The best time for collecting at Crystal Hill is in the late fall through spring. In spite of the elevation, about 5,200 feet, temperatures are too high for most daytime work during the summer.

Camping at the site is permitted but there is no wood or water. Winter temperatures can be severe and access may be barred during periods of heavy snow on the passes to the north and south.

Note that the E-W fence that passes over the crest of the hill appears to separate public from private property. Do not trespass to the North.
The main collecting areas are well defined by the numerous pits and rubble piles left by diggers over the years. The dirt and talus on the slopes of the hill contain many crystals weathered from the upper outcrops that may be recovered by sifting the soil and small rocks. The numerous cavities and pockets along veins contain the best crystals but are hard to find and require a great deal of effort to excavate. Open cavities in the silicified rocks along the base of the upper outcrops under the crest of the hill illustrate the nature of the crystallization.

Tools needed include heavy bars, sledges and wedges with the usual assortment of smaller implements for working pockets. Be sure to bring a whisk broom and a small shovel for moving surface dirt from outcrops. And please, pack it out! This location is very clean with hardly a cigarette butt or gum wrapper noted. Let’s keep it that way.