Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument | American Tour Association

TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Petrified forest & ancient ecosystems

Petrified redwood stumps and fine fossil deposits reveal an ancient Colorado ecosystem. Meadow and forest trails connect the scientific story with a landscape very different from its prehistoric past.

Fossil redwood stump — Walk the Petrified Trail Loop to see fossil redwood stumps
NPS Photo · Photo credits

palaeovespa, ancient wasp — Captured 34 million years ago, this ancient wasp and other insects are on display at Florissant Fossil Beds NM.
NPS Photo · Photo credits

BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

01Petrified Forest Loop
02Visitor-center exhibits
03Hornbek Homestead area

Before you go

Check tour and building access. High-elevation weather and exposed trail sections require flexible plans.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.