Go Back in Time at the Florissant Fossil Beds

By Christine Loomis

TIME TRAVELERS: Hornbeck Homestead near the entrance to Colorado’s Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument (courtesy, Colorado Tourism)

Fossils found at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument range from tiny insects to a massive brontothere.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: Day-Tripping FAQ

Distance from Denver: 105 miles Attractions: Fossils/science, history, tours, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing Ages: 5 to adult More Info: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Highlights include: petrified redwood stumps 14 feet in diameter; one of the richest fossil deposits in the world—1,700 species have been discovered in these beds; 14 miles of hiking trails; a museum with fascinating fossil displays; and ranger-led tours. Don't miss seeing scientists at work in the fossil beds and lab. In winter, snowshoe or cross-country ski the trails and meadows (bring your own equipment). There's no lodging or camping in the monument, but options abound nearby in towns like Woodland Park (18 miles), Manitou Springs (32 miles), or even Colorado Springs (37 miles).

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