Rockport's Granite Quarries - Swimming, Biking, Jogging, Hiking

Occasionally, a hearty guest at the Seaward Inn will accompany Nancy, the owner, and Blackberry, her Staffordshire terrier, for an early morning jog through narrow woodland paths for a quick dip in one of Rockport's many granite quarries. Steele Derrick, her favorite, is closed to the public for swimming. It is privately owned by an association of natives with exclusive swimming privileges. However, if you have a friend with a pass, you're in luck.This "pit" as quarries are commonly called, has always had the reputation of being bottomless. It therefore, lends itself to thrill seekers who enjoy jumping off it's huge cliffs... the biggest know as "Barge".

Nancy typically forgoes the jumping, but greatly enjoys the running, swimming and hiking. Perhaps the best quarry for tourists to visit is the Halibut Point State Park. This historic Park has a visitor's center with great walking trails, wildlife and tide pools. It also has a great picnic area where visitors can explore and climb huge boulders.