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Tools for the Staurolite Scout
Field Trip Tips — after the fact
Once again, I forgot and left the sunscreen at home. I missed the turn and drove to the next town before I realized my oversight. And my skin is clearing nicely from the poison ivy rash.
Ahh, the joy of rockhounding along the banks of the Mississippi.
If you’re in the same boat, there’s no need to stay tied to the dock. This may be the defining moment in the adventure of screening for staurolite crystals.
When it comes to prospecting for staurolite crosses, chances are your local rock shop won’t carry the most important item. I’m not referring to UV lamps, Geiger counters, rock hammers, or pry bars. It’s the screen box.
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Screening for staurolite
crystals with “the screen”.
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It’s a special treat to see the vast array of improvised tools rockhounders bring to the riverbank. Some of this is due to economy, some to misunderstanding. In most cases it’s just a matter of novice inexperience.
There also is a special pleasure in using tools that add to success. Why, sometimes the right tool will even make the musky Mississippi odor seem royal.
The keys to a successful staurolite hunt are to know what you’re looking for and to use tools matched to the task. Both keys are addressed here. Read on…
Directions to The Blanchard Hydro-dam
Mineral collecting is a wonderful pastime enjoyed by millions of people all around the world. Anyone can join in. Here's where to find staurolite crystals in Minnesota…
In Morrison County, Minnesota, staurolite crystals can be found on both the east and west bank of the Mississippi River. The focal point of this site is the Blanchard hydroelectric dam, which forms the infamous Zebulon Pike Lake. More about Mr. Pike later.
East Bank Access:
- Follow U.S. Highway 10 north to the town of Royalton.
- At the stoplight, turn left (West) onto Morrison County Road #26.
- Travel approximately 2 miles to the intersection of Morrison County Road #258/Hilton.
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View of dam from east riverbank
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- Follow #258/Hilton approximately 2.5 miles to the intersection of 68th Street.
- Turn left (West) on 68th Street. It’s a dirt road marked with a Dead End sign.
- Hint: DO NOT take the road to the Blanchard Hydro Electric Station #7250
- The end of the road will be clearly marked with a sign identifying it as the Blanchard Shore Fishing Access.
- Park next to the granite boulders. Be courteous and do not block the canoe/boat launch trail on the left.
- Walk down the canoe/boat launch trail to the riverbank being mindful of poison ivy and fisherpersons.
West Bank Access:
- Follow U.S. Highway 10 north to the town of Royalton.
- At the stoplight, turn left (West) onto Morrison County Road #26.
- Travel approximately 4 miles to the intersection of highway #52/Great River Road – old #224.
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View of rock on west riverbank.
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- Hint: You’ll know you’re getting close when you cross the river.
- Turn Right (North) unto #52/Great River Road – old #224.
- Travel approximately 2.2 miles.
- Hint #2: A good indicator you’re getting close is the sight of power lines on the right.
- Turn right immediately after crossing the abandoned rail line.
- Follow the dirt road for approximately ¼ mile to the parking area.
- Walk down the trail to the riverbank.
- Breathe in and enjoy the musky Mississippi aromas.
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since July, 2006.