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Glitter Mountain: A Sparkling Selenite Mine

Discover Glitter Mountain: A sparkling Arizona mine where you can explore and collect unique selenite crystals. A memorable adventure for all ages!

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Glitter Mountain, near Littlefield, Arizona, is a unique destination where visitors can explore and collect selenite crystals. This old gypsum mine shimmers in the sun, offering a memorable experience for rock enthusiasts and families alike.

A brief summary to Glitter Mountain

  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is no shade and the desert sun can be intense.
  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven and rocky terrain.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Bring cash or use Venmo/PayPal to pay for any selenite crystals you take home.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Glitter Mountain from St. George, Utah, take exit 2 from I-15 South and head east on UT-7 for 10 miles to the Warner Valley Road exit. Turn right onto the dirt frontage road. Continue south for approximately 3 miles, then stay left at the fork and continue 1 mile to another fork. Turn right, cross the dry wash, and continue south for 0.7 miles to another fork. Stay left onto Sunshine Trail Rd and continue for 1 mile; Glitter Mountain will be on the right. Be aware that the final stretch involves driving on a dirt road that can be rough. There is no fee to enter the area, but payment is requested for any selenite crystals collected, prices vary depending on the amount.

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Discover more about Glitter Mountain

Glitter Mountain, also known as the Old Gypsum Crystal Mine or Sparkle Mountain, is a distinctive geological site located a short drive from St. George, Utah, just across the Arizona border. This isn't a mountain in the traditional sense but rather a mound-like area and an open-pit mine where selenite, a crystalline form of gypsum, is abundant. The area gets its name from the countless selenite crystals that cover the ground, creating a shimmering, glittery effect in the sunlight. For those interested in geology, Glitter Mountain offers a chance to witness and collect selenite crystals, formed approximately 240 million years ago during the Triassic period within the Moenkopi Formation. During this time, a vast basin covered southern Utah and northern Arizona, leading to the deposition of minerals in an evaporative environment. Today, Glitter Mountain is an active mining claim managed by Feller Stone, who sells the selenite as “Utah Ice”. Visitors are welcome to explore the area and collect crystals for a small fee, payable via Venmo or PayPal. While the owners prefer visitors stay out of the pit for safety reasons, there are plenty of crystals to be found on the surrounding ground. When visiting, it's important to bring water, especially during hotter months, as there is no shade. Also, be aware that the road leading to the site includes a dirt road, which can be rough. Despite the rugged conditions, Glitter Mountain remains a popular destination for families and geology enthusiasts seeking a unique and sparkling adventure.

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