WELCOME TO THE OTTAWA GEOSCIENCE HUB

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Explore Ottawa Geology and Environment

A Guide to the Ottawa GeoHub

Canada's capital has a remarkably diverse geological and environmental history. Across the Ottawa area, preserved outcrops, geological formations and natural landscapes record an immense span of time—from Precambrian rocks more than a billion years old to deposits, landforms and environments shaped during the last Ice Age just over 11,000 years ago. Together, these features reveal a fascinating geological and environmental record waiting to be explored.

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Explore the Ottawa GeoHub

Discover more than a billion years of geological and environmental history

Explore geological and environmental stops and field experiences throughout the Ottawa region, where ancient bedrock, younger sediments, Ice Age landforms and natural environments reveal dramatic changes in the landscape through deep time.

⌕ What to Take

We recommend bringing a hand lens or magnifying glass, hiking boots or sturdy shoes, a camera, notebook and pen, and clothing appropriate for changing weather conditions.

The Geodiversity Education Foundation encourages responsible exploration: take pictures, not samples, and leave your rock hammer at home.

! Safety
There is always some risk when visiting a geological and environmental field site, but that risk can be greatly reduced by using good judgement, remaining aware of your surroundings and understanding the hazards associated with each location.

When viewing outcrops or geological and environmental features near roads, remain as far from traffic as possible. Avoid climbing unstable outcrops and stay on established paths wherever possible. Visit field sites with at least one other person whenever practical and keep appropriate local emergency contact information available.

★ Ottawa GeoHub Rating Guide

Ottawa GeoHub experiences include information about their approximate difficulty, duration and accessibility to help you choose an experience that is right for you.

Difficulty

Rated from 1 to 5, from easiest to most challenging. A rating of 1 represents an easy walk, while 5 may require a higher level of fitness or involve more demanding terrain.

Duration

Indicates the approximate amount of time needed to complete the experience and explore its featured geological and environmental stops.

Accessibility

Rated from 1 to 3. Level 1 means all or many stops are easily accessible; Level 2 means some stops are easily accessible; Level 3 indicates that stops may not be easily accessible.