Coming Spring of 2026

Embark on an extraordinary day adventure to Sierra Aguja, also known as Needle Peak, just seven miles south of Terlingua, Texas. This "Hidden Gem" tour offers a rare opportunity to explore a geological wonderland on private property, deeply rooted in the storied history of the Woodward Ranch.

The Woodward Ranch, a historic cattle operation founded in 1884, held a secret treasure. In 1939, the family uncovered a wealth of valuable agates and other gemstones on the property. This discovery transformed the ranch into a legendary destination for rockhounds. Visitors were welcomed to hunt for their own finds, and in 1955, the family established the iconic Rollin' Rock Club of Texas. 

For decades, the ranch was a rock-hunting hotspot until it was sold in 2014 and closed to the public. The good news? You can still access Needle Peak, a special section of the old ranch known for its unique geological finds. Marathon Mountain Adventures now offers exclusive access to this remarkable location.

Needle Peak is a dream destination for rock enthusiasts, famed for its unique formations and abundant fossils. The peak consists of Tertiary Age Chisos Formation lava and ash flows. Hot water from ancient magma deposited aragonite crystals, which are key to the spectacular Pom-Pom agates, characterized by their beautiful red and yellow bursts. You'll discover a stunning array of gems, including clear-to-yellow agates, green-to-golden yellow moss agate, yellow and green jaspers, and banded agates. A scarce find here are chalcedony pseudomorph-after-aragonite crystals, a near one-of-a-kind trophy.

While most of the land here is private or part of Big Bend National Park, where rock collecting is prohibited, this exclusive expedition allows you not only to hunt for these treasures but also to take them home.

As a special highlight, you can purchase a bag of the rocks you've collected. All proceeds will be donated to the Alpine Humane Society in honor of the late John F. Woodward III, also known as Trey Woodward, who continued his family's legacy. This contribution celebrates Trey's profound impact on the community and among rock enthusiasts worldwide. Join us in paying tribute to a true pioneer while discovering the natural wonders and rich history of Needle Peak.