Carol Vigorito, Interpretive Naturalist
Exploring the landscape of Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park in a leafless season frees us to observe and speculate on some amazing natural heritage. Partially hidden by vegetation in other seasons, old foundations, rock faces, quarry and mill artifacts, the Ohio & Erie Canal bed and Lock 28 (Deep Lock) all become more visible as winter approaches. As you explore the park:
- Pause to reflect on the awe-inspiring geologic progression that created the massive deposits of sedimentary rock.
- Imagine the primitive, dangerous, labor-intensive processes undertaken to remove as many as 12 feet of soil and rubble, to drill and blast free the prized Berea sandstone beneath, to mill it into shape and to transport the colossal rocks by canal boat or railroad.
- Consider the impact on the community of this incredible natural resource as it was used in foundations, dams, walls, bridges, gravestones, roads, grinding operations and even toboggan chutes!
Enjoy all that Deep Lock Quarry has to offer with a hike to discover and investigate.
For more stories like this, check out Green Islands Magazine, a bi-monthly publication from Summit Metro Parks. Summit County residents can sign up to receive the publication at home free of charge.