Smoking Hills

An interesting spot to visit from afar.  Smoking Hills are in Canada's Northwest Territories, and they are a natural phenomenon which has probably been active for thousands of years.  The reason behind this activity is neither human-induced burning nor volcanic activity, but the subsurface exothermic reaction between bituminous shale, the sulfur and the iron pyrite in the area. 

The heat being released through the oxidation of pyrites in the Cretaceous mudstones along the sea cliffs leads not only to high ground temperatures, but also to hot sulfurous gas being driven off and the possibility of spontaneous combustion. 

The fumes that are seen contain sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid and are noxious. 

Unfortunately our very overcast weather did not allow us to get a clear view, but nonetheless it was very atmospheric (and smelly!)

Extra:  Earlier this morning this was the view from our balcony -- the water was so silky and smooth!