Looking for a magical day in the mountains?
Join us in for a short road trip from Fort Smith to beautiful Mt. Ida, nestled in the Ouachita National Forest, and unearth your very own natural quartz crystals at the famous Crystal Vista trailhead – a former mine turned public treasure site!
Hosted by crystal enthusiasts
Madina The Artist https://www.instagram.com/madinatheartist
and Denisha of Sacred Treasure https://www.instagram.com/sacred_treasurellc
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Scenic hike to the old crystal mine (0.8 mi, moderate)
- Free quartz crystal collecting – keep what you find!
- Bring your own tools (hand tools only)/ We will have extras
- Great outdoor fun – perfect for families, friends & rockhounds!
WHEN & WHERE:
Trip from Fort Smith to Crystal Vista Trailhead in Mt. Ida
No Permit Required
10am - 12pm departure from Sacred Treasure Holistic Oasis, Fort Smith
12pm - 4pm arrival and hike the trailhead and crystal digging
4pm - 6pm departure from Crystal Vista back to Fort Smith
Mt Ida The Quartz Crystal Capital of the World
Mount Ida, located in Montgomery County, Arkansas, lies in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, a region famous for some of the clearest and highest-quality quartz crystals in the world.
Geological Origins
The quartz crystals of Mount Ida formed over 300 million years ago, during tectonic activity that compressed sandstone and shale deep in the Earth.
Hot silica-rich fluids filled cracks in the rock and cooled slowly over time, allowing crystals to form undisturbed—some reaching several feet long.
These formations are primarily found in the Crystal Mountain Sandstone Formation, stretching through western Arkansas.
TIPS TO PREPARE:
- Bring gloves, digging tools, sunscreen, and water
- Wear sturdy shoes – trail has moderate incline
- Pack out all trash to keep our forest beautiful
