Ranger Programs

A ranger working in the fossil preparation lab.

NPS / Gaetano Palazzo

Fossil Butte National Monument offers a variety of ranger programs during in the summer months.

Fossil Preparation Demonstrations

Fossils are often removed from the ground with a layer of rock covering the fossil. Watch a ranger use special tools to carefully remove the rock layer and prepare a fossil for display. This program is offered on weekends and some weekdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check at the visitor center when you arrive for that day's schedule.

 

Ranger intern 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 job of a paleontologist and our ongoing research.

This program is available Fridays and Saturdays from July 4, 2025 through August 30, 2025 11 am to 3 pm (closed Saturday August 16th). Be aware that there is no shade, water, or restrooms available at the quarry. The hike to the quarry is 3/4 mile (1.2 km) with over 300 ft (91 m) elevation gain. Wear comfortable hiking boots and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you have not been to the quarry before, stop by the visitor center for 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, view our research quarry data. If you do not see recent data, check back as the page is updated periodically.

 

Check with the visitor center for a schedule of ranger talks.

NPS / Kyle Olson

Ranger Talks

Porch Talk: Learn about the fossils or geology of Fossil Butte in this 15-25 minute program. Porch talks are offered on weekends and some weekdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check at the visitor center when you arrive for that day's schedule.