Hickory Run State Park - Journey through prehistoric geology in the Poconos

Those visiting Hickory Run State Park in the Pocono Mountains should expect to see something they’ve never see before. In the northeast corner of the park, formed by millions of years of glacial movement is the Boulder Field. 

At 400 feet by 1,800 feet, this vast, rocky landscape is a geological marvel. The field is made up of tightly packed sandstone boulders, ranging in size from small stones to massive rocks that weigh several tons. Some of the boulders are 26 feet long.

The Boulder Field’s appearance is striking because of its flatness and the absence of vegetation over the large area. It looks like something you’d on the moon or some distant planet. 

The site was formed over 20,000 years ago during the last Ice Age, when repeated freeze-thaw cycles caused the sandstone to fracture and break apart, leaving behind this stunning rocky expanse.

Because of its preserved state, the Boulder Field offers a rare glimpse into the geological processes that shaped northeastern Pennsylvania. This National Natural Landmark begs to be explored by those visiting the park. 

On this episode, I speak with Megan Fedor and Jake Smith. Megan and Jake are environmental education specialists at Hickory Run State Park.

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