Hiking the Geologic Trail

View from the overlook on the Geologic Trail

The Geologic Trail is a self-guided 1.2 mile (round trip) trail that that highlights over a billion years of geologic history of the Florissant valley. It passes over the ancient lake bed, crosses County Road 1, then ascends past the remnants of a massive pyroclastic flow, and ends at a scenic overview of the Florissant valley.  

Details

Duration

30-60 Minutes

This trail could be hiked fast out and back in about 30 minutes. If you take your time to read exhibits, stop and contemplate, it might take 60 minutes. 

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

This trail is 1.2 miles round trip and ascends 105 feet to an overlook of the Florissant valley. Part of the trail is on a wide gravel path, then the trail crosses a two lane county road, then a foot bridge, and then ascends a narrow rocky trail to the overlook. 

Age(s)

7-90

This trail is not stroller friendly although a baby in a back pack carrier works fine. Otherwise, children should be old enough to hike 1.2 miles and ascend a narrow rocky trail. The trail is not accessibly built/graded and includes a steep section where footing can be an issue.  

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on any trails at Florissant Fossil Beds. They are allowed, on a leash, in the parking lot, and adjacent picnic area in front of the visitor center.  

Activity Fee

Yes

There is a $10.00 fee to enter Florissant Fossil Beds and it covers all of the trails. That is for anyone 16 or older. Anyone 15 or younger is free. Interagency passes are accepted. They will get the pass holder and three other adults into the park. 

Location

Geologic Trail

The Geologic Trail is a 1.2 mile (round trip) self-guided trail. It is easily accessed by going behind the visitor center and starting to walk on the Petrified Forest Loop until you reach the trail junction for the beginning of the Geologic Trail.  

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

The Geologic Trail is a 1.2 mile (round trip) trail that can be accessed behind the visitor center and off the Petrified Forest Loop. The trail begins on a gravel, 6 foot wide section that is part of the Petrified Forest Loop. After about .1 miles on this section you'll come to the junction of the beginning of the Geologic Trail. From there, the trail ascends about 20 feet on a narrow trail and then descends 20 feet down again using wooden steps. Then the trail crosses a two lane county road and continues on a narrow dirt/rock trail until it comes to a foot bridge that has three steps on either side. Then the trail ascends a narrow rocky path for about 105 feet to the over view.