A park ranger smiles as they lead a group of visitors with binoculars on a trail.
Visitors on a guided hike step over downed tree limbs in a forest with yellow leaves.
A park ranger sits with a young child to look at fossils in their hand.

Hike with a Paleontologist: Fall Fossils

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Special Event
  • Oct 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM
  • Free

National Fossil Day is October 15th, and we are celebrating with ranger-led hikes! Hikes On Saturday, October 17th will have a National Park Service ranger and a paleontologist.

Take a hike through time with a National Park Service ranger to hunt for fossils, learn how they came to be here, and discover how the geology of a waterfall shaped the area. Explore a lesser-known area of the national park, discover one of many hidden waterfalls around the Mississippi River, and enjoy the fall colors. We're going on an urban adventure!

  • Due to the terrain of the route and exposure to steep drop-offs, the hike is rated moderate and is not recommended for children under 5 or adults who need assistance walking.
  • We recommend a 1:1 ratio of child-to-adult if under the age of 8.
  • Participants must be able to walk on uneven, potentially slippery ground and on a steep trail with no barrier fencing.
  • Wear weather-appropriate shoes and clothing.
  • The trail may have multiple downed trees which will need to be traversed, either over or under.
  • Individuals not prepared may be turned away for their safety.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

Shadow Falls Park, 30 N Mississippi River Blvd, St Paul, MN 55104

Latitude and Longitude 44.941919, -93.198608

Schedule

Date:

Oct 17, 2026

Time:

10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

Duration:

1 hour

Event Type

  • Guided Tour
  • Hike
Tags: missnps, mississippi river, findyourpark, paleontology, hike with a ranger, fall colors, shadow falls park