BARABOO HILLS / DEVILS LAKE, WISCONSIN

GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF MINNESOTA
2003 FIELD TRIP NUMBER 2
BARABOO HILLS / DEVILS LAKE, WISCONSIN

Date:  Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29, 2003

Leader:  P. Phillip Fauble, Hydrogeologist, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

HIGHLIGHTS:  The Baraboo Hills region of southern Wisconsin has been a mecca for the study and teaching of the geological sciences for over 100 years.  The unique combination of an asymmetric, doubly-plunging syncline composed of resistant meta-quartzite over 1.45 billion years old, flat-llying Paleozoic sediments and spectacular glacial morainal features, makes the Baraboo Hills one of the most exciting and compact geologic study areas in the Upper Midwest.  We will start our tour at the most exciting and compact geologic study areas in the Hills, Devils Lake State Park.  After a brief overview of the geologic history of the Baraboo region, we will hike up to the top of the bluffs (moderately stressful hike over established trails) to enjoy the spectacular scenery and explore the mysteries of quartzite formation and metamorphism.  After we explore the South Range of the Hills, we will travel to the north range of the syncline with a stop at the Pink Lady Quarry for some collecting.  We will continue to explore the Rock Springs area for quartzite breccia, Van Hise rRck and an artesian spring (bring your water bottles!).  On Sunday , we will further explore the north side of Devil’s Lake with an emphasis on the Cambrian uncontormity.  Next we will stop at Parfrey’s Glen for a look at the massive Cambrian conglomerate sequences and end our day at the Lower Narrows exposure along the Baraboo River.

WHEN AND HOW:  On Saturday, June 28th,  we will meet at 9:00 a.m. near the South Shore concession stand (Red Oak Shelter) on the south shore of Devils Lake State Park.  On Sunday, June 29thy, we will meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Chateau (on the lakeshore – North Shore concession stand) on the north shore of Devils Lake State Park.  We will carpool from both sites (access is limited at most stops).  An admission fee is required to enter the park.  The fee is $5/day or $20/year for residents of Wisconsin or $10/day or $30/year for nonresidents.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  For motel and camping arrangements, visit websites www.baraboonow.com or www.devilslakewisconsin.com or call Dick Heglund at 612-374-1693.

PREPARATION:  Come prepared for any type of weather or terrain.  Be prepared for moderately stressful hiking and bring adequate water .  Bring a bag lunch for both Saturday and Sunday and, if you are driving, have a full tank of gas.  Each field trip participant will be required to sign a waiver of liability prior to the start of the field trip.  Participants will be required to sign a separate liability waiver at the Pink Lady Quarry.

COST:  Cost of the field trip for members is $10 per adult (18 and older) per day.  Non-members pay an additional $5 per day fee.  An admission fee is required to enter Devil’s Lake State Park.

PLEASE CALL:  If you are planning to participat4e in the field trip, please call Dick Heglund.