Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument encompasses a total area of 5,998 acres of land that is situated 35 miles west of Colorado Springs, Teller County, Colorado. The park is governed by the National Park Service and was established as a national monument on August 20, 1969. 

To access the park, visitors should find Interstate 25 whether they are coming from the north or from the south. Once you are on the I-25, you should take US 24 west and drive 35 miles to the town of Florissant, then follow road signs for about two miles to get to the national monument.

Once at the national monument, visitors will get to see a lot of exciting attractions. For example, the park has a wealth of flora and fauna including many fossil insects, as well as leaves, and seeds of the Oligocene Period. These fossils are preserved here in remarkable detail for today’s and future generations to enjoy. 

Additionally, you can also find a rare display of petrified redwood stumps that are up to 14 feet wide. Besides these attractions, visitors can also enjoy comforts afforded by the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument including restrooms, a picnic area, museum/exhibit, self-guided tours, and visitor center. 

Some of the activities that visitors can also participate in at the national monument include horseback riding, cross-country skiing, interpretive programs, hiking, and guided tours. If you want to bring your dog into Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, you are welcome to do so, but you'll have to maintain the park's strict rules or else you could find your dog kicked out of the park. 

Some of the regulations and expectations regarding your dog are as follows. First, you should keep your dog on a leash at all times. Secondly, if your dog is not on a leash, then they should be in a secure enclosure. Third, dog owners should be aware of the areas of the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument that they can and cannot access.