Plan your visit to Fossil Butte National Monument with our travel guide. Discover the rich fossil deposits, scenic hiking trails, and nearby attractions in southwestern Wyoming.
Fossil Butte National Monument, located in southwestern Wyoming, is a wonderland for paleontology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This protected area is home to one of the richest fossil deposits in the world, dating back to the Eocene Epoch, approximately 50 million years ago.
Top Attractions:
Visitor Center: Learn about the prehistoric life that once inhabited the area through a variety of exhibits, displays, and interactive programs.
Fossil Quarry: See where fossils are actively being excavated and observe paleontologists at work during the summer months.
Scenic Drive: Take a drive through the park to see the diverse landscape and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Hiking Trails: Explore the park on foot by taking one of the many hiking trails available, such as the Nature Trail or the Historic Quarry Trail.
Fossil Country Frontier Museum: Located in nearby Kemmerer, this museum showcases the rich history and paleontological heritage of the region.
Hams Fork River: A great spot for fishing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors.
Bear River State Park: This nearby state park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and picnicking facilities.
Kemmerer Coal Mine Overlook: Get a glimpse into the area's coal mining history with a visit to this overlook.
Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop: This scenic drive provides the opportunity to see wild horses in their natural habitat.
High Uintas Wilderness: Located a bit further away in Utah, this wilderness area offers stunning scenery and plenty of hiking and camping opportunities.
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking: The park offers several trails that range in difficulty, providing opportunities for both novice hikers and experienced trekkers.
Bird Watching: The area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for bird watchers.
Photography: Capture the beauty of the landscape, wildlife, and fossil beds with your camera.
Picnicking: Enjoy a meal in the great outdoors at one of the park's picnic areas.
Fishing: The Hams Fork River and other nearby streams are popular for fishing, with the chance to catch trout and other species.
Hunting: The region around Fossil Butte is known for its hunting opportunities, with game species such as elk, deer, and antelope.
Mountain Biking: There are several mountain biking trails in the area, offering the chance to explore the landscape on two wheels.
Rock Hounding: The region is known for its rich fossil deposits, and there are several locations where visitors can hunt for fossils.
Camping: In addition to the camping options within the monument, there are several campgrounds in the surrounding area that offer both developed and primitive camping sites.
ATV Riding: There are designated trails in the area that are open for ATV riding.
Wildlife Watching: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, antelope, birds, and more.
Dining and Staying:
Dining:
Within Fossil Butte National Monument, there are no dining facilities. However, the nearby town of Kemmerer offers a range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Staying:
For accommodations, you will also need to head to Kemmerer or other nearby towns, as there are no lodging facilities within the monument.
For those looking to camp, there are several campgrounds in the surrounding area that offer both developed and primitive camping sites.
Practical Information:
Fossil Butte National Monument is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed in the winter due to weather conditions.
There is no entrance fee to the park.
The nearest town with accommodation is Kemmerer, which has a range of hotels and motels to choose from.
Fossil Butte National Monument is a unique destination that offers visitors the chance to step back in time and explore the ancient world that once existed in this part of Wyoming. Whether you're interested in paleontology, hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, this park has something to offer everyone.
