There’s a rock quarry-turned nature preserve in North Carolina that is unexpectedly awesome. Consisting of 83 acres, Dunn’s Mountain Nature and History Preserve is a nature preserve as well as a historical site featuring huge, rounded boulders that are plutonic by nature. The park itself features an old rock quarry and tons of granite outcroppings that cover the mountain surface like icing on a cake.
Located south of Salisbury and east of the town of Granite Quarry, Dunn's Mountain Nature and History Preserve includes picnic tables and shelters, a number of trails, a blacksmith shop, and a quarry overlook with long-range views that extend more than 50 miles on a clear day.
The general area where this unusual park is found is no stranger to quarries. Granite has been mined in the area for centuries. This site, in particular, was first quarried in the early 1700s.
And while the quarry filled with glistening spring water is a sight unto itself, the enormous plutonic boulders are what many people find most fascinating.
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They were formed millions of years ago when molten crystallized rock spewed upward from inside the earth, but stopped short of penetrating the surface. In turn, the molten rock cooled in pockets deep inside the earth's outer layers.
Over time, the plutonic boulders were exposed by erosion, leaving massive vertical outcroppings that protrude out of Dunn's Mountain like teeth from the gums of a skeleton.
Educational placards posted around the nature preserve detail not only the history of the quarrying here, but also the origins of the large plutonic boulders as well.
Additionally, Dunn's Mountain is also a bit of a biological wonder as an impressive 154 different plant varieties have been identified within the preserve, a rare biodiversity for this part of the Tar Heel State.
Dunn's Mountain Nature and History Preserve, a Rowan County Park, is best visited on the weekends — at which time you can usually catch a transport vehicle to the top of the mountain.
Please refer to the official hours of operation before planning a trip to explore this wonderful nature preserve.
Long-range binoculars are located at the overlook and restroom facilities are found at the parking area at the base of the mountain. With picnic shelters, restrooms, and 83 acres to explore, this hidden gem just about has it all.
The next time you’re seeking a fun way to explore the Tar Heel State, check out this nature preserve in North Carolina. Dunn’s Mountain Nature and History Preserve is open year-round — however, it’s only open on designated weekends. Check the website for updated weekend dates and hours of operation.
