The Vermont Forest Trail That Holds A Long Forgotten Secret Of The Civil War
Vermont is well known for its long marble quarrying history and the town of Dorset was right at the center of the action. While you might first think of the Dorset Quarry, the oldest marble quarry in the nation and a summertime hotspot for a swim, there is another lesser-known quarry that has ties to the Civil War. Hike the Gettysburg Quarry Trail to uncover a long-forgotten secret of the past.
There are quarries to be found all over Vermont. Many being slowly reclaimed by nature and quietly hidden in the forests of Vermont. The Gettysburg Quarry is one such incredible place.
In its heyday, the Gettysburg Quarry was a bustling operation. It shipped blocks of marble out to create thousands of headstones for the soldiers who died in Gettysburg, hence the quarry's name.
Although the quarry itself is long ago abandoned, you can still experience this Civil War Era place. Hike to the Gettysburg Quarry through the Owls Head Town Forest. The trail is just 1/2 mile long but tends to be a little steep.
As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for stone constructions. These cellar holes are the faint remains of the migrant worker housing from when the quarry was still in operation.
Climb the trail but don't rush, just before you reach the quarry, there's a short side trail you'll want to take. The ridge leads to Art's Bench and a jaw-dropping view.
Art's Bench is a huge slab of marble placed at this spot with an expansive overlook. The bench is dedicated to Dorset resident, Arthur W. Gilbert for his 30-year conservation efforts to keep the quarry preserved and accessible.
Next, you'll reach the quarry. The rock is imposing and probably was much more so for the workers who had to harvest the marble for the many Civil War graves. It's hard to believe this forest trail leads to such an incredible place of history.
The Owls Head Town Forest Trail Head is located off Black Rock Lane/ Ken’s Camp Road (both private roads) off Vermont Route 30 in Dorset. Please respect the neighbors on the these roads when traveling to the trailhead.
Learn more about Owl's Head Town Forest and the Gettysburg Quarry Hike by visiting the Town of Dorset website. You can download a trail map here.
Have you ever taken this historic hike? Share your experiences and photos in the comments section below or in our Vermont Nature Lover’s Group on Facebook. The world’s largest underground quarry in the world is also hiding in Vermont and you can take a virtual tour here.
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