“ We ’ re not the first rockhounds hunting for these rocks ,” Aaron postured . “ There is evidence everywhere . Ancestors point us in the right direction ,” he said .
Rockhounds-hounding : Rockhounds swap notes atop a mesa on the o6 .
driving slowly on rough , unpaved ranch roads in a dusty caravan of excited rockhounds across land that ’ s seen few human visitors during the past century and a half . It ’ s a place to really get lost in . The only recognizable landmarks are distant landforms like Mitre Peak , the Glass Mountains , or Mount Locke on a clear day .
Other than the dirt road and occasional fence line , things look the same now as they did hundreds of years ago . The land bears undeniable signs of indigenous activity ; flakes of worked flint and other lithic scatters are hints of past inhabitants .
“ We ’ re not the first rockhounds hunting for these rocks ,” Aaron postured . “ There is evidence everywhere . Ancestors point us in the right direction ,” he said .
The hiking can be quite challenging for those who are game . A mesa top offers incredible views of distant mountains and a creek in the valley far below . Fresh mountain air and the privilege to access this private land create a bonding experience . But the campfires during the overnight trips really bring folks together .
The camping trips feature decadent menus that leave tired hikers happy and satisfied , spinning rockhound yarns around the campfire , and stargazing until they can ’ t stay awake any longer . The campsite is located at one of the historic round-up sites , and guests might be surprised to find plumbed restrooms and a fully equipped cowboy kitchen . The restful evenings are not unlike what the cowboys must have experienced after a long day gathering cattle on the range , grateful for a well-stocked chuckwagon , comfy bedroll and crisp night air .
Rockhounding and guided hikes signal a new era of ecotourism on the Kokernot . After dedicating a decade to ranch endeavors , James is hopeful about where Take-A-Hike is going . “ I ’ m still excited to be here ,” he said .
To find out more about hiking , camping , and rockhounding on the Kokernot o6 , visit TakeAHikeTexas . com . To see more examples of cut and polished o6 agates , visit the Texas Rockhounds Facebook page .
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