"Basalt columns are cooled and solidified basaltic lava. The appearance of this cooled basaltic lava depends mainly on two factors. Erupted lava cools down quite quickly to form a coherent rock structure that solidifies as pahoehoe lava or as aa lava, depending on the temperature and gas content. However, if cooling is delayed, contraction (shrinkage) often results in meter-long polygonal basalt columns (column basalt > volcanic columns), which form perpendicular to the cooling surface, preferably with a quasi-hexagonal (hexagonal) geometry.

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Birgitt

May 12, 2025

Hiking

You'll succumb to the fascination of the basalt columns of the Roßbacher Häubchen when you stand below the summit. Here, in a former basalt quarry, you can see the enormous columns reaching upwards. Part of the columns is lying down so you can view them in cross-section. A little further on, you'll reach a wooden lounger, perfect for a rest. A hut vividly describes the unbelievable working conditions of the basalt miners. There's also a hidden path below the summit where you can walk very close to the basalt walls.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 350 m

Weather

Sunday 15 March

6°C

3°C

64 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

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Basalt Columns at Rossbacher Häubchen

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