Have you ever picked up a rock while hiking and wondered what it was? On Saturday January 6th, bring that geologic discover and curiosity down to the Western Museum of Mining & Industry for a day of geologic exploration! Try your hand with “Keep What You Find Gold Panning” and take part in some hands-on mineral identification. Join WMMI, the Florissant Fossil Beds, the Pebble Pups, Gold Prospectors of Colorado, Richard Sweeney, and more for a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Geologic processes have shaped the Pikes Peak region and have left clues behind in those very rocks. Minerals are the building blocks of rocks, and rocks are divided into three basic types: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Mineral deposits supply many of the raw materials that sustain and enable the development of societies. Also the study of mineral deposits is one of the most fascinating fields in geology. Geology is the branch of science that studies the earth. In fact, geologist (people who study geology) are also known as earth scientists. The efforts of geologists benefit mankind in many ways by making human existence safer and easier. There are numerous sub disciplines of geology, including sedimentalogists, geochemists, geophysicists, volcanologists, mineralogists, and paleontologists.

The event will take place between 10:00am and 3:00pm and is included in normal museum admission prices.