Stop at the rest area and learn a little about Kentucky geology.
According to the Kentucky Geological Survey, more than half of the surface rock in our commonwealth is limestone. Limestone is composed of calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate, when dissolved in acid can form karst features. Kentucky has amazing examples of karst--the world's largest cave (Mammoth Cave), and a famous sinkhole (opened under the Corvette museum). It is also loaded with other sinkholes, springs, natural bridges, and "windows."
Limestone can vary somewhat in color, but is typically grayish or tan. But limestone is far from the only rock commonly found in Kentucky. The hardest mineral found in KY is quartz, primarily composed of silicon. Often these and other materials co-exist.
At the posted coordinates, you will find a pyramid shaped rock that is an excellent example of Kentucky geology. Provided by the Kentucky Crushed Stone Association and installed by the Federal Highway Administration, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, and KCSA, the rock is a permanent memorial to the victims of the April 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
To receive credit for this earthcache, please visit the site and answer the following questions based on your observations about the excellent example of Kentucky geology:
1) Approximately how tall is the rock?
2) Approximately what percent of the rock is quartz? a) less than 5% b) 10-50% c) more than 75%
3) Describe the texture of the quartz compared to the limestone.
4) Describe the geometry of the quartz--e.g. is it thick or thin veins, pockets, large areas, etc. Does it have an orientation or pattern or appear random?
5) How do you think the quartz and limestone became intermingled?
6) Optional: Post a picture of yourself in front of this Kentucky rock.