About Jade Mountains, Alaska

The Jade Mountains is a popular place to go jade-hunting. There are large deposits of them in the Jade Mountains, within the Brooks Range in the northwestern part of Alaska. The area is remote and surrounded by forests, rivers, and creeks, making it a unique spot for rockhounding. There are strict rules guiding rockhounding in this area, but with proper research, and if you can manage the situations in the area, it is a great experience rockhounding here.

Jade is recognized as the source of Alaska's state gem, and the Jade Mountains offer a unique opportunity for collectors, hobbyists, and adventurers to explore one of the richest jade deposits in North America. Despite the challenges, the Jade Mountains offer a truly rewarding rockhounding experience.

What Can Be Found in the Jade Mountains

Jade: You will definitely find large deposits of Jade in the mountains, and the rivers or valleys surrounding it. Jade is formed from two silicate minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite. Jade forms when metamorphic rocks undergo low-temperature and high-pressure transformation, converting these two minerals into a smooth and shiny greenish gem, popularly known today as Jade. It is used in making tools such as axes or hoes, and is also used for gems and decorative materials. These smooth, dark green gems are said to have spiritual significance in bringing harmony and balance.
Nephrite: Closely related to Jade and is a common gemstone you will find here. They are composed of calcium and magnesium silicate. Nephrite takes up a range of colors from creamy to green, but is commonly seen in green.
Quartz: While in the Jade Mountains, look out for quartz crystals. Alongside jade and nephrite, quartz crystals are another common find in the area.

Jade

Nephrite

Quartz

Rockhounding Locations in Jade Mountains

Jade is the popular gem you will find in this area, but you can also find deposits of Nephrite, Quartz, and Serpentine.

Kobuk River: This is the largest river 200 miles from Brooks Range. This river is the primary source of smooth looking jade. Close to the river is the Kobuk Valley National park managed by the National Park Service. Visitors rarely visit because the roads leading here are not easily accessible, plus the unfair weather conditions. But if you do visit, you can get yourself beautiful Jade souvenir from the park or local stores.
Jade creek: This is a 12 mile stream in the Kobuk National Valley flowing directly into the Kobuk River. You can find deposits of Jade in this stream, and access the mountains from here.
Shungnak: The Shungnak stream around the Jade mountains is also another location to find deposits of Jade. The Shungnak village is historically tied to jade cutting and trading.

NB: There is a jade mountain in the Seward Peninsula with an entire mountain of jade, but it is not accessible to the public.

Location of Jade Mountains

This is a really remote area, and driving down here is not possible as the roads are not accessible , and the weather conditions are not usually fair. However, they are regularly available flights to take visitors down to the park. Either from Anchorage or from Fairbanks to Bettles. Then they fly to the park with authorised air taxis. Get further directions here.

Kobuk River

Jade Creek

Shungnak

Recommended Gear and Tips

Rockhounding Tips

Obey the Law: Before going to rockhound in the Jade Mountains, there are strict laws you have to take note of. You have to check in with the Kobuk National Valley park for permission to rockhound or visit the rivers and creeks.
Research: Before going to the mountains, do an extensive research on how to get there, Either by flight or boat. You might also want to find out about guided tours to the local areas shops where you can buy jade souvenirs. Ask questions about where exactly to find jades and what the laws are surrounding this places.
Stay Safe: The area is really remote, therefore you have to prioritise your safety. The terrains are really rought, so come with thee right gear to help you navigate smoothly.
Timing: You need to know the best time to visit the area. Know if it is a good weather condition, and if the park is open to visitors.

Recommended Gear

Chisel and hammer: Jade usually hide in rocks and crevices. However, before using them, ensure you have obtained permission to collect rocks from this spot.
Comfortable Wears: The area is really rough. Therefore, it is important to go with comfortable wears to help you navigate the rough terrains. Gloves, boots, and protective clothes will come in handy in these areas.
Field guide: A field guide will come in handy to help you easily identify jades, nephrites, and other gemstones you might find.
First aid kit: Carry along a portable first aird kit, which will help you manage little for cuts and scrapes.
Backpack: Carry along a bag to pack in your other gears, and store your collections of jades.

Gloves

Find the best gloves for all your gem hunting adventures.

Chisel

Essential tools for extracting gems from rocks and crevices.

First Aid Kits

Find the best first aid kits for all your rockhounding adventures.

Final Thoughts

The Jade Mountains in Alaska are a dream destination for rockhounds and gemstone enthusiasts. You get to explore and learn about the rich deposits of jade and nephrites.

Though it is a challenging place to visit due to its remote location and strict regulations, with preparation and research, rockhounding here is a truly rewarding experience.

Other Sites to Visit in Alaska

While the Jade Mountains is where you can find jades and nephrites, Alaska boasts of being the largest gold deposit, and here are other sites where you can explore gold.