Warsaw Triad: Gigantic Potholes EarthCache
Hidden : 10/16/2010
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:


Welcome to Warsaw Caves Conservation Area.

This area is well-known for the effects of vertical erosion, including Karst formations (developing fissure caves), Kettle formations and Potholes formations along the topography of the land. This Earthcache will take you on a wonderful tour of the area highlighting beautiful geological wonders from our Glacier period. As such, due to the ecological sensitivity and the geological significance, The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources has deemed the entire Warsaw Caves Conservation Area to be an Area of Natural Scientific Interest (ANSI).

How did this event occur?

Melt water from glacial runoff flowed from Glacial Lake Algonquin into Glacial Lake Iroquoi (today's Lake Ontario). All this melt water traveled through Warsaw developing significant vertical erosion amongst the Limestone topography of the land.



How did the potholes form here?

They developed in the depressions of limestone channels. These depressions trapped boulders and pebbles which swirled around by eddies and drilled down into the river bed. This drilling of kettle holes is one of the most powerful mechanisms of vertical erosion. As the holes deepen, the water plunges in and keeps the stones and boulders spiraling, making its way deeper into the limestone. As the boulders wear away and are swept out as finer material, new boulders take their place and carry on drilling. As such, potholes may join together to greatly deepen a river channel. In front of a waterfall very large potholes may develop in the floor of the plunge pool.


Before you go: Be aware that this location has an entrance fee during peak operating seasons. Additional fees apply for vehicle entries. Please be respectful of others and the environment. The fissures, the uneven terrain, and other natural features of the park can be hazardous. To access this earthcache, please remain on the identified trail. Visitors use the site at their own risk and must exercise caution.


For additional information on location updates, operating times, fees, and summer and winter trail conditions: visit: www.warsawcaves.com

Above all, enjoy the geology and have fun out there. Happy Caching!

TO LOG THIS EARTHCACHE:
You must bring your measuring tape and GPS. Feel free to bring hiking shoes and even knee pads.

In order to log this EarthCache you must complete the following:
1. Include with your log, a photo that clearly demonstrates that you visited this Earthcache. You do not have to be in the photo as per policies. However, including a picture of the area, although optional, is the best way to display your visit.

2. Due to the vertical erosion, What is the depth and width of the pothole nearest to GZ? Email us your findings.

3. How many other significant potholes can be found within 20m radius of GZ? Have a look around, explore a bit and see what tally you can come up with. Email us your findings.

4. While exploring, note if the pothole at GZ are coarse, smooth, or jagged? Email us your findings and explain if this area received a lot or a little vertical erosion during the glacial runoffs?

5. Note the name of trail that you are walking on. Do you believe that the name is properly identifying this geological wonder? Research the title of the trail and based from this Earthcache, Email us your explanation if you agree or disagree with the choice.




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