News Release

Grand Canyon National Park Celebrates National Fossil Day

Coconino Sandstone in Grand Canyon contains many trace fossils which help scientists learn about previous ancient environments.

NPS

News Release Date: October 1, 2018

Contact: Ronnie Colvin, 817-798-7941

Grand Canyon, AZ- Grand Canyon National Park invites the public to celebrate National Fossil Day on Wednesday, October 17, 2018. Events are designed to celebrate National Fossil Day and will be held throughout the day to highlight the importance of fossils and their uses.

The schedule of events is as follows:

9:00 - 10:00 am, Fossil Walk: The walk will begin at the Bright Angel Trailhead in Grand Canyon Village. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about fossils commonly found at Grand Canyon, as well as explore an ancient fossil bed, known as the Permian Sea bed. Sections of this walk include some easy off-trail hiking, so good walking shoes are recommended.

11:00 am - 2:00 pm, Fun with Fossils: This public event will take place at the Yavapai Geology Museum in Grand Canyon Village. Visitors are welcome to stay for five minutes or the entire time. Park rangers will host several fossil games, as well as several other activities appropriate for all ages.

1:00 - 2:00 pm, Ask a Scientist: Visitors will have an opportunity to meet with Grand Canyon scientists to ask questions about fossils and their importance in the Grand Canyon area. This event will take place at the Yavapai Geology Museum located at in the Grand Canyon Village.

7:30 - 8:30 pm, Paleontology at Grand Canyon: This special evening program will be held at the Shrine of the Ages building near Market Plaza. Some of the questions rangers will address include: What is paleontology? What fossils are found at Grand Canyon? Why are they important? What scientific research is currently happening in the park?

All programs are free to attend and no registration is required. Make sure to check out all the events happening around the country on National Fossil Day.