Another great field trip to Red Top on Oct. 6th. We had 5 vehicles and 9 members. It snowed up there the day/night before, but otherwise conditions were very good with sunshine and beautiful views. Road conditions were excellent. We hit the snow level driving in at 4200 ft. Dig site is at 4500 ft, but snow depth was only about 1-3 inches. (Note that the road going in peaks at 4800 feet.) Luckily we were able to sweep aside the snow and get good access to soft dirt in the dig holes. Soil in the dig holes was not wet, but as the snow was melting it was tough not getting a little muddy from around the hole, and extra care had to be taken when walking on the slushy slope. It was wise to have a hood or big hat as the snow melted off the trees in gobs and occasionally free falling to our heads and backs. All that said, I thought it was well worth the trip as we turned up a lot of agate and jasper material to keep tumblers busy for awhile this winter.
Trip Report submitted by Roger Danneman CMS Field Trip Leader.