Full Title: Where Deep Time Began: James Hutton, Siccar Point, and Scotland’s Geological Heritage
Led by: Rebecca Taormina and Others!
Date: Thu.-Thu., 28 May–4 June 2026
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
CEUs: 4.8
Description: Celebrate the 300th birthday of James Hutton, the Father of Modern Geology, with an immersive international field experience in Scotland. This special program coincides with the opening of the Deep Time Trail and the Scottish Geology Festival, offering participants a rare opportunity to engage with geology where the concept of deep time was first recognized.
The excursion will focus on Hutton’s most significant localities, including Siccar Point, Hutton’s Section and Memorial Garden in Edinburgh, and segments of the James Hutton Trail, with additional potential visits to Glen Tilt, the Isle of Arran, and Jedburgh. Developed in collaboration with local experts and partner institutions, the program combines in-depth geological interpretation with public lectures and festival events.
This field experience highlights geoheritage, conservation, and international collaboration while strengthening GSA’s ongoing partnership with Scotland’s geological community.
Considerations: The field trip will begin and end in Edinburgh, Scotland, with daily travel by chartered minibus or rental van to regional field sites. Most geologic discussion will occur at established viewpoints, visitor centers, coastal outcrops, and short walking trails. While the itinerary is designed to minimize strenuous activity, several sites—including Siccar Point and select coastal or upland localities—may involve uneven terrain, gravel paths, stairs, or moderate walking on natural surfaces. Full wheelchair accessibility cannot be guaranteed at all stops. Participants should be comfortable with variable weather conditions and extended days in the field. Restrooms are generally available at major visitor sites but may be limited at remote locations. Optional activities will be provided when possible, allowing participants to opt out of more physically demanding excursions.
Participant registration includes lodging (shared accommodations), daily breakfast, ground transportation during the program, daily lunches, snacks and bottled water, site admissions and program fees, and on-site field leadership and coordination. The fee also supports partnerships with local experts and institutions contributing to the educational content of the program.
By purchasing this item, you are buying a seat on an in-person geological field trip.
Please review these Field Safety Documents. You will be contacted to provide your consent to these forms after purchasing a field trip.
For additional information, please contact fieldtrip@geosociety.
Product Code: FT26NM02
Product Category: FTRIP