Engine House Loop – Elephant Rocks Sp

Distance: 2.0 miles Elevation Gain: 100 ft Difficulty: Easy Type: Loop Surface: Dirt/Rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 1-2 hours Fee: $5-8/vehicle Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The Engine House Loop visits the ruins of the granite quarry operation that made Elephant Rocks a commercial site from 1869 through the early 20th century. The 1879 engine house foundation remains visible, along with drill marks and cut stone left by quarrymen. Walking atop the boulders reveals views across the St. Francois Mountains. Native lichens in orange, grey, and green encrust the granite surfaces while rare plants including fame flower colonize thin rock crevices.