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Top Geological and Volcanic Landmarks of the Westside

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West Kelowna is home to Mt Boucherie, a dormant volcano that erupted over 50 million years ago. Because of this, there are several areas around the community that budding geologists can hope to see some volcanic explorations.

Mt Boucherie is the most prominent volcanic exploration to see, as you can spend as little as a half an hour or a half a day exploring Mt. Boucherie. Parts of the trail are easy enough for the whole family to do, while other parts, such as the north east face of the mountain should be reserved for more experienced hikers. Please be aware of the signs, as part of the mountain is on private property.

 

GEOLOGICAL AND VOLCANIC LANDMARKS OF THE WESTSIDE

Kalamoir Regional Park
• By accessing the park from Collens Hill Road, close up views of dacite, in a column formation, can be seen.

Mt. Boucherie
• Several columnar blocks of dacite, as well as streams of ancient lava flow, can be seen on the mountain. Access to the mountain can be gained through Eain Lamont Park.
• Sandstone cavities can be seen at the base of the mountain along Boucherie Road.

Gellatly Road
• Carved clay due to glacial advances can be seen along Gellatly Rd & Boucherie Rd.

Hwy 97/Glenrosa Road Overpass
• Fossil tree trunks and thin coal seams can be seen in the bedrock next to the Glenrosa overpass where Gellatly Road (South) begins.

Glen Canyon Regional Park
• Glacial meltwater has dramatically cut a 100 metre deep canyon in this park. Thin coal beds can be seen along the canyon walls.

Rose Valley Regional Park
• There are several caves in this park that are thought to be a result of large air bubbles in the lava.