What You Need to Find and Admire Yooperlite Rocks
What is a Yooperlite?
Yooperlite rocks are syenite rocks embedded with fluorescent sodalite, which glows a bright orange when exposed to 365nm wavelength UV light. They may also be known as Emberlites. Though they look like ordinary gray stones during the day, these glowing rocks come to life after dark, making them a popular find among collectors and nature lovers.
Essential Gear for Yooperlite Hunting
Here’s what you’ll need to start your glowing rock adventure:
✅ 1. A 365nm UV Flashlight (Not 395nm)
The most important tool for finding Yooperlite rocks is a UV flashlight365nm wavelength. This shorter-wave UV light penetrates the rock better and causes the sodalite to fluoresce brilliantly.
Why 365nm over 395nm? While 395nm UV flashlights are more common and cheaper, they are much less effective. The fluorescence of Yooperlite rocks under 395nm is faint, or in some cases, not visible at all. For a true glow, go with a 365nm UV flashlight.
✅ 2. UV-Protective Glasses
UV light can be harmful to your eyes. When using a powerful flashlight, especially at night, it’s best to wear UV-blocking safety glasses. They help protect your vision and enhance contrast when you’re scanning the beach.
✅ 3. A Dark, Clear Night
Timing matters. The best time to hunt for Yooperlite stones is after sunset, preferably on a clear, moonless night. The darker the surroundings, the more vividly the rocks will glow under UV light.
✅ 4. Sturdy Footwear and a Flashlight Headlamp
Since you’ll be walking on rocky, sometimes slippery beach terrain in low light, wear good hiking boots or water shoes. A white-light headlamp is helpful for navigating safely between UV scans.
✅ 5. A Collection Bag or Bucket
Once you find your first Yooperlite, you’ll want to keep it safe. Bring a bag or small bucket to store your glowing rocks as you collect them.
Optional But Helpful
A red-light flashlight (to preserve night vision between UV scans)
Bug spray (especially in summer)
Snacks and water if you’re planning a longer outing
Phone or camera with night mode for capturing the glow
Tips for a Successful Yooperlite Hunt
Move slowly and sweep your UV light in a steady arc
Focus on rocky beaches near Lake Superior, especially around Whitefish Point, Grand Marais, and Munising
Respect nature—don’t leave trash or damage beach areas
Check local rules about rock collecting (some areas may have restrictions)
Final Thoughts
Hunting Yooperlite rocks is a unique and mesmerizing experience. With the right gear—especially a proper 365nm UV flashlight—you’ll see Michigan’s beaches in a whole new light, literally.
So pack your bag, grab your gear, and head north. The glowing rocks of the Upper Peninsula are waiting for you.
Check out the shop to find the prefect 365nm UV Flashlight and Yooperlite Rocks.