The Virgin Valley Caldera: May 31-June 2, 2024

Join Alison on a weekend exploration of the Virgin Valley Caldera within the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge on the Oregon/Nevada border.

The Virgin Valley is the remnant of a massive volcanic implosion in which petrified wood, opal, obsidian, carnelian, and other fabulous rocks and minerals can be found. Come learn about hotspot volcanism, the formation of volcanic glasses and the fossilization of wood as we hike around the cliffs and badlands of this long-ago disaster.

We'll camp both nights at the Virgin Valley Warm Spring, which has an awesome natural pool. Alison and her sous chef will prepare delicious camp dinners each night.

Location: 41.852925, -119.001869

Schedule: The group will meet in Denio Junction, Nevada, on the morning of Friday, May 31st, 2024. The group will caravan to the Virgin Valley where we will camp for 2 nights. Participants can expect to head home midday Sunday, June 2nd.

Trip participants should be adults 18 and older who enjoy dirt road driving, spending a day on their feet out in the elements and are down to camp in all kinds of weather. All genders and vehicle types welcome. Access to toilets and showers is limited.

Virgin Valley weather: Trip runs rain or shine! Average early June high is 71°F and a overnight low of 40°F. The chance that it could rain on this trip is 25%. Wild weather is always possible.

Cancellation policy: A full refund will be given if a participant cancels 3 weeks or more before the start date of the trip. Cancellation made within the 3 week window closer to the trip will be given full credit towards a future trip, but no refunds will be made. Please consider this before signing up. No exceptions.

Furthermore, Alison reserves the right to postpone and cancel trips in the event of wildfires, wildfire smoke, severe storms, flooding, earthquakes and other natural occurrences that jeopardize group safety. In this scenario, all trip members will be given full credit towards a future trip.

Alison is a licensed and bonded outfitter guide. This trip is permitted by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service. Rock collection limits set by USFWS and federal laws regarding artifacts are strictly adhered to.