Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals on the planet, and quartz crystals have been used throughout history as a gemstone in jewelry and decorations. In the past, quartz crystals were used by different cultures as medicine as healing stones or energy stones—and they also have some pretty interesting metaphysical properties, for those who believe.

But no matter what you do or don’t believe about quartz, here’s something you can believe: many Washingtonians love going digging for quartz crystals. And one of the best places to find them is on Denny Mountain.

Denny Mountain is a summit that's located near Snoqualmie Pass.
Ron Clausen / Wikipedia
The majestic mountain is named after the Denny Party, a group of American pioneers credited with founding Seattle. Arthur Denny oversaw the construction of the Snoqualmie Pass Road, which eventually became I-90.
Denny Mountain, particularly the Denny Creek area, is known for being a place to find quartz.
Risa Beniya / alltrails.com
In fact, the canyon off of Denny Creek is known as "Rockhound Gulch," which is one of the more well-known mineral collecting spots in Washington.

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To reach Rockhound Gulch, take the Melakwa Lakes Trail number 1014.
Leanna Liv / alltrails.com
Start on the west side of Denny Creek, cross to the east side via a large log bridge, then cross back to the west side where the trail descends a bank to a rock crossing. The trail switchbacks up a hill, then comes back close to the creek canyon.
Quartz crystals are often found in old mine tailings, pockets of soil, and even lying on the ground.
Elderberry Arts / Flickr
Whether you've been rock hunting your entire life or it's a new hobby, searching for quartz is usually a fulfilling process since the mineral is so abundant.
There are quite a few spots in Washington to search for quartz crystals, but Denny Mountain just might be the most visually stunning.
Ashley Cooper / alltrails.com
This is a vastly underrated area that is amazing to explore on a warm summer day.

Do you collect crystals? If you try your luck at Denny Creek, you might also enjoy searching for quartz crystals at the nearby Hansen Creek Trail.

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Denny Mountain, Washington 98045, USA