One of the best-kept secrets in the Wausau area is the Rib Mountain quarry. (Many Wausau natives have never been to this cool place!) The quarry is a large circular space with steep rock walls. The inside of the quarry is full of sparkly pieces of quartzite (it was mined here) and you can often see messages spelled out with the rocks. There is almost always a shallow pond that is fun to explore, and you should definitely make sure to see the view down into the quarry from the trail that runs along the rim.
If you’ve never been to the quarry, I hope I’ve piqued your interest!
The most direct route to the quarry is via the Turkey Vulture Trail, which can be accessed from Grouse Lane in Wausau. You can use the GPS coordinates 44.930158, -89.695983 to find your way there. (You can also get to the quarry via the Red Trail from the top of Rib Mountain State Park, but this is a much longer hike.)
When you get to Grouse Lane (it’s easy to miss the street, so keep your eyes peeled) you can park along either side of the gravel road for free. (A Wisconsin State Park Pass is not required.)
After you pass through the gates, you will continue walking straight for a short distance until the path forks. Go right to follow the Turkey Vulture Trail, which will take you directly to the quarry. It’s less than one mile, but it can be a bit of a challenge (especially for young kids) since you have to go uphill the whole way.
The trail is wide, at least 10 feet in most areas, and is completely gravel. Due to some of the gravel being deep and loose, I would not recommend bringing a stroller on this hike. There is sometimes a stream along the side of the trail, which can be a great distraction for kids who need break from the uphill climb.
After your uphill hike, you will be greeted by this view!
The sides of the quarry are craggy and steep making you feel like you are at the bottom of a rock bowl.
When you leave the quarry, make sure to keep walking west, across the Turkey Vulture Trail just a short distance to enjoy this overlook.
If you continue past the opening to the quarry and travel further along the Turkey Vulture Trail (southwest and then southeast) you will be afforded the opportunity to stand along the rim of the quarry. What a view!
Want to know more?
The quarry was started in 1893 by Jacob Kolter. Quartzite rock was mined for use in abrasives and shingles, among other things. 3M was the last company to use the quarry, which closed in the early 1980’s. (This information is from one of the signs from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources that can be seen along the trails.)
If you walk along the Dynamite Trail, you will be able to see the remains of a dynamite shed on the west end of the trail.
Now that the secret is out, this will be a hike that you will want to plan to do often, and will look forward to enjoying year after year.
Thank you
Didn’t have such a great explanation-now I know how to find- 😀😆
You’re welcome!! Yes, it’s kind of hidden! You can also get to the quarry if you start at the top of Rib Mountain, but I think this way is actually easier once you know where to park. 🙂