Gilsum's annual Rock Swap & Mineral Show, which takes place each summer, is a nationally known mineral show. The event, which raises money for children's recreation programs, has been supported by volunteers since 1964. The Stone Arch Bridge is an engineering marvel. Created by dry-stacked stones, it has spanned the Ashuelot River, connecting Route 10 with Surry Road, since the late 1,800's.
Mining history: Gilsum was a center for mining of minerals such as felspar, mica, beryl and quartz in the 1940s and 1950s. Inactive mines still dot the area. One, the Beauregard mine, is still actively operated by Toveco for its beryl, quartz and mica. Once mined commercially for use in electronics, today beryl cyrstals are prized by mineral collectors. Specimens can be seen at the annual Rock Swap & Mineral Show. Lucy Mack, mother of Mormon church founder and prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. was born here in 1775.
Bear Den State Park includes trails through steep, rock legdes. Hikers can view "pot holes" created by glacial movements.
Vessel Rock, on Vessel Rock Road, is a giant boulder that's nearly as large as the home beside it.
The Deep Hole, located just downstream from the Stone Arch Bridge, is a popular swimming hole along the Ashuelot river. If you can make it down the steep ledges a deep pool of water awaits. Some jump off a giant boulder next to the swimming hole.
The Devil's Chair - This ledge, jutting out from the cliffs just above the Deep Hole, is so named because while it's relatively easy to climb down onto it, its nearly impossible to get back up. More than one person has had to be rescued from this spot.