This thesis comprises a study of the Swan River formation in Manitoba. The formation is composed predominantly of quartrose sandstone and is of Lower Cretaceous age. The mineralogical and textural characteristics of this formation are described in detail. Structural and stratigraphic features are discussed and are illustrated by means of structure contour and isopach maps and structural cross sections. The characteristic lithologies of the Swan River and its underlying and overlying formations, its depositional environment, and its possible source areas are treated in detail. Results of this study suggest that the Swan River formation in Manitoba can be really divided into a North Swan River and South Swan River. The two are stratigraphic equivalents but differ mineralogically and texturally, in their type of depositional environment, and in their source areas.