This Glacial Erratic In New Jersey Is A Unique Geological Phenomenon

New Jersey is home to a whole host of hidden gems, some of which have a mystical twist. One of my favorites can be found atop Pyramid Mountain. Pyramid Mountain was once part of a private club but now includes 1,500 scenic acres that are open to the public. There’s plenty to enjoy, including this incredible geological wonder.

This is Tripod Rock, a glacial erratic located in Kinnelon, in the uniquely named Pyramid Mountain Natural Historical Area.

Flickr/Heidi Frank

A glacial erratic is a piece of rock that differs from the size and type of rock native to the area in which it rests. It is carried by the melting of glacial ice, sometimes for miles.

Flickr/Mark Granitz

While it may not seem so strange up close, from a distance, you’ll notice that the massive boulder is balancing at an angle on three smaller rocks.

Flickr/Jersey Gal 2009

How has it maintained its balance for thousands of years? Some say it has a supernatural element, but it’s likely just science.

Flickr/Wally Gobetz

According to legend, however, it was moved by magic via Native shaman. While highly unlikely, Tripod Rock is located in an area that once had a large Native American population - it may have been used as part of a calendar system.

Flickr/Steven Reynolds

The photos don’t accurately reflect its magnificence - it measures around 19 feet long and 10 feet wide, weighing about 140 tons. It is elevated about 18 inches from the ground. Here, you get a glimpse of its actual size.

Flickr/Stephen Harris

Reaching the rock requires a scenic 3-mile loop hike. Quite manageable, you can check out the trail in the video below by NJHiking.com: