The book investigates the geological formations resulting from glacial activity in a specific region of Alberta. George Mercer Dawson, a prominent geologist, presents his findings on the glacial deposits found in the vicinity of the Rocky Mountains. The work details the types of deposits, their distribution, and their relationship to the geological history of the area, drawing upon extensive fieldwork and observational data.

This work by George Mercer Dawson is a foundational text in Canadian geology, specifically concerning the Quaternary glaciation of the Rocky Mountain region. Its detailed observations and systematic approach established key understandings of glacial processes and their impact on landscape formation in Alberta. The publication is recognized for its rigorous scientific methodology and its contribution to the geological mapping of Western Canada. It remains a valuable reference for geologists studying glacial deposits and paleoclimates of the area.