Deep within the Jefferson National Forest awaits an otherworldly attraction that relatively few have experienced: Devil’s Marbleyard. Upon first glance, it’s no challenge to understand how this attraction earned its name. Thousands of massive boulders — some the size of cars — decorate an eight-acre expanse of a mountainside. The effect is something you’d expect from a glacial field yet this marble yard has a different origin. Here’s more on how this baffling natural attraction was formed and the trail that will lead you straight to it.
Not far from the breathtaking town of Natural Bridge, Virginia awaits one of the more unusual outdoor attractions: Devil’s Marbleyard. It’s an experience that every Virginia outdoor enthusiast should enjoy at least once in their hiking career.
Goss Nuzzo-Jones / flickr
The marble yard can be reached via a 4.5-mile trek known as Belfast Trail.
Leanne Creger / AllTrails The path is relatively well-maintained, although it’s considered to be a challenging hike. To prepare for the adventure, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and pack plenty of water.
There are also three stream crossings, so keep in mind that your feet might get wet depending on recent rainfall.
Doniel Kaye / AllTrails
Reaching the marble yard, you might feel overwhelmed by the idea of scrambling up these endless boulders. Rest assured, you don’t need to!
Doniel Kaye / AllTrails There’s a pathway on the right side of the boulder field as you ascend the mountain (it follows alongside the creek). While it’s possible to scramble over the boulders, this is by no means recommended. Without proper caution and footwear, scrambling is a dangerous option.
Enjoying your surroundings, you’ll be in awe of the immense geological history at work.
Leanne Creger / AllTrails According to the U.S. Geologic Survey, these rocks started out as a white sandy beach more than 500 million years ago. Interestingly, the sand was filled with worms that created tunnels as they moved through the sediment.
Eventually, the sand was submerged and transformed into quartzite, which remained in-tact for millions of years until ice crystals formed along the tunnels. Keep in mind that at this time, the Appalachian Mountains were as tall as the Himalayas!
Alex K / AllTrails When the ice expanded, the boulders were formed and came crumbling down the mountain slope, creating the marble yard as we know it today.
Whether you decide to take the trail to the top or simply admire the rocks from the bottom of the trail, you’ll be in awe of these otherworldly formations.
Justin P / AllTrails
What are your thoughts on this otherworldly attraction in Virginia? Have you hiked to Devil’s Marbleyard before? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Join in on the conversation by leaving a comment below. You can access the trail map and parking area by clicking here.
Goss Nuzzo-Jones / flickr
Leanne Creger / AllTrails
The path is relatively well-maintained, although it’s considered to be a challenging hike. To prepare for the adventure, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and pack plenty of water.
Doniel Kaye / AllTrails
There’s a pathway on the right side of the boulder field as you ascend the mountain (it follows alongside the creek). While it’s possible to scramble over the boulders, this is by no means recommended. Without proper caution and footwear, scrambling is a dangerous option.
According to the U.S. Geologic Survey, these rocks started out as a white sandy beach more than 500 million years ago. Interestingly, the sand was filled with worms that created tunnels as they moved through the sediment.
Alex K / AllTrails
When the ice expanded, the boulders were formed and came crumbling down the mountain slope, creating the marble yard as we know it today.
Justin P / AllTrails
For more fascinating landmarks, be sure to read about Virginia’s top natural attractions.
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Address: Devils Marbleyard, Virginia 24579, USA
