Fossil Butte National Monument
In the ridges of southwest Wyoming are some of the best-preserved fossils in the world.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
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.
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Driving times from Fossil Butte National Monument, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Fossil Butte National Monument
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Activities
Getting there
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.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Fossil Butte National Monument?
- Popular activities include Birdwatching, Bookstore and Park Store, Hiking, Junior Ranger Program, Museum Exhibits, Shopping.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Fossil Butte National Monument?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Oregon National Historic Trail (1 h 55 min), Pony Express National Historic Trail (3 h 2 min), Timpanogos Cave National Monument (3 h 18 min), Golden Spike National Historical Park (3 h 39 min), California National Historic Trail (4 h 4 min), Grand Teton National Park (4 h 11 min).