Pico do Itabirito, Protected mountain peak in Itabirito, Brazil.
Pico do Itabirito is a mountain ridge with iron ore deposits that rises to about 1,586 meters and is colored throughout by red-hued rock. The formation consists of a single massive hematite block that colors the entire landscape with intense reddish tones.
The area was long a site of iron mining that drove the founding and growth of surrounding settlements. In the 1980s it was placed under official protection to preserve its natural significance.
The mountain takes its name from the iron ore that colors its rock face deep red, a feature that defines the local landscape. When you visit, the distinctive coloring of the stone is immediately visible and shapes how locals see their region.
Hikers should start from town on well-worn paths and look for local guides who can share information about trail conditions and the landscape. The ground becomes slippery when wet, so caution is needed after rain.
The mountain holds a striking amount of iron ore concentrated in a single ore block, which makes it a rare geological formation. This scale of concentrated ore deposits is quite unusual in the region.
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