Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Pictures courtesy of the -Jasperdo: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in Colorado offers an incredible glimpse into the distant past, with one of the richest fossil deposits in the world. Known for its giant petrified redwood stumps and beautifully preserved insect and plant fossils, this monument provides a window into a prehistoric ecosystem from 34 million years ago. The surrounding Pikes Peak region enhances the experience with breathtaking scenery and hiking opportunities. Combining scientific significance with natural beauty, Florissant is a must-visit destination for fossil enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

Website:	Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Florissant Fossil Beds Visitor Center: This modern facility offers educational exhibits about the region’s 34-million-year-old fossils, including preserved insects, plants, and petrified wood. Visitors can view a short interpretive film, explore hands-on displays, and gather trail maps and activity information from knowledgeable staff.
How to get There:	From Denver (Colorado): Take US-24 West towards Woodland Park, passing through Divide. Continue west on US-24 for approximately 14 miles until you reach the marked entrance for Florissant Fossil Beds. Signs will guide you to the monument’s Visitor Center. From Colorado Springs (Colorado): Drive on US-24 West for 35 miles, passing through Manitou Springs and Divide. Look for the signs pointing to Florissant Fossil Beds and follow the access road to the main entrance.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in Colorado showcases a prehistoric landscape frozen in time, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region’s rich fossil record. Millions of years ago, the area was a lush forest with a massive lake, volcanic activity, and diverse wildlife. Volcanic eruptions buried the environment under layers of ash, creating conditions perfect for fossil preservation, including petrified redwood stumps and an array of insect and plant fossils.

Among the monument’s highlights are the Petrified Forest Loop Trail, which leads visitors to ancient petrified trees, and the Fossil Learning Lab, where experts interpret fossil discoveries. At the Visitor Center, engaging exhibits and real fossil samples help connect visitors to the park’s unique scientific heritage. Families enjoy hiking the easy Hornbek Homestead Trail while exploring both natural and historical landscapes.

The monument’s scientific significance lies in its fossil resources, which provide essential insights into ancient ecosystems, climate change, and evolution. Florissant Fossil Beds also serves as an outdoor laboratory for researchers and as an educational platform, inspiring awe and curiosity about Earth’s history.

Points of Interest:

Petrified Forest Loop Trail: A must-see trail that leads to ancient petrified redwood stumps, providing a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric ecosystems preserved for millions of years. Easy and family-friendly, this trail is perfect for exploring the monument’s geologic wonders.

Fossil Learning Lab: Discover the science behind the monument’s world-class fossil collection through hands-on activities and educational exhibits. Visitors can view real fossils and learn how paleontologists uncover the secrets of Earth’s ancient past.

Hornbek Homestead: Step into the past by exploring this reconstructed 19th-century homestead. It provides a glimpse into early pioneer life alongside the monument’s prehistoric attractions.