This cache is placed with permission. Please follow all park rules, noting that the park is open Sunrise to Sunset (no night caching, please).
Cell service will be limited in various areas on the AMNHA Geo-Path. Please plan accordingly.
Questions or need to share a challenge with a cache?
Send us a message through the Geocaching app
Remember to bring a pen, items to trade, and follow the recommended
Geocaching Etiquette.
CONGRATS TO LADYBLACKCAT FOR FTF!
Not recommended for small children.
AMNHA Geo-Path Series
AMNHA: Arabia Mountain Quarry History
Passport: Lands Less Visited
Series: Lands Less Visited
Password: Located in the logbook
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Parking Options: See waypoints
Where Industry Met Stone
The rock rubble surrounding this area is more than just scattered stone. It is the by-product of a once massive granite quarrying operation that shaped both the land and the community around Arabia Mountain.
Quarrying here began in the early 1880s. By 1889, the Arabia Granite Company had constructed a railroad from Lithonia to this site, with a spur leading directly to the base of Arabia Mountain’s north peak.
This was not a small operation. By 1916, more than 300 men were working here, drilling, cutting, and transporting granite across the region.
Powering the Quarry
Around 1910, the company built key infrastructure to support the operation, including the Quarry Office Building and a large powerhouse with air compressors.
Arabia Lake was created to supply water for the boilers, and compressed air lines stretched across the landscape to power drilling equipment at multiple sites.
What now feels quiet and remote was once a place of constant motion, noise, and industry.
What Remains Today
As you explore, look closely at the rock around you. You may notice straight, repeating patterns etched into the stone. These are drill marks, physical evidence of the work that once took place here.
Portions of the old rail grade now form part of the Mile Rock Trail, and the stone remains of historic structures can still be found nearby.
Some areas, including the former powerhouse site, are not recommended for public access due to safety concerns. Please respect posted guidance and explore responsibly.
From Industry to Preserve
Quarrying slowed during the Great Depression, and by the mid-20th century operations had significantly declined.
In 1972, the Davidson Mineral Company donated hundreds of acres of land to DeKalb County, helping transform this once-industrial site into what is now part of the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve.
Today, the landscape tells two stories at once. One of industry, effort, and innovation. The other of restoration, quiet, and time reclaiming the land.
Getting There
Park at the Arabia Mountain Nature Center on Klondike Road. From there, take the Mile Rock Trail onto the exposed granite.
Continue across the outcrop, following the most practical route toward the cache while being mindful of footing and sensitive areas.
Are You Ready To Find More Geocaches?
Come explore the
Arabia Mountain PATH
and earn trackable prizes along the way.
The
AMNHA Geo-PATH
is a geocaching program spread along more than 30 miles of trail. Many geocaches are waiting to be discovered.
Download the passports
Geocaching Adventures Passport
Completed the passports?
Choose one of the following options to claim your prize:
Scan and email the Arabia Alliance Team
Scan and mail Arabia Alliance office
Fill out the AMNHA Geo-Path Prize Form
Each cache is classified in one of the following series:
• Adventure Labs
• Arabia Mountain Adventures
• Geocaching 101
• GeoTour
• Lands Less Visited
• Lithonia's Historic Hike
• Panola Mountain Pathways
• Past and Present Passages
• South River Stroll
Additional Links
Trail Maps and
Landmarks
Learn and
Activities
Tips for Hiking in the Summer Heat
Tips for Avoiding Ticks
Winter Hikes and Winter Wildlife
Waypoints and
Adding or Viewing Coordinates
Trails Map Type Option