Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
National Monument · Colorado

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Photo: Kent G. Budge · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Florissant Fossil Beds protects a high mountain valley where ancient ash buried a forest and lake about 34 million years ago. You can see huge petrified redwood stumps, fossils of insects and leaves in the visitor center, and the historic Hornbek Homestead. The short Petrified Forest Loop takes you to the Big Stump and makes a good first walk.

Good to know

Tickets
The monument charges an entry fee, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates.
Time needed
2 to 3 hours for the visitor center, a short loop and the homestead.
Best time
June to September for trails and wildflowers. Winters are cold at over 8,000 feet.
Getting there
Florissant is right next to the monument. Colorado Springs Airport is about 1 hour away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Florissant, Colorado
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Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument questions

Can you dig for fossils at Florissant Fossil Beds?

No, collecting is not allowed in the monument. A private fossil quarry in the town of Florissant lets visitors dig for a fee.

How big are the petrified stumps?

The largest are up to about 14 feet wide. The Big Stump and the Redwood Trio are the best known.

Is Florissant close to Pikes Peak?

Yes, it is about 35 miles west of Colorado Springs, so it pairs well with a Pikes Peak or Cripple Creek day.

Nearby national monuments