The visitor center is fully open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Wednesday through Sunday. On Mondays and Tuesdays, only the foyer is open.
The entrance fee at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is $10 per person for those 16 and older, valid for 7 days. Children under 16 enter free. Annual passes and Interagency Passes are also available.
From Colorado Springs, take US-24 West for about 35 miles, then continue on Teller County Road 1. Immerse yourself in a prehistoric valley adorned with petrified redwoods and ancient fossils, a testament to a bygone era.
Parking is available at the visitor center and designated areas. Cars and motorcycles can park freely. RVs have designated spots, but no overnight parking outside campsites. No parking fees mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of central Colorado, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument unfolds as a surreal tapestry of prehistoric grandeur. Beneath a serene grassy mountain valley, this site harbors one of the world’s most diverse and rich fossil deposits, a testament to an ancient redwood forest that thrived 34 million years ago.
The monument is defined by its colossal petrified Sequoia trees, some stretching up to 14 feet wide, their massive trunks a silent witness to a bygone era. The Petrified Forest Loop, a 1.1-mile trail, guides visitors through this natural wonder, where the remnants of a failed attempt to cut the Big Stump for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair still linger, saw blades embedded in the wood.
The area is a haven for paleontological discoveries, with over 1700 species documented, including intricate fossils of insects and plants. As seasons change, the landscape transforms; winter brings a serene quiet, while summer days are perfect for exploring the monument’s trails and participating in the Junior Ranger program, an engaging way to delve deeper into the site’s history and ecology.
As an International Dark Sky Park, Florissant Fossil Beds offers a nocturnal spectacle that is nothing short of breathtaking. For those interested in local culture, the nearby town of Florissant and the Gold Belt Byway provide a charming backdrop, with artisan towns and historical sites like the Hornbek Homestead awaiting discovery. The Friends of the Florissant Fossil Beds, a dedicated nonprofit, ensures that the monument’s natural and historical resources are preserved and interpreted for future generations.
This unique destination, with its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and scientific intrigue, is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an immersive and enriching experience. Whether you are drawn by the ancient fossils, the star-studded night skies, or the tranquil beauty of the Colorado mountains, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument promises an unforgettable journey through time and nature.
- Area (mi²)
- 9.4
- Annual visitors
- 60 000
- Established year
- 1969
Top 3 Facts about Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
At this site, some of the petrified trees are estimated to have been over 230 feet tall and 500 to 750 years old, providing a unique glimpse into the ancient ecosystem. Microfossils, including millions of pollen grains and diatoms, are also preserved here.
In this montane sanctuary at 8,400 feet, visitors encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including eagles, Stellar’s Jays, and Wyoming ground squirrels. Larger mammals like mule deer and elk roam the grounds, while mountain lions and bears are occasional sightings. The flora is equally impressive, with Arizona fescue, muhlys, and the rare Tetraneuris brevifolia thriving in the alpine landscape. Mountain ball cactus dots the gravelly slopes, and ancient redwood fossils tell a tale of a warmer, subtropical past. This natural tapestry offers a unique glimpse into the Eocene-Oligocene transition, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, a valley once home to a lush forest now reveals its ancient secrets. Here, light gray shales from the Oligocene Epoch, spanning 33.7 to 23.8 million years ago, encase the petrified stumps of towering redwoods. The terrain, covered in a verdant carpet, is punctuated by the remnants of a forest that thrived in a warmer, subtropical climate, now set against the backdrop of mountains that touch the crisp Colorado sky.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 2-3 day visit in late summer to catch the Perseid meteor shower. Arrive early, park near the visitor center, and prepare for rocky trails with sturdy footwear. Pack meals and snacks, and take regular rests to enjoy the scenic hikes. Check weather forecasts before heading out.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof bag. Bring a map, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. For longer stays, include camping gear, a headlamp, and water purification tablets. Don’t forget extra batteries and a multi-tool.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural habits and the environment. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the land as you would your own.assistant
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact and respect the land.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water, and check weather forecasts. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 719-748-3253.
Seasons
In spring, as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, discover a prehistoric world awakening. Join ranger-led tours and interpretive talks from June to Labor Day, and don’t miss the Fossil Learning Lab. Mild weather and fewer crowds make spring an ideal time to explore ancient redwood stumps and fossilized wonders.
In summer, warmer temperatures (70s-80s°F) and clear skies make for ideal hiking and stargazing. Enjoy Art in the Park, Skats and Tracks hikes, and the Fossil Learning Lab. Don’t miss the SUN-Day In The Park event in June, featuring solar observing telescopes. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Experience autumn’s golden hues and crisp 50-60°F temperatures. Enjoy the annual Volunteer Cleanup Day in September, amidst the serene landscape and fossilized wonders. Ideal for a tranquil, nature-immersed visit.
Winter brings crisp temperatures (19-45°F) and serene snowscapes, ideal for tranquil hikes and cross-country skiing. Though cold, the clear skies and minimal crowds make it a unique time to explore, but be prepared for potential road closures and limited facilities. Visit December to February for a peaceful winter wonderland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Colorado Springs to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is about 35 miles and takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. You can follow Highway 24 through the mountain pass to reach the monument.
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Pets are only allowed in the parking lot and a small pet exercise area near the parking lot; they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and cannot be left unattended. Pets are prohibited on all trails, inside buildings, and elsewhere within the monument.
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You cannot park an RV or any type of camper, motorhome, or trailer within the monument. However, there are nearby campgrounds and RV parks where you can park your vehicle, such as Mueller State Park or other local campsites.
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The top attraction is the Big Stump, a massive petrified redwood tree stump that was buried by volcanic mud 34 million years ago. This ancient redwood, which could have reached 230 feet in height, is a major draw for tourists and features broken saw blades from a failed attempt to cut it for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. It is located on the Petrified Forest Loop trail.