Discover the fossils of Burgess Shale, preserved for over 508 million years in the heart of Kootenay and Yoho national parks. These extraordinary remnants from the pre-dinosaur era bring to life a time when our world was blanketed by expansive shallow seas, offering us a glimpse into the diverse marine ecosystem of that epoch.
Today, these fossils are found nestled among rocky mountains, with incredible details such as eyeballs and brains intact – a testament to the rich biodiversity that once thrived on our planet. Join us on this fascinating journey through time, it’s truly an archaeological goldmine!
Join Parks Canada on an exhilarating guided hike. These three strikingly locations ensure a remarkable experience for all hiking enthusiasts.
WALCOTT QUARY
Embark on an enlightening journey through one of the globe’s prime paleontological treasures. Witness delicate soft-bodied fossils that astonishingly tie to contemporary marine life. A combined delight of breathtaking views and fascinating fossils awaits you.
Commence this iconic venture at the incredible Takakkaw Falls, featuring majestic outlooks of Emerald Lake from an elevated perspective. Traverse through awe-inspiring mountain terrains while gaining insights about the unique Burgess Shale inhabitants, their fossilization process, and how they were remarkably discovered atop a mountain in the grand Yoho National Park.
Difficulty: Difficult | Return Distance: 24-km | Elevation Gain: 900-m | Duration: 11-Hours | Hours: 7am to 6pm | Meeting Point: Takakkaw Falls Parking Lot in Yoho National Park
MOUNT STEPHEN
Unearth the mesmerizing universe of trilobite fossils, diving into a deep sea of its anatomy, preservation, and history that will far exceed your wildest imaginations. The Burgess Shale adventure awaits you, promising a journey of learning that treads through arduous terrains etched in the sands of time.
Embrace an invigorating hike to the eminent Mount Stephen trilobite beds, a site boasting legendary vistas of Field, BC. This iconic site marked the genesis of ‘stone bug’ discoveries as reported by railway workers in the 1880s. Indulge in the thrill of unearthing countless trilobites while basking in the awe-inspiring panoramas of the Kicking Horse River. This remarkable adventure promises to expand your horizons, quench your curiosity, and leave you with unforgettable memories
Difficulty: Difficult | Return Distance: 8-km | Elevation Gain: 800-m | Duration: 7.5-Hours | Hours: 7am to 2:30pm | Meeting Point: Yoho National Park Visitor Centre in Field, BC
STANLEY GLACIER
Take a bold step into history with magnificent vistas, Unearth these newly discovered fossils of ancient organisms, from a mystical third eye to jackknife-like claws, and discover how they connect to our modern life.
This family-friendly hike, an impeccable introduction to the marvels of the Burgess Shale, with a trail that’s accessible to all. Venture through a forest reborn from fire, surrounded by wildflowers and lodgepole pines, cross a vibrantly turquoise river, beside cascading waterfalls and feast your eyes on the tremendous Stanley Glacier.
Lying within the mystic confines of the Stanley Glacier basin, numerous unparalleled species, yet unknown to man, await your exploration. Among these extraordinary species is the Cambroraster – an ancient arthropod concealed within a shell, astonishingly akin to the famed Millennium Falcon spaceship.
Difficulty: Moderate| Return Distance: 10-km | Elevation Gain: 365-m | Duration: 7-Hours | Hours: 7:30am to 2:30pm | Meeting Point: Stanley Glacier Trailhead in Kootenay National Park
In the interest of conserving our natural treasures, it must be noted that the collection of fossils, rocks, or any other historical or natural objects within the National Park is strictly prohibited. Additionally, to partake in guided hikes, it is mandatory to make reservations ahead of time.
Confidently venture into the world of the Burgess Shale with the handy Online Exhibit on Google Arts & Culture. Navigate through the rich history of fossil sites in Yoho and Kootenay national parks, appreciating the impact of the unique findings there. This is an insightful stepping-stone for anyone keen to take a guided hike or seeking a swift, comprehensive introduction to the Burgess Shale.
