a modern, pine tree about 30 feet tall is growing out of an exposed petrified tree stump
10-30 MinutesFee applies

Hiking the Ponderosa Loop Trail

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Take a stroll on a short, easy trail through a peaceful Ponderosa pine forest and learn about the area's natural history. The highlight of the trail is a modern Ponderosa pine tree growing out of a petrified redwood tree stump.

The Ponderosa Loop Trail is a 1/2 mile long, accessible, trail located behind the visitor center at Florissant Fossil Beds. This is a short, easy, and peaceful walk through a mostly Ponderosa pine forest. It features numerous exhibits along the trail that interpret the natural history of the area. One of the main features on the trail is a modern Ponderosa pine tree growing out of a petrified redwood tree stump.

Tags

Front-Country HikingForests and WoodlandsFossils and PaleontologyPetrified Woodfossilsfamily hikeaccessible trailinterpretive trail

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Details

Duration

10-30 Minutes

Duration Details

This is a short trail which can be hiked relatively fast. If you take your time to read exhibits and stop and contemplate the scenery it might take up to 30 minutes.

Fees

The fee to enter the park is $10.00 per adult (16 and older). Anyone 15 and younger is free. Interagency passes are accepted and will get the passholder and three other adults into the park.

Fees Apply

Yes

Seasons

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility

The 1/2 mile Ponderosa Loop Trail has been graded for accessibility and is composed of compacted finely crushed rock. The trail width is about 6 feet. The trail can be accessed by going through the visitor center and finding the trail head just beyond the outdoor exhibit area which is behind the visitor center. The parking lot, front patio, visitor center, and outdoor exhibit area leading to the trail head are all accessible. Service animals are allowed on this trail.

Pets

No — Pets are not allowed on any of the trails at Florissant Fossil Beds. They are allowed, on a leash, in the parking lot and/or picnic area next to the parking lot in front of the visitor center.

Reservations

No

Age Info

This trail is easily accessible to strollers and/or carrying a baby in the backpack and is also accessible and can accomodate wheel chairs, walkers, and/or anyone who needs easy grades and a short path.

Location

Ponderosa Loop Trail

View on NPS.govBack to Florissant Fossil Beds

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