History is full of mysterious formations that exude mystery: Stonehenge, the Pyramids, and countless others. But did you know that New Hampshire has its very own mystery stone hidden in the rolling mountains of the state?
The Madison Boulder in Madison is absolutely massive. In fact, it's hard to tell just how big it is in pictures, until you notice those tiny-looking people at the base. Once you see the boulder you can appreciate how truly amazing it is. The boulder is 23 feet high, 37 feet from front to back, and 85 feet long.
The block weights about 12 million pounds! It's no wonder that people are amazed that the block wound up in the middle of the New Hampshire woods with seemingly no explanation. Conspiracy theorists credit aliens, but there is a much more likely explanation.
The Madison Boulder is a glacial erratic, a rock that was carried over distance by glacial ice. Although that explanation of the boulder's existence is much less exciting than aliens, the Madison Boulder is still extraordinary - it is one of the largest erratics in the world.
Because of the rock's significance, the boulder was declared a National Natural Landmark in the 1970s. The area surrounding the boulder is now part of the Madison Boulder Natural Area, with hiking trails and woods.
The area is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild, about how the rock was transported and the impressive power of nature - or aliens!
Looking for more interesting New Hampshire sights? Check out these hidden gems in New Hampshire!
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