AGATES FOUND ALONG STREAMS

The unique beauty and originality of each stone has made the world famous Montana and Yellowstone moss agate a very treasured gem.

Eastern Montana is an excellent place to search for some of these rocks, which are used in a variety of jewelry, ranging from rings and belt buckles to bob ties. Or the polished stones can just be admired as they are.

The river and stream beds of Dawson County as well as most of eastern Montana provide many great places to hunt agates.

Guided boat tours on the Yellowstone River are designed for agate hunters. Information on the tours is available through the Glendive Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture located on Merrill Avenue.

The Intake diversion dam, located on Highway 16 approximately 17 miles north of Glendive, is considered one of the finest places in the county for agates.

The best time to hunt for agates is early in the spring after the ice breakup on the Yellowstone River. Agate hunting continues to be good until fall.

On the outside, agates are snake-skin rough gray, tan, or brownish-colored rocks, often shaped like a potato.

The only equipment needed for hunting agates is a rock hammer for digging, a bucket or bag for carrying the stones, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

Remember to ask permission of the land owners before hunting for agates on private property.