A primary goal in developing this trail system was to minimize impacts to resources while providing visitor access through the Research Subzone otherwise closed to the public. Paleontological and cultural resource surveys were conducted and an Environmental Analysis prepared for public comment. Previously disturbed lands were used where feasible.
The Rim Trail starts at the Regional Trail Head. This trail provides panoramic views of the Hagerman Valley and steep canyons of the Monument below as you pass through the high desert vegetation, which includes sagebrush, rabbit brush, spiny hopsage, four-winged salt brush, and bitter brush.
Along the plateau rim you will see white colored rock locally called caliche. It is a "hard pan" of calcium carbonate common to desert soils that is undercut here by erosion in the soft sediments and can collapse. Sometimes hawks and golden eagles roost under the ledges or on top of power poles.
The Rim to River Trail follows a ridge with a power line, it provides close up views of two deep canyons where you can see the layers of sediments deposited from subsequent floods in the ancient environment more than three million years ago. The sediments from these successive floods buried the animals whose bones became fossils. The "horse quarry" can be viewed on a distant ridge to your left (north).
At the lower portion of this trail, you will see yellow fiberglass stakes that mark the game hunting zone extending from the shoreline. Hunting was established on that portion of the Monument by Congressional legislation. If you are using the trails in this subzone during hunting season, wear orange. This trail crosses the irrigation pump station road about two miles from the Regional Trail Head and continues to the river.
The River Trail starts in a grove of trees that were not there forty years ago as shown by historic photos. The irrigation project to the west introduced an unnatural source of water. This caused conditions for Russian olive, a species introduced in windbreaks, to invade the site. Sediments washing down the canyon deposited soil as did the periodic flooding along the Snake River that occurred prior to dam construction. This allowed native black cottonwood trees to germinate and grow along with two species of willow. Because such groves have tremendous wildlife benefit, Monument staff undertook a project to remove some of the Russian olive to plant more black cottonwood trees. Enjoy the shade, the rustle of leaves, and the aroma of the river environment.
The trail returns to the road and crosses it, going around the pumping facilities. The trail crosses two creeks as it continues north along the river. You will likely see a variety of waterfowl and possibly quail or pheasant. The River Trail ties into an abandoned dirt road and ends at the north boundary gate. The only return route is along the same trail, a round trip distance of 8 miles. From the north gate, hardy individuals or horses can continue north along a Bureau of Land Management dirt road for another six miles to the Shoestring Road Bridge south of Bliss. The total round trip would be about 20 miles.
The Emigrant Trail allows hikers and horseback riders an opportunity to experience what it was like to travel along the Oregon Trail. Trailheads are across the road from the Snake River Overlook and at the Oregon Trail Overlook parking areas.
The Grand View Trail near the north gate is under construction and goes westerly up to the rim. It will end at the Smithsonian Horse Quarry parking area and will eventually loop back to the Regional Trail Head.
This trail system was developed consistent with the approved General Management Plan for the Monument. The construction was done by a contractor, National Park Service staff and volunteers with assistance from the High Desert Back Country Horsemen and the Boy Scouts, Troop 65 in Twin Falls and Troop 72 in Filer.
This information serves as a guide for the trail system at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. For your safety and comfort, be sure to obey these rules, and signs on the trails.
PLEASE
STAY ON THE TRAIL
To protect the fossils and fragile soils, remain on the trail. Much of the
Monument has been designated as a Research Subzone closed to public use
except for designated trails. Violators will be issued a citation and subject
to fines. Also, staying on the trail will minimize your risk of encountering
rattlesnakes, scorpions, and ticks.
DO NOT GO
TO EDGE OF RIM
Ledges are weak and can collapse.
DO NOT
COLLECT
This is a National Monument for the enjoyment of this and future generations.
Do not gather, pick, or disturb rocks, animals, plants, or fossils.
HORSES
Please be sure your horses have been eating Certified Weed Free hay or cubes,
as required by all of the National lands in Idaho. This will help prevent
the introduction of noxious weeds in the Monument.
PETS ON LEASH
Pets must be constrained on a leash. Hunting dogs are permitted in the game
hunting zone during state-designated seasons.
BE PREPARED
Wear appropriate gear and expect rapid changes in weather, including high
winds. Carry and drink water. There are two creeks flowing from unnatural
sources and this water is not recommended for human consumption.
The trails are remote and there are no toilet facilities along the trails.
Do not exceed your fitness levels. It is a long way for help.
BE AWARE
An effort has been made to accommodate a variety of users. Bicycles need
to keep speed at a level where stopping for hikers or horses is feasible.
Horses may be able to pause where bicycles or hikers can safely pass. Courteous
interaction by all users is always appreciated.
REPORT VIOLATORS
We hope your experience in the Monument is safe, enjoyable, and memorable!