Boulder Fields Near Philadelphia

Who doesn’t love rocks? They are so fun to climb on and across. And thankfully, we have plenty of places to do that!

There are several boulder fields near Philadelphia (or a short drive away). And they all offer something fun to do. Of course, the most popular are the “ringing” rocks. But the large boulder fields in the Poconos are worth checking out too.

If you’re interested in exploring some of the large boulder fields in eastern Pennsylvania, this is the guide for you.

Geology of the Boulder Fields in Eastern PA

The first continental glacier advanced through Pennsylvania 800,000 years ago (give or take a few years), followed by two more glacial advances, the last occurring about 10,000–12,000 years ago.

As these glaciers expanded, they moved across the land, eroding soil and rock, then depositing the materials at the ice sheet’s edge as they melted.

Some boulder fields were formed due to the repeated freeze-thaw cycles where water seeped into cracks in the sandstone, expanding as it froze and gradually breaking the rock into massive boulders.

Ringing Rocks County Park

Ringing Rocks County Park is a popular boulder field in Bucks County because the rocks “ring” when you hit them with a hammer!

The 8-acre boulder field is one of the largest diabase boulder fields in the eastern US. The rocks have a higher iron percentage than typical igneous rocks, giving them a metallic ringing sound when struck with a hammer.

To get to the boulder field, follow the trail from the parking lot. After visiting the field, continue along the trail to the waterfall.

Ringing Rocks Park

Many people don’t realize there are two “ringing” boulder fields near Philadelphia!

About a half-acre in size, Ringing Rocks Park in Pottstown isn’t nearly as popular or well-known as its Bucks County counterpart. But the rocks “ring” just as loudly!

This boulder field is the easiest one to access on the list, as it is just steps away from the parking lot.

Unlike the other fields on this list, there aren’t any hiking trails in the park. However, you can enjoy some roller skating (right next door) or visit the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles (about 15 minutes away) for an additional activity.

Blue Rocks at Blue Rocks Family Campground

The centerpiece of Blue Rocks Campground is their 15-acre boulder field! It looks like it never ends as it climbs up the mountain towards the Appalachian Trail.

You can climb all over the boulders at Blue Rocks, even if you’re not staying at the campground. They sell day passes for hikers and visitors. There are even bathrooms and seats next to the boulder field.

If you want more to do, you can access the Appalachian Trail and hike to the Pulpit and Pinnacle. The trailhead is right next to the Blue Rocks boulder field. Leaving from the campground shortens the trek to 6 miles from the usual 9 miles.

River of Rocks at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

River of Rocks at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is the most difficult boulder field to get to on this list. To reach the field, you’ll have to hike on the River of Rocks (red) Trail at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for about a mile. This is one of the more challenging trails at Hawk Mountain, thanks to the many rocks along the trail.

The field is one mile long and 30- 400 feet wide, depending on the section you’re exploring. It’s split into two almost equal halves by the Golden Eagles (yellow) Trail.

Once you’ve reached the field, you have many options to continue your hike. We usually take the Golden Eagle Trail (very steep!) up to the Skyline Trail and loop back down via the Lookout Trail. But there are plenty of other combinations, depending on what you’re in the mood for!

Hickory Run State Park

At 400 feet wide and 1800 feet long, the boulder field at Hickory Run State Park is the largest of its kind in the Appalachian region. Some of the stones in the field are 30 feet long!!

Like the Pottstown Ringing Rocks Park, the boulder field at Hickory Run is right next to the parking area, so it’s easy to access. However, the drive down the long dirt road can be anything but easy. There are several divots and large potholes to navigate around, so it’s best to use a car that sits higher off the ground.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do at Hickory Run State Park! You can swim, camp, and hike, to name a few. Some of our favorite trails include Shades of Death and the Hawk Falls trails.