The ledge out crop is common in this area and is comprised of Quartzite. Quartzite is a hard, non-foliated metamorphic rock which was originally pure quartz sandstone. Sandstone is converted into quartzite through heating and pressure usually related to tectonic compression within orogenic belts. Pure quartzite is usually white to grey, though quartzites often occur in various shades of pink and red due to varying amounts of iron oxide, other variations in color are also possible depending on the mineral impurities it contains.
The Mayor-Niles Forest, owned and managed by the Hanover Conservancy, is a forested parcel that cloaks the west slope of Moose Mountain just below the North Peak, connecting with National Park Service lands surrounding the Appalachian Trail. The 92-acre property is the gift of Michael and Elizabeth Mayor and John Niles. The Mayor-Niles Forest is open for people-powered recreation of all types. An old tote path, possibly built by International Paper Company when it owned the Moose Mountain ridge, leads up through the property. The Plummer Hill Road, a Class VI road, forms one border runs along the northwest side of the property. The Appalachian Trail Corridor Boundary forms another (blazed in yellow) forms the east boundary. The Forest is home to bear, moose, deer, grouse, porcupine, and many other kinds of wildlife. Stone walls and the old road are reminders that a century ago, much of this land was a high sheep pasture.
The coordinates should get you close enough to allow your Geo-Senses to kick in. Use the tote path and then the White Ledge Trail. Not winter friendly.
Have Fun
Please feel free to leave comments about your experience in the forest in the log, when logging your find or send them to the Hanover Conservancy. (www.hanoverconservancy.org)
