Fossil Hike To Longyear Glacier

OVERVIEW

Hike through the barren but hauntingly beautiful landscape around Longyear Glacier and look for fossils of plants that were preserved in the sedimentary rocks. The hike will commence in the small settlement of Nybyen, which lies just south of Longyearbyen. Before long, you will cross a braided stream of meltwater flowing from the glaciers farther up the valley. The landscape will soon become moraine, which consists of rocks and soil that the glaciers have left behind as they inch along. The moraine was formed centuries ago as the glaciers in this area are estimated to be 3,000 to 4,000 years old. Although the terrain is constantly changing in accordance with the climate, there is still a certain timelessness to it. Toward the end of the hike, you will walk through several small canyons, onto Longyear Glacier and beyond, where you may spot plant fossils from the Paleogene Period.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Enjoy an easy hike through the rocky barren wilderness around Longyear Glacier.
• Learn about the different landscapes, such as moraine, as you walk through them.
• Gain an understanding of how slowly moving glaciers have shaped the landscape.
• Look for fossils of plants that thrived millions of years ago in the Paleogene Period.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in warm layered clothing.
• Wear waterproof hiking shoes with ankle support.