Ranger Programs

Park Ranger working in fossil preparation lab.

NPS photo

One of the best ways to experience a national park site is by participating in a ranger program! Fossil Butte National Monument offers a variety of ranger programs during in the summer months.

Fossil Preparation Demonstrations

The fossils we see in exhibits and museums didn't come out of the rock that way! To display fossils takes a lot of work and patience. Learn about the tools paleontologists use while you observe the delicate process of a ranger preparing a fossil in our Visitor Center's scientific lab. This program is offered most days during the summer.

 

Geo-scientist with visitors at the Research Quarry.

NPS photo

Fossil Quarry Program (Summer Only)

Ever wonder how fossils are found and collected? Join us in the Research Quarry and learn all about the real life work of a paleontologist and our ongoing research.

This program is available Fridays and Saturdays from June 25, 2021 through August 14, 2021 11 am to 3 pm. Prepare to hike a 1/2 mile up-hill, gaining about 300 feet in elevation. Be aware that there is no shade, water, or restrooms available at the quarry. Restrooms and water are available at the start of the Nature Trail, where you will begin this walk. Wear comfortable hiking boots and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you have not been to the quarry before, we suggest stopping by the Visitor Center for specific directions.

All fossils found and collected will remain in Fossil Butte's museum collection for scientific study. There are private, commercial quarries in the area where you can pay to dig for fossils. For information on private quarries, please visit the Fossil Basin Promotion Board webpage.

Reservations are not required. If you want to see the data from the fossils collected in the quarry, download the Fossil Lake Quarry Data Spreadsheet. If you do not see recent data, check back as the document is updated periodically.

 

Park Ranger with visitors outside.

NPS photo

Ranger Talks

• Porch Talk: Learn about the fossils or geology of Fossil Butte in this 15-25 minute program. Offered weekends and some weekdays during the summer.