Did you know that Minnesota has an official state gemstone? It's not a sparkling diamond, sapphire, or emerald, but it has a beauty all its own. Not only that, but it's abundant throughout the Land of 10,000 Lakes — especially in areas near the North Shore. Have you guessed what it is yet?

If you've lived in Minnesota for a while, you probably knew right away that we're talking about Lake Superior agates. These beautiful, banded rocks formed from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. They get their distinct reddish-orange color from the iron deposits prevalent throughout northern Minnesota. When polished, they are absolutely beautiful as jewelry, artwork, or simply decorations.

Precious though they are, you do not have to look hard to find an agate. Instead of hunting along riverbeds and railroad tracks for these gemstones, there is a much easier way. Head up to Cloquet, Minnesota, to search the rock piles at Get Pickin. There, you're likely to find plenty of agates — and a whole lot more. Keep reading about how you can go crystal mining in Minnesota at this unique attraction!

Get Pickin is one of the best places in Minnesota to find Lake Superior agates.

Instead of searching over-picked beaches for agates, this unique attraction brings the rocks to you!

Here's how it works: the owners hire dump trucks to bring in large shipments of rocks used in construction sites and other applications.

Then, visitors are allowed to come and search the piles! In 2022, for $15, you gain access to the piles and a 5-by-8.5-inch bag to fill and take home.

Make sure you plan your visit accordingly. Get Pickin is open in spring through early fall, and only Friday through Monday during those months. Appointments are required, so check their website before you head out!

Special events throughout the season make it easy to learn more about agates.

You can often buy jewelry and other decorative items, as well as agate guidebooks.

But of course, the most fun thing you can do at Get Pickin is hunt for agates! This spot is popular with rock hounds and families looking for a fun outdoor activity.

Visitors are encouraged to bring rakes, shovels and other tools they make like to use.

Don't forget to bring a spray bottle with water to clean off your finds. You're bound to have quite the collection by the end.

These beautifully banded stones are lovely in a garden, on a shelf, or fashioned into wearable jewelry.

No matter what you intend to use them for, you're likely to find at least one agate when you visit Get Pickin!

Get Pickin visitors find many other types of rocks, too! Quartz, Jasper, and even fossils have all been found here!

Ever been to Get Pickin? For more information about this awesome attraction, check out their website and Facebook page. And if you want to make a day in Cloquet, plan on having lunch at the town's old-fashioned drive-in.