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The search for ammonite fossils near Nanaimo
There are hidden secrets tucked between Nanaimo and Mount Benson. They are large and small and embedded in the rocks. They were also a mystery to me until I discovered them myself.
I'm talking about the fossilized hard shells of extinct molluscs that give Ammonite Falls its name.
The spiral-shelled creatures lived around the time of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago and died out along with the larger creatures of that era. The cause of the extinction is unknown but, of course, there are many theories.
The fossilized molluscs are closely related to squid, octopus and cuttle fish. The name "ammonite" comes from a Roman named Pliny the Eldar, who was a naturalist and author. He called them ammonis cornua ("horns of Ammon") because of their resemblance to the Egyptian god, who was often depicted wearing ram-like horns.
Ammonite fossils look like compact spirals with ridges all the way down. The outside end is open where the creature's tentacles would hang out. The fossils can be found all over the world, from Madagascar to Alberta, and right here in BC.
Even if you make the trek and aren't able to find any ammonite fossils in the area, the 40-ft waterfall provides a cool misty background while you search. The falls runs best during the winter and spring when the rain and snow supply it with a steady supply of water. The pool at the bottom is a good spot for a quick swim in the summer.
Now that's the sign of a hefty mollusc!
To get to the Ammonite Falls trailhead, turn onto the south end of Jingle Pot Road and drive past the Jingle Pot Pub (which has terrific burgers and fries if you need a hearty meal after your hike). About 3km past the pub, turn left onto Kilpatrick Road, then take your first right onto Jameson Road. Park at the end of Jameson Road and take the dirt road past the gate. Follow the dirt road and the signs up the road, then down the hill to Ammonite Falls.
Happy hunting!
Text and bottom photo by Ross Collicutt, top photo by Lorne Collicutt ©
