Nature & Science

Florissant Fossil Beds is a 6,000 acre wonderland of meadows, forests, and wildflowers. The Monument is a great place to experience and learn about the Montane ecosystem and its plants and animals.

Beneath the ground is one of the richest and most diverse fossil deposits in the world. With fossils ranging from massive petrified redwood tree stumps to tiny fossils of insects and plants, the Monument provides opportunities to explore life 34 million years ago.

 
Hiker on trail approaching rock formation

Natural Features & Ecosystems

The natural features at Florissant Fossil Beds are a showcase for the geologic history of the area.

Pasqueflowers

Plants

With a mixture of forests and meadows, shrubs and wildflowers, Florissant provides wonderful opportunities to experience a montane ecosystem

Golden Mantle Ground Squirrel in front of a small tree stump

Animals

At 8,400 feet and in the Montane life zone, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument provides for a wide range of wildlife.

The Big Stump

Fossils

View some of the the photo galleries to explore the fossils of Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.

 

Last updated: September 11, 2022

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 185
Florissant, CO 80816

Phone:

719 748-3253

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