Visiting the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, Nova Scotia
Experiencing a Bay of Fundy Geological Treasure
Jul 19, 2008
The fossil cliffs at Joggins, NS, have long been recognized for their outstanding contribution to man’s understanding of life on Earth. The area provides the best glimpse at the geological history surrounding the Carboniferous Period, yielding a comprehensive record of life 300 hundred million years ago.
The Joggins fossil cliffs and beach offer up a rich panorama, representative of the Coal Age: ancient footprints and reptiles, plants and trees. The Bay of Fundy tides (highest tides in the world) have uncovered a comprehensive geological record in over 15 kilometers of rugged sea cliffs. The cliffs contain paleontological finds that have resounded the world over, representing major stages in the history of Earth.
- The fossil cliffs at Joggins have expanded scientific parameters and influenced the likes of scientists such as Darwin, who mentioned them in his landmark work, On the Origen of Species.
- Sir Charles Lyell, referring to the Joggins fossil cliffs, stated: "the finest example in the world of a natural exposure . . . occurs in the sea cliffs . . ..”
The Joggins Fossil Center
The recently opened Joggins Fossil Center situated atop the fossil cliffs at the Joggins site is sure to attract a worldwide audience. The center includes lab space for researchers, provides interpretive programs and fossil displays, and offers transportation to and guided walking tours of the beach and surrounding area.
Joggins Fossils
- Insects
- Amphibian and reptile footprints and remains
- Fossilized plants and trees
Joggins Fossil Facts
- Fossils were discovered in the cliffs at Joggins pre-1852.
- The Joggins site has yielded remains of fossil life in three ecosystems: 96 genera, 149 species of fossils, and 20 footprint groups.
- The Joggins Fossil Center contains the world's largest collection of 300 million year old (and even older) fossils.
Erosion is ongoing as twice daily powerful tides sweep the expanse of beach and girdle the Joggins fossil cliffs. When the waters recede, new fossils are exposed. At times, fossil remains are found deposited on the huge beach below.
Joggins Fossil Institute
The Joggins Fossil Institute conducts ongoing research and educates the public on the importance of preserving this unsurpassed record in the rocks in an ecologically responsible manner for future generations.
A walk along the Joggins beach can't help but impress upon visitors the awesome power of nature. The rugged windswept beauty of this wild stretch of coast, bordered by fossil cliffs that stretch out for miles is sure to inspire and educate all.
- The Nova Scotia government has designated the fossil cliffs at Joggins a protected site.
- The Joggins fossil cliffs have, as of July 2008, become part of the network of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites.
Driving Directions
- From Halifax: 2-3 hours
- From Moncton: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Click on pictures for enlarged views.
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