Stone Mountain itself doesn't change the surface in a direct, active way. It's a massive granite formation, and while it's a prominent feature on the landscape, it's essentially static.

However, its presence influences the surrounding environment in a few ways:

* Erosion: Over millions of years, erosion by wind, rain, and ice has shaped Stone Mountain, carving out valleys, canyons, and other features. This process continues slowly, constantly reshaping the surface around the mountain.

* Microclimate: Stone Mountain's sheer size can create a distinct microclimate in its shadow. This can affect the types of plants and animals that thrive nearby, influencing the surface vegetation and overall ecosystem.

* Human activity: Due to its iconic status, Stone Mountain has been a site of human activity for thousands of years. This has led to changes in the surrounding landscape, including deforestation, agriculture, and development.

Therefore, while Stone Mountain itself is a static entity, it plays a significant role in shaping the surface through passive processes like erosion and influencing the microclimate, ultimately impacting the surrounding environment.