Hunt For Quartz On The Beautiful And Easy Crystal Vista Trail In Arkansas
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
The Natural State is such a treasure, and we mean that in more ways than one! In addition to our beloved diamond mine, Arkansas also has a wealth of quartz. Meander around a former crystal mine for an rewarding hike in the Ouachitas! Crystal Vista Trail is covered in quartz and panoramic views, too! Let’s learn more to see why this trail really “rocks”:
Our Natural State is one of the few places in the world that has an abundance of quartz crystals, even enough to sustain commercial mining. Multiple mines are open to the public (and are well worth visiting) but those aren't the only places to find quartz!
Crystal Vista Trail is atop Mount Gardner and halfway between two still-open crystal mines. The trail is part of the "quartz belt" that runs through the Ouachita Mountains, so you're going to find plenty of crystals!
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If you're wanting to rockhound for a couple of hours then feel free to bring extra supplies like buckets, shovels, or picks. However, causal hikers will be able to strike gold (er, quartz) by just walking around.
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Quartz is made up of silicon and oxygen that's been crystallized after being heated. This process is estimated to have occurred about 280-245 million years ago when the Ouachita Mountains had formed. Quartz is found underground but many stones can be spotted along the trail. Just keep an eye out for any white stones that catch the light!
The trail is rated as moderate for its incline and is quite rocky. We definitely recommend a good pair of hiking boots! The trail is only a 1.6 out-and-back but it's easy to spend a whole afternoon collecting crystals.
It's easy to keep your head down when looking for quartz but keep in mind "vista" is part of the trail name! At the peak of the trail you'll be able to look out from Mount Gardner for a view nearly as rewarding as the crystals.
As always, Leave No Trace when you're on the trail. Read through the guidelines set by the Forest Service before heading out, too.
As always, Leave No Trace when you're on the trail. Read through the guidelines set by the Forest Service before heading out, too.
You can always share pictures of your Crystal Vista treasures to our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
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Featured Addresses
Crystal Vista, Mt Ida, AR 71957, USA