Media

Guide unearths the geological history
of the Eau Claire Gorge during NBMCA hike July 26

(North Bay, ON, July 11, 2019)  Explore a natural adventure that began millions of years ago here in our own back yard during the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority’s annual hike at the Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area Friday, July 26.

“The Eau Claire Gorge and the Amable du Fond River were shaped by two geologic events – faults and glaciers.  Geologist Larry Dyke, whose passion for geology fostered a long career with the Geological Survey of Canada, will be our guest guide on this walk through the earth’s history,” said Sue Buckle, NBMCA Manager Communications and Outreach.

People can register for the hike, and reserve a seat on a bus which departs North Bay at 8:15 am by calling NBMCA at 705-474-5420. The bus departs from the New Ontario Brewery, 1881 Cassells St. but you must call to reserve a seat.  Fee for the hike and bus are by donation; pay what you can.  The hike, which begins at 9:30 am, is sponsored by Eagle Tree and Landscaping Services.

Please note that portions of the trail are rugged and steep.  You need to be reasonably fit, physically well and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the 1.5 hour hike.

The 120 ha (400 acre) Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area is rich in history. The highlight of the 1.9km trail is the spectacular Amable du Fond River waterfall which drops 12m (40ft) through the 18m (60ft) high walls of the Gorge.

“Hundreds of millions of years ago, as the earth's crust cracked, the rock along these fault lines shifted. As the glacier moved through the area, it dug deep into the fractured rock moving it out of the fault zone leaving behind the steep-sided gorge known as the Eau Claire Gorge through which the Amable du Fond River flows,” said Buckle.

The Eau Claire Gorge Conservation Area is located in Calvin Township. From Highway 17, travel east towards Mattawa. Turn on Highway 630 and follow the signs. Entrance to Eau Claire Gorge is on the right (Graham Rd).  If you are meeting us at the Gorge, please call first to register. 705 474-5420.