How big is Big Rock?
July 3, 2008 · Updated 1:48 PM
Coupevilles Big Rock is described by geologists as a glacial erratic. Such rocks were scattered hither and yon by the glacier that covered these parts more than 10,000 years ago.
George Biehl of Skagit Valley Colleges geology department described Coupevilles specimen as an extraordinarily big rock, although he had no exact dimensions.
Coupeville resident Bill Skubi wrote a few years ago that the rock is 30-feet high. He sees it as a good starting point for exploring the town and Ebeys Prairie reserve. It marks the geographic and geologic center of the reserve and the region, a sort of geophysical you-are-here marker, Skubi wrote.
Local resident Lillian Dean Huffstetler said a geologist told her Big Rock is the largest erratic rock in the whole state. It was called Rock of Ages in her grandmothers time, she said.
Biel said another glacial erratic on North Whidbey can be found on the way to Deception Pass. It is located off to the left at the intersection with Banta Road. But its nowhere near the size of Big Rock.
Wedgwood Rock in Seattle is another well-known glacial erratic. Pictures show it is about twice as high as an adult, but it appears to be less than half the size of Big Rock.
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