Joppa Hill
Amherst, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, USA
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Joppa Hill is in Amherst, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, USA, near Bedford, with coordinates 42° 56' 2'' N, 71° 34' 55'' W.
It features minerals like Vesuvianite, Epidote, and Scheelite, formed in contact metamorphosed limestone and quartz veins.
The area has a history of mineral discovery in the 19th century, now part of a conservation area with educational programs.
Climate is humid continental, with cold, snowy winters (26.42 inches average snowfall) and warm summers, supporting diverse ecology like meadows and forests.
Geographic Location
Joppa Hill is located in Amherst, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, USA, close to the town line with Bedford. It sits at coordinates 42° 56' 2'' North, 71° 34' 55'' West, in a rural, conservation-focused area. Nearby settlements include Bedford (5.6 km away), Mont Vernon (8.7 km), Amherst (8.8 km), Pinardville (9.0 km), and Goffstown (9.7 km), offering a glimpse into New England’s quaint village life. The area is part of a larger network of trails, making it accessible for enthusiasts exploring the region.
Minerals and Geology
Joppa Hill is a hotspot for mineral collectors, known for its diverse and rare specimens. Key minerals include Vesuvianite, Epidote, Scheelite, Ilmenite, Pyrite, K Feldspar, Malachite, and more, formed in contact metamorphosed limestone and quartz veins. The geological structure suggests a history of intense heat and pressure, creating a rich environment for these crystals to thrive.
History and Culture
Discovered in the 19th century by Dr. Matthias Spalding, who found unusual rocks in stone walls, Joppa Hill was later studied by geologist Charles Jackson in 1844. Today, it’s part of the Joppa Hill Educational Farm, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving agricultural heritage and offering educational programs, trails, and community activities.
Climate and Ecology
The climate is humid continental, with cold winters averaging 26.42 inches of snowfall and warm summers. The ecology includes meadows, forests, a beaver pond, and a seasonal stream, with efforts to manage invasive species and conserve natural habitats, enhancing the area’s appeal for nature lovers.