The solitary Czartowska Skała (463 metres above sea level) is one of the most characteristic basaltic elevations in the Kaczawskie Foothills. It is located in the eastern part of the region, near the village of Pomocne in the “Chełmy” Landscape Park, and rises in the form of a distinct cone with a relative height of about 40 metres.
It is an example of a neck, which is a remnant formed by weathering and erosion of an ancient volcanic chimney that led to a no longer existing volcanic cone. The exposed basalt in the former quarry exhibits columnar jointing with exceptional regularity, resembling an inverted fan in shape. In its central part, the columns are almost vertical, deviating in the lateral sections at angles of 30–50°, following the slope inclination. Such a simple fan-shaped arrangement indicates a single-phase volcanic activity.
The age of the ancient volcano has not been precisely determined, although by analogy with other occurrences of basalt in the vicinity, it can be speculated that it was active approximately 30–25 million years ago. In recognition of its scientific value, Czartowska Skała has been protected as a natural monument. The summit of Czartowska Skała is devoid of trees and serves as an excellent viewpoint.
The Czartowska Skała is crossed by the hiking trail called the Trail of Extinct Volcanoes. The approach from the Jawor–Świerzawa road takes about 15 minutes. In the former quarry on the western side of the hill, a resting area has been arranged, and there are also informational boards about Czartowska Skała and its geological significance.
Description: Piotr Migoń
Trip route
(the map illustrates the approach in one direction, with the return journey along the same route.)
