Anchorage

You’re going to have an amazing trip, and the best part is that the local glaciers have already done the heavy lifting for you by crushing and washing cool rocks down into the nearby riverbeds and public beaches. Your top targets around Anchorage are Nephrite Jade (the state gem), which looks like smooth, dark spinach-green chunks with a waxy texture when wet, and Jasper, which comes in beautiful, bright reds and yellows. You should also keep an eye out for a local favorite called "Flower Stone," a dark volcanic rock covered in white crystal patterns that look exactly like tiny daisies. The best spots to explore are Point Woronzof Beach right in Anchorage for easy beachcombing, or the gravel bars along the Matanuska River about an hour north of town if you want a true shot at finding wild jade. Just keep a close eye on the water if you are hunting near the ocean—the local tides up here rise incredibly fast! Have a blast and pack an extra bag for your treasures. 🏔️💎