Cathedral Rock

Geological Significance

Ridges Mountain is known by the local natives as the “Jewel of the Uwharries.” The southern peak and southwestern slope of this Northern Uwharrie Mountain is covered with gigantic volcanic boulders. Most of these huge boulders are strewn over more than 50 acres and reach heights of about 50 to 100 feet.

Huge rocks stand as towering monuments dotting the landscape. The owner, since youth, has spent many treasured hours walking among and admiring the great sentinels of stone that stand watch on Ridges Mountain. Even today, the silent sentinels shield the secret of that long lost cave.

Before the 1849 gold strike in California, Ridges Mountain was known as “Green Mountain” by the early gold prospectors. They named it “Green Mountain” after the dark green coloration of the volcanic rock found at this location.

Tremendous Gabbro formations of black granite are found on Ridges Mountain. This stone is considered to be the premium material for beauty and durability. Only buildings made of stone have survived from ancient times.

This fantastic black granite formation located on the south end and southwestern slopes of Ridges Mountain should be preserved for education and enjoyment for all generations, rather than be mined for dimension building stones, as some have recommended.