Garnet Ledge
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Famous garnet locality near the mouth of the Stikine River north of Wrangell. Almandine garnet crystals range from tiny to 1.5 inches in diameter with perfect crystal faces. Mined since the 1860s. Now owned by local Boy Scouts. US Forest Service maintains a public use cabin nearby. Garnet sellers greet cruise ship and ferry passengers in Wrangell.
🪨 What You Can Find Here
Garnets
Deep red almandine garnets are found in many states. Idaho's star garnets are among the rarest in the world.
Also found at:
📍 Nearby Locations in Alaska
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Alaska Gold Panning (Nome Area)
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Historic gold beaches of Nome. Recreational gold panning on public beaches. Gold, garnets, and occasional jade.
Alaska Jade Beds (Kobuk River)
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⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Garnet Ledge with the right equipment.
Rock Hammer
The most essential rockhounding tool. Choose a hammer with both a flat striking face and a pointed pick end.
Typical: $25-45
Safety Glasses
Mandatory protective gear. Rock chips fly unpredictably when hammering.
Typical: $10-20
Chisel Set
Cold chisels in 3-4 sizes for precise extraction from matrix rock.
Typical: $15-30
Geologist's Pick
A heavier crack hammer for splitting hard rock. Essential for hard rock mining areas.
Typical: $35-60
Sifting Screen
Stackable mesh screens for sifting gravel and dirt. Essential for gem and fossil hunting.
Typical: $20-40
UV Flashlight
Long-wave UV light for finding fluorescent minerals and Yooperlites.
Typical: $15-35