The Burgess Shale
The Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation contract professional geoscientists, university graduate students and professors to conduct earth science educational guided hikes that will interpret the topics of geology, paleo-biology, climate science, bio-astro-physics and evolution during the hikes and that are developed for geoscience professionals, high school students, teachers, academics and the general public. The Foundation guides have been charged with the responsibility to provide all levels of understanding of these topics. These are Science-in-Action hikes that will pleasantly change your perception of the planet earth we live on forever.
The earth science educational hikes include the following themes:
History of Life on Earth (the story of the Burgess Shale and life that existed before the Burgess Shale)
Rocks and Mountain Building (how these incredible mountains came to be and how the Burgess Shale marine animals, that once lived at the equator over half a billion years ago, died and managed to be perfectly preserved and remain intact during the mountain building processes. As well as the glaciations that scoured this are and how these precious animals can be viewed in-situ at an elevation of 7,600 feet above sea level)
Landforms and Climate Science (incredible geomorphology can be viewed en-route to the Burgess Shale – Walcott Quarry)
The importance of this Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site (that will ensure and provide Protection, Education and Interpretation of the Burgess Shale for future generations)
IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO VISIT THE FOSSIL SITES ON YOUR OWN
They are protected sites within the Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, and can only be visited with BSGF licensed guides. Also, dogs are not allowed on the guided hikes.
Large or educational groups that wish to undertake a guided hike can do so by phoning 1-800-343-3006. These hikes will be scheduled outside of the regularly scheduled hikes. The minimum number per group is 10 and maximum number per group is 15.
Walcott Quarry
The hike to the famous Burgess Shale site takes a full day. See for yourself the Walcott Quarry with its astonishing array of exquisitely preserved fossils. It is sometimes possible to witness active research going on at the site. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and diverse flora and fauna along the way!
Mount Stephen Fossil Beds
Visit the fossil beds on the slopes of beautiful Mt. Stephen, discovered by railway workers in 1886 who reported finding “stone bugs”. A half-day hike to the fossil beds where you will see an amazing number of trilobite fossils. This hike also includes a fossil splitting exercise!
Climate Change in the Rockies
See evidence of climate change in the Canadian Rockies on this stunning hike. From Takakkaw Falls we proceed past the Whiskey Jack Youth Hostel and climb to the Iceline Trail.
Senior Steamers
If you are over 60 and fit, come along on a hike to the Walcott Quarry. This hike is offered twice a month in July and August. Others are also welcome to sign up, provided they can keep up to the Senior Steamers!
Kids Hikes
Guided hikes for young people 13 years and younger. The kids hikes are guided by a certified student and accompanied by an adult co-guide.
Phone 1-800-343-3006 to register
Important!
EVERYONE who participates on any of the guided hikes MUST complete and sign a waiver form and hand it to their guide on the morning of the hike.
Guided Hikes by Parks Canada
Parks Canada hikes to the Burgess Shale are interpretive hikes, which use story-telling and hands-on activities to introduce people to the natural history and cultural heritage of Yoho National Park and the Burgess Shale. The content of these hikes is geared to an audience with no prior knowledge of the Burgess Shale.
For more information visit http://www.burgess-shale.bc.ca/guided-hikes or contact our Concierge at 403-522-1601