When you think about Wyoming history, you probably picture pioneers and cowboys, but we have a rich history that goes back millions of years.
The proof of that can be found at Fossil Butte. Discovered in the 1870s even before Wyoming was incorporated as a territory, the limestone layers that make up the butte have been fascinating geologists, paleontologists, and the general public for centuries. It’s a treasure-trove of some of the most well-preserved fossils in the entire world.
Fossil Butte is a national monument on over 8,100 acres about 10 miles west from Kemmerer.
Steve Douglas/Flickr
The fossils found here are well-preserved and display amazing detail.
carfull…home from Mongolia/Flickr
The area also has the distinction of being the world’s largest deposit of fossils of freshwater fish.
Dorret/Flickr
When you arrive, make the visitors center your first stop.
urbanguy/TripAdvisor
That’s where you can view a huge collection of some of the fossils found nearby.
urbanguy/TripAdvisor
Most of the fossils at Fossil Butte are fish, including herring, perch, and paddlefish. However, there are also samples of plantlife…
James St. John/Flickr
…birds…
James St. John/Flickr
…and other critters.
James St. John/Flickr
Some look strikingly similar to creatures still living…
James St. John/Flickr
…and some are odd specimens that haven’t been seen for eons.
Claudia F/TripAdvisor
dasandman/TripAdvisor
Once you’ve gotten familiar with the different types of incredible fossils that have been found here, take a hike on the nature trail.
urbanguy/TripAdvisor It’s a 1.5-mile loop that takes you on a tour of the area, providing more interesting facts about Fossil Butte.
It’s a terrific opportunity to see first-hand the awesome job nature did at preserving prehistoric life.
Photo Credit
What do you enjoy most about visiting Fossil Butte?
Steve Douglas/Flickr
carfull…home from Mongolia/Flickr
Dorret/Flickr
urbanguy/TripAdvisor
James St. John/Flickr
Claudia F/TripAdvisor
dasandman/TripAdvisor
It’s a 1.5-mile loop that takes you on a tour of the area, providing more interesting facts about Fossil Butte.
Photo Credit
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