Shenandoah National Park issued the following announcement on June 12.
Are you heading to the southern region of the Park?
How about a quick stop to see some geology?
In need of some panoramic views?
Around mile marker 84 is the Blackrock Summit hiking trail (not to be confused with Blackrock at Big Meadows area). Here you will find rock composed of a light grey to tan color called "quartzite." So, where does this 'Blackrock' name originate from, you ask? This metamorphic rock is named due to a black lichen called rock tripe (Umbilicaria) that clings onto the rock surface!
So next time you visit this trailhead, please be mindful of the living organisms that call these rocks their home. Watch where you step on the trail so we can continue to protect the different species here at Shenandoah National Park.
Original source can be found here.
Source: Shenandoah National Park
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