A geologist and avid hiker will help residents explore the deep history beneath their feet as she walks participants through some fascinating features of the Bruce Trail.
The Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library will feature Beth Gilhespy on Tuesday, April 21, at 7 p.m.
Her presentation, Geology of the Owen Sound Area in 5 Hikes, will reveal hundreds of millions of years of geological change in the area, using accessible hikes as a lens to understand how the region was formed.
Gilhespy will mix science with storytelling and practical outdoor exploration as she shares parts of her book Walking Through Time: Exploring the Geology of the Sydenham Bruce Trail Section. The area now known for rugged escarpment views and scenic trails was once covered by warm, shallow tropical seas, leaving behind fossil-rich rock formations that are still visible today. Over time, glaciers carved and reshaped the terrain, creating the valleys, cliffs, and karst features that define much of the local landscape.
The five featured hikes will each offer a unique, approachable view of the past, helping connect present-day landmarks to ancient environments dating back roughly 450 million years. Gilhespy has served as CEO of the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy since 2024. Before that, she led the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy and served as CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy for more than 14 years. She has also worked as an environmental consultant and has served on the Niagara Escarpment Commission.
Gilhespy is the author of several books exploring the geology of the Niagara Escarpment, including areas such as Beaver Valley, Sydenham, and the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula. Copies of her books are available through the library and will also be offered for purchase.
To register for the Geology of the Owen Sound Area in 5 Hikes presentation or for more information, contact 519-376-6623 ext. 3 or info@library.osngupl.ca
