Secrets in the Stone: Rocks and Gems of the Uncompahgre Valley
Ready to discover the hidden treasures buried right beneath your feet? Join guest speaker Don Rodarte and the Uncompahgre Treasure Club for a fascinating, hands-on evening exploring the spectacular rocks and gems of the Uncompahgre Valley!
About this Event
Unearth the hidden treasures right beneath your feet! Join guest speaker Don Rodarte and the experts from the Uncompahgre Treasure Club for a fascinating evening exploring the dazzling world of geology, rocks, and minerals.
The San Juan region is a geological wonderland, and this hands-on presentation will introduce you to the stunning gems, local crystals, and unique rock formations that make Colorado a haven for rockhounds. Whether you are a curious beginner, a backyard collector, or a family looking for a fun weekend hobby, you will learn how to identify local treasures and get insider tips on where to look on your next outdoor adventure.
The Details
- Date: Friday, July 10th
- Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Location: Ridgway State Park Visitor Center
- Cost: FREE (Park pass required for entry)
What to Expect
From glowing minerals to ancient formations, step into the world of geology with local experts.
- Geology Unlocked: Learn how the rugged mountains and canyons around us formed and what makes our local rock layers so rich with treasures.
- Specimen Display: Check out a spectacular showcase of rare rocks, crystals, and gemstones collected right here in Western Colorado.
- Rockhound 101: Get professional advice from the Uncompahgre Treasure Club on how to start your own collection, use basic tools, and hunt for rocks responsibly.
Location
Related Events
Jul
11
Grip it & Rip it: Raptor Talons and Tails
Jul 11, 2026 · 3:00pm
Ridgway State Park
Ever wonder how a hawk survives a 100 mph dive or why an owl can snatch a mouse in total silence? Join the Black Canyon Audubon Society (BCAS) at Ridgway State Park for a dive into the high-performance engineering of our local raptors. From the "deadly handshake" of a Great Horned Owl to the aerodynamic rudders that are raptor tails, we’re breaking down the lethal beauty of these sky-bound hunters.
Jul
12
Untamed: Mustangs in Spring Creek Basin
Jul 12, 2026 · 1:00am
Ridgway State Park
Ready to hear the thunder of hooves and meet the true icons of the American West? Dust off your boots and join author and wild horse partner TJ Holmes at the Visitor Center for a thrilling look into the untamed world of the Spring Creek Basin mustangs! You'll get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes pass into real horse family dramas, fierce stallion rivalries, and the incredible stories of survival unfolding right in our Colorado backyard.
Jul
18
"Starlit Trails" Nature Hike at Ridgway State Park!
Jul 18, 2026 · 1:30am
Ridgway State Park
Experience the magic of twilight and the wonder of the night sky in one unique event! Join us on July 17th for "Starlit Trails," a guided stargazing program combining an easy hike with an educational astronomy talk.
Explore S’more
Get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your next vehicle registration to create sweet memories. The pass gives you entry to all state parks and supports wildlife conservation.