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Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Divide, Colorado · Teller County

Beneath a grassy mountain valley in central Colorado lies one of the richest and most diverse fossil deposits in the world. Petrified redwood stumps up to 14 feet wide and thousands of detailed fossils of insects and plants reveal the story of a very different, prehistoric Colorado.

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About Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Beneath a grassy mountain valley in central Colorado lies one of the richest and most diverse fossil deposits in the world. Petrified redwood stumps up to 14 feet wide and thousands of detailed fossils of insects and plants reveal the story of a very different, prehistoric Colorado.

How to Get There

Visitors traveling north/south on I-25: Exit at US 24 West, travel 35 miles to town of Florissant, then follow signs two miles south on Teller County Road 1 to the Visitor Center. Visitors traveling from town of Cripple Creek: Follow Teller County Road 1 north for 16 miles.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Heading to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument?

No central reservation system listed for Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2683) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument?

Visitors traveling north/south on I-25: Exit at US 24 West, travel 35 miles to town of Florissant, then follow signs two miles south on Teller County Road 1 to the Visitor Center. Visitors traveling from town of Cripple Creek: Follow Teller County Road 1 north for 16 miles.

How do I contact Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument?

You can reach the park at phone: (719) 748-3253 or email: flfo_information@nps.gov.