Ableman’s Gorge State Natural Area has got to be one of Wisconsin’s most incredible natural wonders. The small town gem is brimming with beauty, diverse rock formations, and a canyon that’s 200 feet deep. Luckily, there’s a short loop trail that makes it easy to see the park’s most notable features. Take a look:
Absolutely gorgeous, Ableman’s Gorge State Natural Area is hidden in Rock Springs, which is about 15 miles west of Baraboo.
Kelsey Reed/Google
Despite its small town locale, you’ll know when you’re close, thanks to the large rock formations that line the highway near the natural area.
Aaron Carlson/Google
The highlight of the 126-acre site is Ableman’s Gorge, a rare canyon that’s 200’ deep and nearly a mile in length.
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Millions of years in the making, it was formed by sediment that sunk to the bottom of an ancient sea, which once covered the area. Eventually, the sediment turned into sandstone and then quartzite, which geologic forces lifted and bent into vertical layers.
Aaron Carlson/Google
But that’s not all. Over time, another ancient sea filled the area, covering the pre-existing layers with even more sediment. And just like the first time, the layers eventually turned to stone.
Howard Ogden/Google
At Ableman’s Gorge, you can actually see these layers, which is what makes the site so unique. Because so much history can be seen in the exposed rock, it’s long been frequented by researchers and geology students.
Catherine Whale/Google
Layers of quartzite, sandstone, and conglomerate can all be seen. You’ll also notice ripple marks, which interestingly enough, were once at the bottom of the sea floor!
Jim O’Keane/Google
About one mile, Ableman’s Gorge Trail is a great way for visitors of all ages to explore the gorge.
Aga Kubiak/Google
Short and sweet, the loop trail is filled with all sorts of beautiful sights, including lush forests, diverse rock formations, remnants of an old quarry, and depending on the time of year, plants that aren’t typically found in the surrounding area.
Steven Henning/Google
Among the interesting rock formations that fill the natural area is Van Hise Rock. Geologically renowned, the rock is named after Professor Van Hise, a famed Wisconsin geologist who extensively studied the area surrounding Ableman’s Gorge.
Aaron Carlson/Google
Kelsey Reed/Google
Aaron Carlson/Google
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Howard Ogden/Google
Catherine Whale/Google
Jim O’Keane/Google
Aga Kubiak/Google
Steven Henning/Google
For more information, call (888) 936-7463. You can also visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.
Did you know about this amazing natural area? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Were you impressed? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only place with unique rock formations. Read about another here.
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Address: 59 WI-136, Rock Springs, WI 53961, USA
