Please ensure that you can manage the elevation gain prior to signing up

In 1909, high on the western slope of Mt. Field, Charles Walcott, paleontologist and Secretary to the Smithsonian Institution, discovered fossils. Now known as the Burgess Shale, this site is widely believed to contain the world's finest Cambrian-aged fossils. These exquisitely preserved fossils are a legacy that draws many visitors to Yoho National Park each year.
In recognition of the unique and exceptionally well preserved fossils of soft-bodied marine organisms that lived in Cambrian seas 515 million years ago, the Burgess Shale was identified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. The diverse and sometimes bizarre animals preserved in the shales represent a complete ecosystem that existed only a very short time, relatively speaking, after the first explosion of multicellular life on earth.
Since their discovery, the fossils of the Burgess Shale have provided scientists with a wealth of information about the variety of Cambrian life forms, some of which are difficult to classify into familiar categories of modern or fossil taxonomy.

These life forms have given scientists a valuable glimpse into the nature of evolution itself. The fossils provide evidence that suggests the evolution of life on Earth has been characterized by rapid diversification and random extinction rather than by an orderly progression of "survival of the fittest". Continued research by the Royal Ontario Museum here in Yoho, and by other scientists elsewhere in the world will further our understanding of the process of evolution.

Protection of such a unique, fragile and globally important site is the responsibility of the park. At the same time, we recognize that opportunities must exist for people to learn about their world heritage. To accommodate both of these goals, access to the fossil beds is by guided hikes.

The collecting of fossils and other natural objects or artifacts in the area is strictly prohibited. However, a one hour fossil splitting exercise will take place before the hike and any fossils that are found can be kept! ~YEAH:-) !~

The hike to the Mt. Stephen Fossil Beds is a difficult 8-hour return trip. Elevation gain is 780 metres in 6 km RETURN.This hike may resemble an easy scramble (although it is describe as a hike, the elevation gain is huge for the distance)

Guided hikes to the trilobite beds on Mt. Stephen are led by licensed private guides. All hikes are by reservation only; a limit of 15 people per hike ensures a quality experience and security of the fossil site. Guides are licensed and knowledgeable. They provide valuable interpretation of the Burgess Shale fossils and the park's other natural features.

PAYMENT: The cost for the guided hike is $75 per person. I have 8 spots on hold until Friday! You must pay in full when registering or you WILL be moved to the wait list.

Payment Method:
Online email money transfer: If you have a bank account with TD, BMO, CIBC, RBC, or Scotia,you can use their online banking system to send me an email money transfer. Choose a security password and let me know what it is. My email is: galberts@shaw.ca

Please DO NOT SEND ME PAYMENT IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST.

http://www.burgess-shale.bc.ca/guided-hikes/stephen

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