Hiking along any gravel bed is likely full of hidden gems or treasures waiting to be discovered. The many river gravel beds here in Montana are no exception. I have learned a thing or two from all the times I have caught myself hiking an area I frequently explore only to one day discover something entirely new just by being in a different mindset. As I hike around and explore, I ask myself, "What do you think this area looked like five thousand years ago? Fifty million years ago? How did these rocks get here? When did these rocks get here? Where did all this mud come from? How long have these trees been here? Why do some of the rocks look river tumbled and others so freshly broken? What is eroding from this hillside? Why is the color of the sand different in some areas? Why am I finding what looks like coral so far away from an ocean? Why does this patch of gravel have so much granite and 10 feet away slightly downhill the gravel is full of cherty jasper and agate? Why are the rocks so small right here yet over there they are 50-pound boulders? ...and so on..." Then, I call my good buddy @TheoKellison and ask him for all the answers. Haha just kidding. Some of the questions you will know the answers to, however, thinking of them puts you into the mindset you need to uncover the best treasures- whether its's a special agate, a secret scenic spot, a cool piece of driftwood, a majestic cave or an epic waterfall! It also makes you stop that extra second and perhaps notice something special you may have walked by on another occasion. The more dialed in you are to your surroundings, the more you will truly discover. So, no matter where you are, get out and explore- there are so many hidden treasures waiting for you to discover them!
Thank you for coming along on my adventure- Rock On Everyone!