The spirit of discovery is alive and well at Florissant Fossil Beds. The Monument has an active paleontology program. The Fossil Excavation Program is a series of demonstrations, ranger-guided programs, teacher training and curriculum, podcasts, and exhibits that will help you understand the exciting scientific exploration that continues at Florissant Fossil Beds.

Fossil Excavation Demonstrations

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day the Monument offers daily fossil demonstrations at the Fossil Excavation Site and also in the Fossil Lab. Please call ahead and check for times.

Shale Splitting

• wmv» (1.42MB) mp4» (3.43MB)

• How do we find fossils?

Teachers and Students

During the summer, the Monument offers a teacher training to provide teachers a solid background in the geology and paleontology of the Florissant valley. In addition, teachers learn about the paleontology program and learn how they can use the Monument and its facilities to enhance their students' learning through onsite field trips.

Students that visit Florissant Fossil Beds will be able to visit the Fossil Excavation Site, Fossil Lab, and the Simulation Excavatioin Site.

Teachers and students that are not within reach of the Monument can learn more through our online curriculum.