Embedded Files
Orogrande is a small town south of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The Jarilla Mountains Lie just above the town and play host to many abandoned mines, some active mines, and surprisingly there were several new claims staked out this year.
Entrance to the collection area's is either at the North end of town, or by the radio towers a mile or two North on Hwy 54.
We went in at the radio towers and the dirt road is well maintained up to a point where you either park and walk, or if you have a high clearance (preferably 4x4) vehicle, you can keep on going. I was surprised to see so many people out there, pickups and 4 wheelers all over the place, probably a dozen or so different groups there on Saturday.
Most of the mines there have been abandoned and re-claimed, or ‘gated’ to keep people out, but allow bats and other creature’s access, but there are some shafts that have not been sealed off or gated, so caution is advised.
Those who went had a great time exploring and collecting various specimens and cutting rough.
We found Chrisocola, Hematite, Jet, Pyrite, Green and Brown Garnets, Jasper, Granite, Drusie, a couple of flecks of Gold on matrix, and a heap ton of leaverite.
We stayed in Alamogordo at the White Sands Motel, a nice, clean and comfortable motel, and had dinner at Misu Sushi and was floored by the quality of the food. Outstanding sushi in the middle of the desert.
We headed back to Lubbock by way of Roswell and stopped in for the Chapparell Rockhound Gem and Mineral Show. Nice show, good dealers and good displays from around the region.
Page updated
Report abuse