you need!
Picking up every rock you see is unnecessary and can damage the area.
We should collect rocks with a sense of responsibility to maintain the beauty of the area.
If you’re looking for a fun and interesting way to spend your time, rockhounding in Fairbanks, AK is the activity for you!
There are plenty of locations to visit that will provide you with diverse rocks and minerals to add to your collection.
Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions in some parts, dressing appropriately for where you’re going.
Get out there and start rockhounding!
You might also like:
- Where To Find Amethyst In Alaska
- Geodes in Alaska: Where To Find Them
- Rockhounding Homer
- Rockhounding Juneau
- Types Of Rocks Found In Alaska
