Moneyed Waters EarthCache
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(not chosen)
Related Web Page
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
Moneyed Waters
The other hot springs in the Banff area are the Cave and Basin
system. To enter the interpretive centre will require a small
payment (at the time of writing it was $4.00.) This earthcache is
designed so that one can complete it without having to actually go
into the centre. PLEASE STAY ON THE TRAILS. Not only is the
area environmentally sensitive, but it is also home to the
endangered Banff
Springs Snail.
In 1883, these springs were discovered by three workers from the
CP Rail line. They found an underground system, as well as the
above ground streams. Their discovery led to the establishment of
the first ever National Park of Canada.
The hot springs are created by water flowing down through
underground reservoirs that flow 2 kms underground, close to the
hot core of the planet. Like the
other hot springs in the area, this water moves upwards along
the Sulphur Mountain Fault line, cooling as it emerges from such
intense pressure. It carries with it a slight radioactivity, and
other minerals.
There are multiple sites to visit along this tour:
The Basin: N51 10.126 W115 35.480
This is the main location for the original bathing area of Banff.
This water is supplied by an underground hot spring. The Banff
Springs Snail lives in this pool, and is one of the main reasons
that this bathhouse isn’t used anymore. From here, look down and
see the crystal clarity of the water.
The Vent: N51 10.127 W115 35.443
This is the first location from which the hot springs were
accessed. This is the top of the grotto in which the pool is
located. It is now cordoned off by a large iron grate, as you can
see in the photo, but one can smell the chemical in the air.
The Pool: N51 10.113 W115 35.453
The hot springs streams flow down the hill here and collect in
this pool. Some interesting flora can be seen in this pool, and the
smell is tolerable from here. Be sure to see the algae that live in
the water, it may not look appetizing, but it’s got some gorgeous
colours.
The Spring: N51 10.088 W115 35.430
Following up the path, it ends at the spring itself. Hold your
breath and go take a look at it, and you will see why you have to
hold your breath. The chemical responsible bubbles up from beneath
the surface of the water. PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH ANY OF THIS
WATER. According to the
Species at Risk Analysis, even a hand dipped in the water that
has come into contact with mosquito repellent can cause havoc on
the environment of the Banff Springs Snail.
To log this cache:
1) On the interpretive signs in the area, there is a mention of the
chemical responsible for the charming smell. What chemical is
this?
2) These waters are radioactive. According to the signs, what is
the level of radiation comparable to?
3) The hot springs are bringing up a mineral that creates another
form of rock to be deposited in the area. What kind of rock is this
called?
4) Please feel free to post a photo of yourself and/or your
GPSr.
Thanks!
Additional Hints
(No hints available.)