• Massive petrified redwood stumps

    Florissant Fossil Beds

    National Monument Colorado

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  • Exhibit Installation May 14 - 22

    New exhibits will be installed in the new visitor center May 14 - 22. Access to the park film and exhibits may be reduced. You may want to consider visiting after May 23 if you schedule permits. The park remains open every day from 9am - 5pm.

History & Culture

The fossils, rocks, hills, and valleys that make up Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument reveal to us an ancient story of redwood forests, volcanic eruptions, and a climate much different than today. In addition to a rich ancient history, the Florissant valley also contains the stories of prehistoric hunting and gathering Paleo-Indians, the Ute and Jicarilla Apache peoples, the travels of a pioneer nation, and of early scientists making their way through discovery into a different time.

History and Culture Section was researched and created by Cynthia Havenik.

Learn more about the history of the Florissant Valley by attending Hornbek Homstead Day during the summer.

 
HH old building_a
Hornbek Homestead built in 1878

Did You Know?

An elk herd in Florissant Fossil Beds NM

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument provides excellent habitat for a variety of mammals including bears, mountain lions, porcupines, ground squirrels, and a small herd of elk.