Plan Your Adventure
Your Next Herkimer Mountain Adventure Awaits
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience filled with crystal hunting, immersive nature exploration, and engaging hands-on discovery activities that will leave you inspired and amazed.
Be Early, Be Ready, Dig In!
To help you have the best possible experience, we recommend planning ahead and arriving early. The gate opens at 8:30 AM. Park and check in and at 9:00 AM as we start guiding guests to the mine.
From there, you can enjoy the short walk in or wait for a UTV ride, available from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM only. If you arrive late, you may need to wait in the parking area until a guide is available to return and assist you. If you think you may be running late, please call us by 8:00 or as soon as you can, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Finders Keepers For Real!
Every crystal you uncover during your adventures is yours to keep—no matter how rare or valuable they may be. From tiny treasures that sparkle in the sunlight to once-in-a-lifetime finds that seem almost magical, if you dig it up, you take it home!
Each discovery adds to your collection and holds the promise of unique stories and memories, making your journey even more rewarding. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt and the joy of bringing a piece of nature’s beauty back with you!
What Makes Herkimer Diamonds So Special?
Herkimer Diamonds aren’t actually diamonds—but they’re just as dazzling. These unique double-terminated quartz crystals are found only in Herkimer County, New York, and are prized for their incredible clarity, natural faceting, and raw beauty. Each crystal forms naturally with 18 facets and sharp terminations, requiring no cutting or polishing to shine.
Unlike other quartz, Herkimer Diamonds formed over 500 million years ago in ancient dolostone under unique geological conditions, giving them their signature brilliance and energy. Because of their age, clarity, and rarity, they’re not just pretty—they’re powerful and often used in jewelry, healing practices, and even scientific research.
Whether you’re a collector, crystal enthusiast, or just love beautiful things from nature, Herkimer Diamonds are truly one-of-a-kind treasures.
What To Know Before You Go
This is real, hands-on fun! Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, along with sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Curiosity is a must. Herkimer Mountain is wild and beautiful, so come prepared. Bring insect repellent, or grab some at check-in. We dig rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress accordingly—a little mud only adds to the adventure! Speaking of mud and adventure, you’ll need a 4 wheel or all wheel drive vehicle to access the mine as it can be a muddy rough adventure of a ride!
We recommend booking ahead to ensure a smooth, personalized experience. When you arrive, check in at our cozy, rustic cabin—part gear stop, part general store, and full of heart. It’s where you’ll pick up your equipment, browse fun merchandise, and soak up the excitement before heading out to the dig.
Our friendly team will greet you with a smile, share expert tips, and help you find your perfect spot—whether you’re visiting with your family, your partner, or on your own. This is more than just a dig—it’s a shared adventure. Be kind, stay curious, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. You’re not just uncovering crystals—you’re making memories to treasure.
Essential Gear for Your Herkimer Diamond Adventure Dig
Preparing for your visit to Herkimer Mountain Mine is crucial for a successful digging adventure. Bring along essential tools and supplies to maximize your experience and ensure comfort throughout the day. If you run out of snacks or sunscreen, or forgot a digging tool, you can find those items to purchase or rent and more in our cabin store that will help make your day more enjoyable. Remember, the more prepared you are, the more enjoyable your Herkimer Diamond hunting will be!
Bug Spray or Insect Repellent
The mountain is wild and wonderful, but the bugs can be too! Bring your favorite or pick some up at the cabin store.
Sun Protection
A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen go a long way under the open sky. The mountain sun can be stronger than it seems.
Work Gloves
Protect your hands while you dig—sturdy gloves make a big difference for both comfort and safety.
Rain Gear
A light rain jacket or poncho is a great idea, just in case. We’ve got a few available for purchase if the skies surprise you.
Water. Water. Water!
Stay hydrated! Bring plenty of water to keep your energy up throughout the day.
Snacks or a Picnic Lunch
Fuel your adventure with something delicious. You’re welcome to enjoy your meal at our shaded picnic tables with a view of the forest.
Recommended Tools
Herkimer Mountain features multiple styles of digging, most of which are nestled in the beautiful woods. You will have the option to dig through an alluvial layer for exposed pockets or do some hard rock mining as ledge is more exposed. This means you should be prepared to utilize a variety of tools.
Large & Small Shovels
Sledge Hammer Light & Heavy
Paleo Pick/Pick Mattock
Pry Bar
Chisels
Long Screw Driver
Stay a While and Enjoy the Area.
After your day of collecting crystals we recommend some local places to clean up, grab some food and get some good rest to come back the next day for more!
There is something special coming to Herkimer Mountain where you can stay and enjoy all that this beautiful property has to share! Keep watching this site for the big announcements!
Microtel Inn & Suites
Welcome to the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham in Johnstown, situated at the base of the Adirondack Mountains and close to Johnson Hall State Historic Site. Whether you’re staying for a single night or a longer visit, they provide cozy accommodations at an excellent rate.
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Holiday Inn Johnstown-Gloversville
The Holiday Inn Johnstown – Gloversville Hotel is nestled in the center of the Adirondack Mountains, a stunning range of blue and green peaks in Northeastern New York. They are above the typical hotels in Johnstown, as they are the only full-service hotel in the area.
FAQs
What kind of vehicle do I need?
We recommend a 4-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle. The access road is an unpaved dirt road that can get muddy and rough. Low-profile cars are not recommended. Please park only in the designated parking areas on the left.
How far is the dig site from the parking area?
The mine is about three-quarters of a football field from the parking area. You can enjoy the short walk in or ride in our UTV, which runs from 9:00 to 10:00 AM and from 4:00 to 5:00 PM only.
What is the terrain like?
The dig site sits in a forested area with mostly flat trails, but the ground in the dig areas is uneven and rocky. Closed-toe shoes are required, and boots are recommended. Please stay on open trails and within designated dig areas only.
Can I rent tools at the mine?
Yes. A bucket kit with a hammer, chisel, trowel, rake, and screwdriver is $15 for the day and includes free eye protection. Sifters and short shovels are $5 each, and pry bars are $8. You can call ahead to reserve tools. Power tools of any kind are not permitted.
Do you dig in the rain?
Yes! We dig rain or shine, so please dress for the weather. Pop-up canopies are permitted. Reservations cannot be changed due to rain. If the mine owners cancel a dig day because of extreme weather, you may rebook or receive a refund.
Do I get to keep what I find?
Yes. Every crystal you dig up is yours to take home, from small, water-clear points to large skeletels. There are no extra fees for what you find.
Can I buy food or supplies on site?
Our cabin store sells sunscreen, bug spray, rain ponchos, and other conveniences for your dig day. We also rent digging tools. You’re welcome to bring a picnic lunch and use our picnic tables. No glass is allowed in the dig areas, and there is no trash disposal on site, so please pack out everything you bring in.
Are dogs or pets allowed?
No. For insurance reasons, pets are not permitted on the property. Licensed service animals are welcome.
Are there restrooms on site?
A porta-potty is available on site for your use. We are completely off-grid.
Don’t Miss Out on This One-of-a-Kind Adventure!
Booking your visit to Herkimer Mountain ensures you a seamless, memorable experience filled with discovery, connection, and the thrill of unearthing your own timeless crystals. With expert guides, breathtaking surroundings, and all the gear you need, your adventure awaits. Secure your spot today and create memories that will sparkle for a lifetime.
