Quarry Park and Nature Preserve is a 684 acre park that is the site of 20 former granite mining quarries. Miles of trails wind through a wide variety of scenic nature areas, from woodlands and open prairie to wetlands and unquarried bedrock areas.
At the entrance of the woods, you’ll find the Liberty Derrick and Derrick House, which pay homage to the history of the granite mining industry. Check out some of the tools and techniques that were used for mining granite in the early 1900s.
In the summer, the park is a hotspot for families and thrill seekers alike. Quarry 11 features a sandy beach at one end and shorter jumping cliffs that are great for kids and families. Quarry 2 includes rocky high cliffs for jumping off and great areas around for lounging with friends. If you’re not into swimming, there is plenty else to do. Nature lovers can check out the plant life, which includes everything from oaks and aspens to yellow ladyslippers, Indian paintbrush, and prickly pear cactus. There are quarries for fishing, scuba diving, and rock climbing. Hiking your thing? Most of the trails are covered with gravel to make for easy walking and even stroller access with larger rubber tires. In the winter, the trails are great for snowshoeing, biking, and cross country skiing.
The Park is open year-round. It is open from 8:00 AM to one-half hour after sunset. After a snow fall of 4 or more inches, the park is open for Cross Country Skiing until 10 PM.
Amenities: Granite reflecting pools, Two swimming quarries, Scientific and Natural Areas, Mountain bike paths over billion-year-old bedrock, Trout fishing, Picnic Area, Hiking Trails, Geocaching, Derrick Exhibit, Rock Climbing, Scuba Diving, Cross Country Ski Trails, Winter walking/dog walking/Snowshoeing/Fat Tire Bicycle trails, and much more.
Permits: A vehicle parking permit is required at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve. The revenues generated from the fees are used to maintain park facilities.
New Rates Effective January 1, 2022
The Annual Vehicle Parking Permit: $25
Daily Parking Permit:
- $5.00 Labor Day thru Memorial Day
- $10.00 Memorial Day thru Labor Day
