Description:
The Devil's Punch Bowl is a unique geological formation located on the Niagara Escarpment in the Stoney Creek community of Hamilton, Ontario. This EarthCache will guide you through the fascinating history and geology of this natural wonder.
Please don't park along the road because you can't park there, you will have to pay an $8 fee in the nearby parking lot.
Geology:
The Devil's Punchbowl is a classic example of a waterfall-induced escarpment formation. The escarpment was formed approximately 450 million years ago during the Silurian Period, when the area was subjected to intense tectonic activity. The resulting rock layers have been eroded over time, exposing a stunning display of stratified rock segments. The escarpment is composed of sedimentary rocks, including limestone, dolostone, and shale, which were deposited in a shallow sea that once covered the area. Over time, these rocks were compressed and uplifted, forming a steep slope that stretches for over 1,100 kilometers (680 miles) from Queenston to Tobermory. The Devil's Punchbowl itself is a result of erosion caused by the waterfall, which has carved out a steep-sided gorge over thousands of years. The waterfall has exposed a stunning display of stratified rock segments, showcasing the geological history of the area. The rocks visible in the gorge include:
Limestone: A light-colored, fossil-rich rock formed from the accumulation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) from ancient marine organisms.
Dolostone: A type of limestone that has been modified by the replacement of calcium ions with magnesium ions, resulting in a slightly different mineral composition.
Shale: A fine-grained, layered rock formed from the compression of clay particles.
These rocks provide a unique window into the geological past, offering insights into the region's tectonic history, ancient sea levels, and the evolution of life on Earth.
History:
The Devil's Punchbowl has a rich cultural and historical significance, dating back thousands of years. The area was first inhabited by the Attawandaron people, a Native American tribe that lived in the region until the 16th century. The name "Devil's Punchbowl" is believed to have been given to the area by early European settlers, who were impressed by the unique geological formation and the roaring sound of the waterfall.In the late 19th century, the Devil's Punchbowl became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across North America. The area was developed with hiking trails, observation decks, and other infrastructure to support the growing number of tourists. In 1966, a 10-meter high cross was erected on the site by William Sinclair, a local businessman and philanthropist. The cross was intended as a symbol of peace and unity, and it has since become a prominent landmark in the area. Today, the Devil's Punchbowl is a beloved natural wonder and a significant cultural heritage site. It is protected by the Niagara Parks Commission and the City of Hamilton, and it continues to inspire wonder and awe in visitors from around the world.
Some Other Fun Historical & Cultural Facts:
1. The Devil's Punchbowl was once a popular spot for spiritual and religious ceremonies among the Attawandaron people.
2. The area was also used as a hiding place for escaped slaves during the Underground Railroad era.
3. The Devil's Punchbowl has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, including the famous Canadian rock band Rush's video for "The Trees".
Waterfall Classification:
The Devil's Punchbowl waterfall is an example of a waterfall that drops vertically from a height, with little to no contact with the surrounding rock face. This type of waterfall is characterized by its plunge pool at the base, which is a circular pool of water that forms at the bottom of the falls.The waterfall's vertical drop and plunge pool are a result of the erosion of the rock face over time, which has created a steep-sided gorge. The waterfall's classification is based on its shape, size, and flow rate, which are all factors that contribute to its unique characteristics.
Note: The Devil's Punchbowl waterfall is not officially classified as a specific type of waterfall (e.g. Plunge, Horsetail, etc.), but rather is described based on its observable characteristics.
Logging Requirements:
To log this EarthCache, please make observations standing at the posted coordinates and answer the following questions:
1. Estimate the height of the upper falls?
2. How does the waterflow change as it approaches the upper falls?
3. What is the shape of the pool at the base of the upper falls?
4. How does the surrounding rock face affect the waterfall's flow?
5. Take a photo at The Devil's Punchbowl holding your geocaching name and the date you visited! This must be physical no digital stamps will be accepted! you can be in the photo, but you're not required to be. Any logs without that photo will be deleted without warning.
Update as of October 6th 2024: One group member can submit the awnswers on behalf of the group but each individual must take their own photo!
Update as of August 10th 2025: Any photos that are obviously digitally stamped with your username or date will not be accepted. The date must physically be on the paper or whatever you're holding at the time of your visit.
Favourite:
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