Natural Chimneys

Natural Chimneys.

Natural Chimneys is a park and natural rock structure located near Mt. Solon in Augusta County, Virginia in the United States, in the Shenandoah Valley. The rock "chimneys" formed from limestone that began to accumulate and harden into stone about 500 million years ago in the Paleozoic Era, when the region was underwater. Over time, enormous upward pressures of magma and widespread geologic upheaval, which created the Appalachian Mountains, combined with erosive forces of water and destroyed weaker layers of stone. Eventually, this created the rock chimneys which can be seen today.[1] The chimneys tower as much as 120 feet above ground level.[2]

The park, located along the North River, has a 145-site campground with a pool, playground, and hiking trails. The park also hosts one of the largest jousting tournaments in the eastern United States. The tournament is held annually, on the third Saturday of August since 1821.[3] Augusta County owns the property and maintains the facility.

References

  1. ↑ "Augusta County, VA : Geological & Historical Significance". Co.augusta.va.us. 2010-01-26. Retrieved 2011-03-01.
  2. ↑ "Welcome - Virginia Campground Owners | The Finest Campgrounds in Virginia". Virginiacampgrounds.org. Retrieved 2011-03-01.
  3. ↑ Information signs at the park
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Coordinates: 38°21′28″N 79°04′34″W / 38.3579°N 79.0760°W / 38.3579; -79.0760

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