Stone Mountain is a quartz monzonite dome located in Stone Mountain Park in Stone Mountain, Georgia, United States. It is the largest exposed mass of granite in the world and is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The mountain is known for its carving of Confederate leaders on the north face, which has been the subject of controversy and debate. In addition to the carving, the park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, a sky ride, and a laser show.
History of Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain has a long and complex history that spans thousands of years. The mountain was formed over 300 million years ago during the formation of the Appalachian Mountains. The mountain is made of quartz monzonite, a type of granite that is harder and more durable than most other types of granite.
The area around Stone Mountain has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. The Cherokee and Creek tribes lived in the area before European settlers arrived in the 18th century. The mountain was an important landmark for the indigenous people, and it played a significant role in their spiritual and cultural practices.
In the 19th century, Stone Mountain became a popular tourist destination, and people came from all over to see the mountain’s natural beauty. The first hotel on the mountain was built in 1834, and by the late 1800s, the area had become a popular resort destination.
In the early 20th century, a group of businessmen formed the Stone Mountain Confederate Monumental Association with the goal of creating a memorial to the Confederacy on the side of the mountain. The group commissioned Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor who later created Mount Rushmore, to create a carving of Confederate leaders on the mountain.
Work on the carving began in 1923 and took over 50 years to complete. The carving is the largest high relief sculpture in the world, and it depicts three Confederate leaders: Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and Jefferson Davis. The carving has been a source of controversy since its creation, with many people criticizing it as a celebration of white supremacy and racism.
Today, Stone Mountain is a popular tourist destination and a state park. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and a variety of family-friendly attractions. The mountain’s history continues to be a topic of debate and discussion, with ongoing efforts to balance the park’s Confederate history with a more inclusive and diverse representation of Georgia’s past.
10 Best things you can do during your visit to Stone Mountain
Hike to the Top: Hiking to the top of Stone Mountain is a popular activity for visitors. The trail is 1.3 miles each way, and the hike takes about an hour. It is a moderate hike, with a steep climb near the top. The view from the top is breathtaking, and you can see for miles around.
Ride the Summit Skyride: The Summit Skyride is a cable car that takes you to the top of Stone Mountain. The ride takes about 10 minutes, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way up. The view from the top is spectacular, and you can see the Atlanta skyline in the distance.
Watch the Laser Show: The Laser Show at Stone Mountain is a must-see attraction. It is a nighttime show that combines music, lights, and lasers to create a stunning visual display on the side of the mountain. The show is about 30 minutes long and is suitable for all ages.
Explore the Trails: Stone Mountain Park offers over 15 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests and around the base of the mountain. The trails vary in difficulty, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. There are also trails that are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Visit the Antebellum Plantation: The Antebellum Plantation at Stone Mountain is a historic site that offers a glimpse into life on a Georgia plantation before the Civil War. Visitors can tour the grounds, which include a house, barn, and slave quarters. Costumed interpreters demonstrate the activities of daily life on the plantation.
Take a Train Ride: The park’s scenic railroad takes visitors on a five-mile journey around the mountain. The train ride lasts about 25 minutes and provides stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding area.
Visit the Memorial Carving: The Memorial Carving on the side of Stone Mountain features Confederate leaders and is a controversial but significant part of the park’s history. Visitors can view the carving up close or from a distance.
Go Fishing: Stone Mountain Park’s lake offers fishing opportunities for bass, catfish, and more. Visitors can rent fishing equipment and purchase bait at the park.
Have a Picnic: Stone Mountain Park has many picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal with family and friends while taking in the views. There are over 40 picnic areas throughout the park, and some have grills and tables.
Try Adventure Activities: Stone Mountain Park offers activities such as rock climbing, mini-golf, and a ropes course for those seeking more adventurous experiences. Visitors can challenge themselves on the SkyHike ropes course, which features multiple levels of difficulty and is suitable for all ages.
