Rocky Hill Ridge facts for kids
The Rocky Hill Ridge, also known as the Mount Lucas-Rocky Hill Ridge, is a long, narrow hill made of a special type of rock called diabase. This ridge stretches from west to east in the state of New Jersey, United States. It gets its name, Mount Lucas, from an 18th-century landowner named Lucas Voorhees.
This ridge is part of a group of similar hills in the area. Other hills like Baldpate Mountain and Pennington Mountain are also made from the same kind of rock. The Mount Rose part of the ridge and some of the Sourland Mountains are also formed this way.
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What is the Rocky Hill Ridge?
The Rocky Hill Ridge is about 9 miles (14.5 kilometers) long. It crosses the Millstone River near a road called The Georgetown Franklin Turnpike. After crossing the river, the ridge continues with different names: the Ten-Mile Run Mountain and the Lawrence Brook Mountain.
How Was the Ridge Formed?
The Rocky Hill Ridge was created by a process called a diabase intrusion. This happens when hot, melted rock (magma) from deep inside the Earth pushes its way up into cracks in older rocks. Instead of erupting as a volcano, this magma cools and hardens underground. Over a very long time, the softer rocks around it wear away, leaving the harder diabase rock standing tall as a ridge. This type of rock is very strong and resistant to erosion.
Where is the Ridge Located?
The western part of the Rocky Hill Ridge points northwest towards an area called The Sourlands. However, it doesn't quite connect to The Sourlands. This is because of a natural break in the Earth's crust known as the Hopewell Fault. This fault line separates the two landforms.
Why is the Ridge Important?
The Rocky Hill Ridge is an important natural feature in New Jersey. It provides unique habitats for plants and animals. Its rocky slopes and forests are home to various species. The ridge also plays a role in the local water system, influencing how water flows through the area.
What Can You Do There?
While the article doesn't list specific activities, ridges like Rocky Hill often offer opportunities for outdoor activities. These might include hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying nature. Many natural areas in New Jersey are preserved for people to explore and learn about the environment.
