PUKASKWA – Ontario geologist Mark Smyk will return to “a place kind of very near and dear to my heart” this August, serving as a volunteer geologist-in-residence and helping visitors connect with the ancient landscape beneath their feet.
From August 11 to 23, Smyk will lead guided walks and informal talks along trails in the park’s “front country,” focusing on areas like North Beach and the Southern Headland Trail.
The residency program, now in its fourth year, aims to deepen the public's understanding of geology and its ties to the broader natural world.
“We’re not just looking at rocks in isolation,” said Smyk. “The geology connects to everything, plants, animals, and the whole ecosystem. It’s about telling the story of Earth in one small area.”
Pukaskwa, stretching along the wild eastern shoreline of Lake Superior, features some of the oldest rocks in Canada, including volcanic formations that are over 2.7 billion years old.
“It’s rare to find so much geological diversity in one spot,” Smyk explained. “From billion-year-old rock to fresh glacial scars, you really get to see Earth’s history unfold.”
Visitors will learn to identify ancient lava flows, glacial markings, and ongoing natural changes that continue to shape the land today.
Smyk is no stranger to the region. A professional associate at Lakehead University and former Ontario Geological Survey geologist, he began working near the park in 1983. Returning now as a volunteer, he sees this as a chance to give back and share his passion.
“I’m happy to devote my time. It’s rewarding to see people start to read the clues in the rocks, like pages in a storybook.”
As for his favourite spots, Smyk says he’s especially eager to revisit trails he hiked years ago and explore what’s new.
“I’ve been on the Southern Headland Trail, but they’ve developed some other trails since I was last there,” Smyk said. “The North Beach geology and there are a couple of other trails that, if I have time, would be interesting to see as well.”
Drop-in sessions and guided hikes with Smyk will take place throughout his residency. Visitors can find schedule details at the park’s visitor centre.
