Out My Backdoor

- Guess What Google’S 3D Maps Just Unveiled Right Outside My Backdoor?

A vast stretch of BLM land, full of promise and adventure! Can you believe I hadn’t given it much thought until now? My mind usually drifts toward those remote, mysterious outcrops during my geological explorations. Yet, here lies a little treasure trove, often overlooked—shale buttes flanking a small anticline, just next to my cozy abode.

With all the geological history here, I figured those erosion-resistant rocks would have a story or two to tell. Who knows what secrets are hidden there? Maybe opal, chalcedony, agate, chert, or even silicified fossils or wood are waiting to be discovered. Not to mention shale holding septarian nodules with fossil ammonites and baculites containing aragonite, barite, and calcite crystals.

And the bonus? Some of these beauties might just light up with fluorescence, thanks to the Eocene volcanic ash that once blanketed this area, enriching it with silica and trace elements.

Despite the weekly snow days and the mix of 50-degree weather with bright blue skies, winter seems to be bidding adieu. It’s not quite spring yet, and the backcountry is still too messy, but my boots are itching for an adventure. So, with tomorrow’s winter storm looming and today’s windless 60-degree weather, it’s the perfect time to step out the back door!

Five minutes later, I’m strolling through the vast BLM land. The antelope and chukar announce my intrusion. A symphony of silence surrounds me—life is sweet.

- A Glance Back At My Footsteps

Twenty minutes later, I’m on top of the bluff.

- What A Stunning View!

In the distance, Casper Mountain stands tall, a snowy giant rising 3,000 feet above me. To the right, the resilient, tree-covered rocks of an anticline soar 600 feet, while the river meanders gracefully 300 feet below.

But hold up! Check out all those rocks scattered around! We’re talking about half a dozen different kinds of Precambrian rock types: jasperized banded iron, colorful banded and brecciated quartzite, chert, jasper, chalcedony, petrified wood, and a sprinkle of septarian nodules.

- See Anything Interesting Here?

Guess what? I’ve driven 20 to 30 miles in the past to find similar material, often picked over by every rockhound headed west since the late 1800s. And here, right in my backyard, lies an almost pristine locale.

I’m not the first one here. Paleo-man surely roamed these lands, and the Oregon Trail ran west of here. Some agatized stuff bears the marks of a rock hammer. But that’s ancient history; a patina has developed on the quartz chips left behind by those early rockhounds. What was once discarded is now a cherished piece of history.

On our way, my companion uncovers some chalcedony. Back home, I decide to check its fluorescence.

- Transforming Under Long Wave From Orange And Blue To Yellow And Aqua Under Mid Wave

- A Vibrant Green Under Short Wave, And An Absolute Spectacle Under Full Wave

Hold onto your hats, folks! Five distinct colors—orange, yellow, blue, aqua, and green under full wave. Trust me, these images do little justice to the sheer beauty of this rock. It’s easily the most spectacular piece of color-changing wonder I’ve ever laid eyes on! It can stand toe to toe with my best specimens from around the world.

Other finds include a green-glowing chalcedony, a piece of silicified wood radiating a bright pumpkin orange glow, Precambrian wonders glowing in shades from moderately bright yellow-orange to dull red, and a dull blue-glowing olivine-rich pebble. Some lichens attached to the rocks also glow. Not a bad combination!

What a day it’s been! I discovered this almost private haven for a quick retreat into solitude and adventure.

- A Hidden Treasure, Right Outside The Backdoor

In a month, when wildflowers bloom and newborn wildlife graces the landscape, I’ll make my way back. Then, several months later, when the sun’s scorching wrath is upon us, I’ll visit at night. I’ll savor the cool air, marvel at the stars, and explore new glowing wonders under the enchanting light of ultraviolet beams.

Cheers to a splendid day filled with unexpected treasures and the promise of more adventures to come! ✨

Cheers,
D 🪨🔥