
Overview
About Fossil Butte National Monument.
In the ridges of southwest Wyoming are some of the best-preserved fossils in the world. They tell the story of ancient life in a warm, wet environment in and around a freshwater lake. Stingrays swam in the lake. Turtles basked in the sun. Leaves rustled in the breeze while early horses darted between the trunks. We reveal more of the past with each fossil found.
Weather
Expect a variety of weather conditions no matter what time of year you visit. Spring, fall and winter can be very cold with snow and icy conditions. In spring, daytime temperatures usually range from 30 F to 65 F. Summer daytime temperatures range from 60 F to 90 F. Fall daytime temperatures range from 45 F to 70 F. Winter daytime temperatures range from -20 F to 30 F.
Gallery
Photos of Fossil Butte National Monument.
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Things to do
Discover Fossil Butte National Monument.

Cundick Ridge Trail
1-2 HoursThis unmaintained trail is 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip along an old dirt road. The trail follows Cundick Ridge to an overlook which provides an excellent view of the valley below. On clear days it is possible to see the Uinta Mountains in the distance.
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Eagle Nest Point Trail
1-2 HoursThis unmaintained trail is 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip along an old dirt road. The trail goes along a ridge to an overlook amid limber pine and Douglas fir. The overlook provides a great vantage point to view the canyons and ridges in the distance. This trail can be difficult to follow. Speak to a ranger at the visitor center before attempting this hike.
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Fossil Butte Nature Trail
45-90 MinutesThis 1.5 mile (2.4 km) loop trail winds through sagebrush steppe and aspen groves. The signs discuss the ecosystems of the park and geology's effect on the plants that grow in the park.
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Fossil Butte Scenic Drive
The scenic drive is 5.5 miles one way. The road takes you to the top of the ridgeline where you get great views of the valleys below. Wayside signs interpret the landscape. The last 3 miles is a steep gravel road not recommended for RVs or vehicles towing anything.
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Fossil Butte Visitor Center Exhibits
20-60 MinutesStop by the visitor center to see the fossils of the animals that lived in Fossil Lake 52 million years ago.
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Historic Quarry Trail
1-2 HoursThis 2.5 mile (4 km) loop trail provides an overview of the geology and paleontology of the park and surrounding area.
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Ranger Programs at Fossil Butte
Fossil Butte NM offers several different programs during the summer. Ask about the schedule at the visitor center.
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Rubey Point Trail
2-3 HoursThis unmaintained trail is 3 miles / 4.8 km round trip along an old dirt road. The hike traverses a ridge to an overlook which provides a panoramic view. On clear days it is possible to see the Uinta Mountains and the Bear River and Monte Cristo Ranges.
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