One Of Pennsylvania's Most Unusual Attractions Is A Free-To-Visit, Family-Friendly Park With Unique Rocks

Pennsylvania may be known for its foodie scene and long-lasting fall foliage destinations, but there's a lesser-known attraction that's a musical boulder field — does it ring a bell? Located in Bucks County, between Flemington, New Jersey, and the artsy Pennsylvania city of Allentown, Ringing Rocks County Park is an 8-acre natural phenomenon the whole family can enjoy. The boulder field is dotted with rocks of all sizes that chime like bells, meaning you shouldn't forget your hammer at home if you want to test them out.

Blending geology with music, Ringing Rocks County Park is one of those places where you can experience nature in its most magical form. And the best part about it is that it's free to the public. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, this park will offer you more than your average outdoor activity. So take the road less traveled this time and bring your tools with you — it might get loud.

Made from a combination of basalt and minerals like iron, the ringing rocks are estimated to have formed over the course of 175 million years. No one really knows why these rocks make an audible sound when struck. Several scientists tried to theorize it, but they have yet to provide an explanation. Helen Delano, a geologist who works for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, told WHYY in 2013 that the resonance is possibly due to how the rocks are stacked as well as how they've weathered over time. "Each one is sitting on perhaps several points of contact with the rocks below, so the air that surrounds those in those spaces doesn't damp out the vibrations the way surrounding rock or soil would," she said.

Some rocks don't even ring at all, which is another mystery to uncover. But when you do strike a boulder that rings, you won't be able to resist hitting the others to hear how differently each vibrates. The haunting sound of the metallic tones creates an almost mystical mood, which echoes through the surrounding forest. As unusual as this place is, families love coming here for an interactive adventure. The boulders are easy to access, children love climbing the rocks, and everyone enjoys the hands-on experience — as long as the kids don't fight over who gets the hammer first!

Hitting rocks isn't the only activity available in the park. There's also a waterfall you can easily hike to, which is best visited in winter when the water flow is at its peak. The trail also leads to the boulder field and is 1 mile total — just don't visit if conditions are snowy and icy, as the boulder field will become difficult to pass. Spring and fall have fewer crowds, with the water at High Falls still flowing; by summertime, it may be completely dry and the crowds at the boulder field might ruin your excursion.

While you're there, make sure to pack a picnic so you can take breaks in between striking the rocks — the parking lot has a few tables where you can set up for a quick lunch. Don't forget your camera either; the geological wonders are a great photography hotspot with dramatic landscapes. Before heading to Ringing Rocks County Park, make sure you have the right footwear for a hike through the woods before reaching the boulder field. For more interactive experiences the whole family can enjoy, Pennsylvania is also home to one of the best science museums in the country.