Tolch Rock facts for kids

Tolch Rock is a unique rock formation located in Juneau, Alaska, United States. It stands about 194 feet (59 meters) tall. This special rock is found about 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) west of Mendenhall Lake. It is also about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of the city of Juneau.

Discovering Tolch Rock

The name "Tolch Rock" was officially recognized in 1962. This happened thanks to the United States Geological Survey, which maps and studies the Earth. The rock's details were added to the Geographic Names Information System in 1981. This system keeps track of all place names in the United States.

How Tolch Rock Got Its Name

Originally, this large rock was simply called "Big Rock." However, in 1923, it was renamed in honor of W. T. Tolch. Mr. Tolch was important because he helped bring the Boy Scouts of America to Juneau.

Today, a hiking trail leads right to Tolch Rock. This trail is managed by the United States Forest Service. They help take care of the land and trails for everyone to enjoy. In the year 2000, a special event was held to rededicate the rock. There is also a plaque at the site to remember its history.

What Tolch Rock Looks Like

Tolch Rock is a very large boulder. It is made of a type of rock called granite. People have described it as being rectangular in shape. It is also called "erratic," which means it was moved by a glacier long ago. You can even see young trees growing right on its surface!

Wildlife Around the Rock

In 1999, a nest of northern goshawks was found on Tolch Rock. Northern goshawks are a type of bird of prey, known for being fast and powerful hunters. Scientists even put small radio tags on the adult birds to study them. However, no goshawk activity was seen at the rock in the years 2000 or 2001.