Step back in time over 500 million years and explore the wonders of the Burgess Shale, a remarkable rock bed teeming with exceptionally preserved fossils. Far older than dinosaurs, these ancient marine creatures offer an unprecedented glimpse into the dawn of animal life on Earth and, surprisingly, hold a deep connection to our own ancestry.
Unearthing the Burgess Shale: A Fossil Treasure Trove
Imagine a world vastly different from our own, where shallow seas covered the landscape now encompassed by the majestic Kootenay and Yoho National Parks in the Canadian Rockies. It was in this ancient ocean, around 508 million years ago, that the Burgess Shale was formed. Today, nestled high in the mountains, these shale rock beds contain a fossil record unlike any other.
The Burgess Shale fossils are celebrated globally for their extraordinary preservation. Unlike typical fossils that primarily showcase bones and shells, the Burgess Shale reveals the delicate details of soft-bodied organisms. Eyes, guts, brains, and other internal organs – features rarely captured in the fossil record – are exquisitely preserved, offering paleontologists a unique window into the anatomy of early life. This exceptional preservation provides invaluable insights into the biodiversity of the Cambrian period, a time known as the Cambrian Explosion, when a remarkable diversification of life forms occurred.
But perhaps the most captivating aspect of the Burgess Shale is its relevance to our own existence. These ancient sea creatures are not just relics of the past; they are our distant relatives. Studying these fossils helps us trace the evolutionary pathways that eventually led to the emergence of modern animals, including humans.
Embark on a Burgess Shale Guided Hike: An Unforgettable Adventure
Do you yearn to witness these incredible Burgess Shale fossils firsthand? To touch a piece of deep time and connect with the origins of animal life? Parks Canada offers guided hikes to the Burgess Shale, providing an exclusive opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With three distinct locations, each offering a unique perspective, there’s a Burgess Shale adventure waiting for everyone.
Why Choose a Guided Burgess Shale Hike?
- Expert Guidance: Learn from knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the Burgess Shale and its significance.
- Exclusive Access: Explore restricted UNESCO sites like the renowned Walcott Quarry and Mount Stephen, areas not accessible to the general public without a guide.
- Touch Real Fossils: Hold and examine some of the oldest animal fossils on Earth – a truly awe-inspiring experience.
- Safe and Engaging: Enjoy a secure and enjoyable group environment, perfect for all ages and experience levels.
- In-depth Knowledge: Gain behind-the-scenes insights and a deeper understanding of the Burgess Shale’s geology and paleontology.
- Spectacular Scenery: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies as you hike to these remarkable fossil sites.
- Canadian Rockies Must-Do: A Burgess Shale guided hike is an iconic and unforgettable Canadian Rockies experience.
Select Your Burgess Shale Expedition: Walcott Quarry, Mount Stephen, and Stanley Glacier
Parks Canada offers three guided hike locations, each providing a unique journey into the Burgess Shale:
Walcott Quarry Burgess Shale guided hike location in Yoho National Park
Walcott Quarry Hike
Journey to Walcott Quarry, one of the most significant paleontological sites globally. Discover delicate soft-bodied fossils that reveal surprising evolutionary links to modern marine life. This challenging hike rewards you with both stunning vistas and unparalleled fossil discoveries.
Difficulty: Difficult
Return Distance: 24 km
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Duration: 11 hours
Schedule: 7 am to 6 pm
Meeting Point: Takakkaw Falls parking lot, Yoho, B.C.
Learn more about Walcott Quarry Hike Reserve your Walcott Quarry adventure now!
Hikers on a Burgess Shale trail observing fossils
Mount Stephen Hike
Delve into the world of trilobites on Mount Stephen. Explore their anatomy, exceptional preservation, and uncover a wealth of trilobite fossils. This demanding hike takes you through steep terrain for an unforgettable Burgess Shale experience.
Difficulty: Difficult
Return Distance: 8 km
Elevation Gain: 800 m
Duration: 7.5 hours
Schedule: 7 am to 2:30 pm
Meeting Point: Yoho National Park Visitor Centre, Field, B.C.
Learn more about Mount Stephen Hike Book your Mount Stephen hike today!
A child examining a Burgess Shale fossil during a guided hike
Stanley Glacier Hike
Experience moderate effort with rewarding views on the Stanley Glacier hike. Discover newly found fossils revealing fascinating details of ancient creatures, including evidence of a third eye and jackknife-like claws, showcasing the links to life as we know it today.
Difficulty: Moderate
Return Distance: 10 km
Elevation Gain: 365 m
Duration: 7 hours
Schedule: 7:30 am to 2:30 pm
Meeting Point: Stanley Glacier trailhead, Kootenay, B.C.
Learn more about Stanley Glacier Hike Reserve your spot on the Stanley Glacier hike!
| Hike Name | Meeting Point Photo | Hike Description |
|---|---|---|
| Walcott Quarry Hike |  Takakkaw Falls meeting point for Walcott Quarry hike |
Begin your classic Burgess Shale journey at the spectacular Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park. |
| Stanley Glacier Hike |  Stanley Glacier trailhead meeting point for Stanley Glacier hike |
The Stanley Glacier hike offers a family-friendly introduction to the Burgess Shale on an accessible trail in Kootenay National Park. |
| Mount Stephen Hike |  Yoho National Park Visitor Centre meeting point for Mount Stephen hike |
Embark on a short but challenging adventure through stunning mountain landscapes and uncover remnants of an ancient sea on the Mount Stephen hike. |
