Location and geological history
Okole (714 m above sea level) is the culmination of the Northern Ridge of the Kaczawskie Mountains and one of the highest peaks in the entire Kaczawskie Mountains. It looks particularly impressive from the north, where the difference in elevation compared to the undulating surface of the Kaczawskie Foothills exceeds 300 metres.
The rocky material consists of greenstones, which are rocks formed by the alteration of primary rocks from submarine volcanism with a basalt composition. This volcanic activity occurred in the early Paleozoic era (Cambrian–Ordovician), approximately 450–500 million years ago. Despite later transformations, in the Okole greenstones, the original structures of submarine lava have been preserved in some places. These structures include “pillows” with lengths up to 1 m and thicknesses up to 0.5 m, often flattened into an oval shape due to pressure during tectonic movements.
The Okole ridge abounds in rock formations of various shapes, numbering several dozen. They occur at the summit and in several clusters between the peak of Okole and Leśniak (677 m), situated a bit further to the west. Two largest groups are Sołtysie Rocks and Mszaki, each consisting of a dozen or so rocks. The highest rocks exceed 10 metres in height, and their length reaches up to 20 metres.
Tower and viewing point
The summit rock platform on Okole provides a good vantage point in the southern direction. It served as a viewpoint even before World War II when it was secured with metal railings. It was reconstructed in a different form in 2018.
Description: Piotr Migoń
Single Tracks – cycling trails
In 2019, the Kaczawskie Single Tracks were opened for use. Two out of the five trails available in the region are routed through the Okole massif. The cycling trail runs through picturesque corners of the forest, adjacent to the viewpoint at the summit. Maps of cycling trails on Okole, photos, and practical information are described here.
Trip route to Okole
(The map presents the route in one direction, return the same way or using adjacent marked trails.)
