Vermilion Point
Michigan
Find: Lake Superior Agates, magnetite, rhyolite, unakite, granites, white quartz, banded iron formation (BIF)
GPS: 46.76303, -85.15195
Nearest city: Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Recommended Vehicle: AWD, clearance very helpful.
Season: Accessible year round, Winter is likely to have significant snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. Roads likely aren’t drivable if there’s been heavy snow.
Summary:
If you’re up for a long drive on gravel and sand roads, Vermilion Point is a worthwhile reward. There are good chances of finding agates, unakite, magnetite, and more here. This portion of the Upper Peninsula is very remote and takes some commitment to reach.
It is a secluded spot, but you’re likely to run into some other collectors while you’re out here. It has been popular for many years.
There was a portion of the road that was very sandy when I visited in 2024. It was on a decent angle as well, so consider planning to visit in a vehicle you’re comfortable driving through sand in.
Video
Check out the video for a better look at what can be found when exploring this spot.
3 Helpful Tools
Chest Waders
Chest waders are great to stay dry if you want to get in the lake.
Agate Scoop
An agate scoop is helpful to pick things up faster and farther away from you.
Classifier
A classifier is fun to sit with if you’re a fan of small agates and stones. One with a larger, 1-inch mesh would be what I’d pick.
The drive in through some tall pines
I got lucky and caught a day with very few waves
An idea of the mix of rock you'll find
An underwater shot in about 3 or 4 feet of water
Magnetite
I believe this is magnetite too, but with some etching on its surface
Banded iron formation with what looks like quartz also
A Lake Superior Agate with some pockets or tubes on it
A tiny agate with detailed banding and color