Stone Mountain (North Carolina) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stone Mountain |
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The granite face of Stone Mountain.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,305 ft (703 m) |
| Prominence | 600 ft (180 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Alleghany / Wilkes counties, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Parent range | Blue Ridge Mountains |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike or rock climb |
| Designated: | 1974 |
Stone Mountain is a famous natural landmark located in Stone Mountain State Park in North Carolina. It's a huge, rounded rock that sticks out of the ground, made mostly of a type of rock called granite. This mountain rises sharply, over 600 feet (183 meters) above the land around it.
The top of Stone Mountain is 2,305 feet (706 meters) above sea level. It's easy to spot because its sides are mostly bare rock, and it has a unique brown-gray color. You can see it from many miles away! This mountain is a popular spot for rock climbing in North Carolina. The streams and creeks in the park are also great for brook trout fishing.
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What is Stone Mountain?
Stone Mountain is a special type of landform called a monadnock. Imagine a large, isolated hill or mountain that stands out in an otherwise flat or gently rolling area. That's a monadnock! Stone Mountain is a great example of this in North Carolina.
How Was Stone Mountain Formed?
Stone Mountain is made of a very hard rock called granite. Geologists, who study rocks and the Earth, say this granite formed a very long time ago, during the Devonian Period. This period was about 419 to 359 million years ago.
The granite formed deep underground when hot, melted rock (magma) pushed its way into older rocks. Over millions of years, the softer rocks above and around the granite wore away due to wind and water. This process, called erosion, slowly uncovered the tough granite, leaving Stone Mountain standing tall.
Why is it a National Natural Landmark?
Because Stone Mountain is such a clear and impressive example of a monadnock made of granite, it was given a special title. In May 1974, it was named a National Natural Landmark. This means it's a nationally important natural area that shows the best examples of America's natural history.
Fun Activities at Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain State Park offers many exciting things to do for visitors of all ages.
Rock Climbing Adventures
The mountain's steep, bare sides make it a perfect place for rock climbing. It's known as one of the best spots for this sport in North Carolina. Climbers enjoy the challenge of scaling its granite face.
Fishing in Clear Streams
If you love fishing, the park's creeks and streams are home to brook trout. These fish are fun to catch, and the clear waters make for a peaceful fishing experience.
Hiking and Exploring
Besides climbing and fishing, the park has many trails for hiking. You can explore the forests, see waterfalls, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around Stone Mountain. It's a great place to connect with nature and learn about the local plants and animals.
Images for kids
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Stone Mountain around 1910, showing its unique shape.
