A rock outcrop is the part of a rock formation that appears above the surface of the surrounding land, and one thing Georgia is famous for is its rock outcrops. There are a number of state and local parks built around these geological formations due to their significant historical value, and, let’s face it, they are just fun to play on!
Many of the rock outcrops have some very unique features, such as vernal pools, red moss, even the rare Georgia oak. However, not all of these outcrops are related. While some may be part of the large, very famous granite rock outcrop toward the central eastern part of the state, others are quite a bit older, like 350 million years older. The largest rock outcrop in Georgia is a granite pluton formed during the Alleghenian Orogeny, while some of the smaller areas are part of a massive belt of much older gneiss (pronounced "nice").
There are two loops connecting Pine Mountain - the East Loop and the West Loop. This is a rugged and challenging hike that reaches 1,562 feet above sea level. Once you reach the top of this mountain you will be at the highest point in Cartersville.
This land is part of 13,000 acres that was the original site of Mark Anthony Cooper's Iron Empire.
Pine Mountain Recreation Area now includes a connector to the US Army Corps of Engineers Cooper's Furnace Trail.
The trail is open daily for hiking. Mountain biking is allowed on Wednesday and Saturday on the East Loop only. Bikers must wear a helmet and follow the color-directional signs for those days.
East Loop Directions: I-75 to Exit 290, east on GA Highway 20, right at traffic light onto GA Spur 20, continue approximately four miles. The East Loop Trailhead access and parking area are on the right, just past Bartow Beach Road.
West Loop Directions: I-75 Exit 288, east on Main Street, at the end of Main Street turn right and the West Loop Trailhead access and parking area is on the left.
Logging Requirements:
Email me the answers to the following questions BEFORE logging online:
- Looking southeast, what is the name of the body of water that can be seen from this location?
- Use your map for this question. What is name of the river that is due south of this location?
- What is the significance of this river as it relates to the body of water from question 1?
- Name at least one other well known rock outcrop in the state of Georgia.
- This part has been temporarily suspended due to a missing plaque. Read the plaque, and tell me three things:
- The actual name of the overlook.
- The day of dedication.
- Dedicated by what organization?
- Post with your log a picture of both yourself and your GPS at the overlook
- Please do not post your answers in your online log. Any logs containing answers or not meeting the guidelines, including the posted picture, will be promptly deleted without notice. I will not email anyone begging them to fulfill the requirements! Thanks...
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