Method of extracting hydrocarbons

A method of extracting hydrocarbons entrapped in a land formation includes forming at least one passage into an exposed surface portion of the land formation, such that the passage is formed as a substantially horizontal or as an upwardly inclined passage into the land formation. The exposed surface portion is positioned vertically lower than at least a portion of the entrapped hydrocarbons. The method of extraction includes accessing the entrapped hydrocarbons with the passage, removing the entrapped hydrocarbons from the land formation via the passage, and capturing the removed hydrocarbons. Optionally, the entrapped hydrocarbons may be detected via a directionally-variable seismic exploration system or method, which may include projecting seismic signals into the land formation from different locations and receiving return signals in response thereto. The return signals may provide information indicative of entrapped hydrocarbons within the land formation.