The sagebrush-covered hills of southwestern Wyoming have long been a mecca for fossil research. Travelers can learn more about the abundant finds—fossilized fish, birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and plants—during a visit to Fossil Butte National Monument near Kemmerer.
The visitor center, which is open year-round, has more than 300 specimens on display in its exhibit areas. Many travelers explore the National Park Service-managed site on driving tours, although the road is closed throughout the winter and early spring.
Daily fossil preparation demonstrations are a popular option during the summer. Held in the science lab at the visitor center, these programs outline the tedious and delicate process the park’s scientists go through to get fossils ready to be displayed. Rangers also lead the half-hour-long Porch Talks and Timeline Walks during the high season.
At the Research Quarry travelers can get an up-close look at the work of paleontologists and learn how fossils are discovered and collected. They hear about ongoing research, help look for fossils, and record the findings of the day as part of these 90-minute programs that are held from June to September.
The spring and fall are prime times for hiking and wildlife viewing, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer ways to explore during the winter months.
For more information, go to nps.gov/fobu.
Top photo: Display at Fossil Butte National Monument
Photo by CC Flickr/Matthew Dillon: bit.ly/31JLSR8
