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John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Image of fossil leaves preserved in shale
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John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Sheep Rock
 
Image of the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center located at Sheep Rock.

NPS photo

Thomas Condon Paleontology Center houses the monument's fossil collection.

Located at the Sheep Rock Unit are several hiking trails and wayside exhibits, two picnic areas, and two interpretive facilities: the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, and the Cant Ranch Historical Museum. The Paleontology Center features exhibits, interpretive programs, and audiovisual presentations on fossils, geology, and the processes of paleontology.
 
Image of the Cant Ranch house.

NPS photo

The historic Cant Ranch house now features an exhibit on cultural history of the John Day Valley.

The Cant Ranch Museum, located one-quarter mile away, serves as the monument headquarters and contains indoor and outdoor exhibits relating the history of human settlement on the ranch and regional area.
 
Image of the Blue Basin trail area.

The vibrant colors in the basin delight the eye and create a memorable experience for those who venture here.
A paleontologist working on a fossil.
Paleontology in the park.
Check out the park collections, ancient flora and fauna, and bios of the park's paleontologists.
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 Image of the blue basin.
Trails at Sheep Rock
Explore the beautiful hiking trails at the Sheep Rock Unit.
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Image of the Painted Hills from the air.
This aerial photo was taken by a park visitor.
Planning to visit the Painted Hills?
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Image of fossilized alder leaves

Did You Know?
The fossil leaves found at the Painted Hills represent an assemblage of broad-leaf deciduous trees that were growing on the edge of lakes and streams.
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Last Updated: July 25, 2006 at 00:22 MST