International EarthCache Day

14/10/2018

Do you like being out on this hills? Do you like to see some geology? Do you like a bit of banter and talk about caching? Do you like breakfast on a hill? Do you like views?

If you have said yes to the above, then this event may just be for you.

Come up to the Hitching Stone, to celebrate International EarthCache Day. The event will last 30 minutes from 0820 to 0850, 14/10/18. 

So why choose the Hitching Stone? 

The Hitching Stone is reputed to be Yorkshire’s largest boulder. It sits all alone, a geological oddity, on the crest of a hill. Estimated to weigh 1,000 tons, it measures 29 feet long, 25 feet wide and 21 feet high. The stone is of glacial origin and almost certainly originated on Earl Crag. On the north-western side, there is evidence of a “tube”, which runs throughout the length of the rock. Geologists believe it is caused by a fossilised tree (called Lepidodendron) that has since eroded away, leaving the “tube”.

Breakfast

I come from a tradition of looking after folk on a hill, and have taken part in the Breakfast on a Hill events. Come up to the Hitching Stone, and I will cook you a breakfast sandwich. You may be able to hear the stove roaring and the bacon cooking on your way in. No fancy catering though, it is fried bacon, bread, sauce if you want, in hand, and then you eat. 

Local EarthCaches 

If any attendees want to join me after the event, I will be taking a walk along Earl Crag, which is a short distance away, and where there are some earthcaches. This however is not a criteria of the event.

Getting to the Hitching Stone

There is parking close by and then an easy walk to the Hitching Stone, whilst it is not pram or wheelchair friendly, I feel that it is accesible to all. 

Local Traditions

There is a rumour that if you immerse yourself in the deep pool on top, then a wish may come true, so if you would like to do, then come along and do it, but please trunks or swimming costume.