Our main phone number for the visitor center is temporarily disconnected. Please call 307-877-4456 to reach a ranger.
Fossil Butte National Monument
Wyoming
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.
About Fossil Butte National Monument
Fossil Butte National Monument is a national monument located in Wyoming. 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.
By car: Travel 9 miles west of Kemmerer, Wyoming on U.S. Highway 30. There is a highway sign near mile post 44; turn right onto Lincoln County Road 300. The Historic Quarry Trail is approximately 1/2 mile on the right. Continue west on County Road 300 for approximately 1.5 miles to Chicken Creek Road which provides access to the visitor center, scenic drive, Nature Trail and picnic area. Closest airports: Rock Springs, Wyoming (130 miles); Salt Lake City, Utah (150 miles).
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Fossil Butte is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Fossil Butte National Monument offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Hiking, Junior Ranger Program, Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching, and 3 other recreational activities, depending on the season and weather conditions. Path options exist for both casual strollers and expert backcountry adventurers.
📦 Recommended Gear & Packing Checklist
Custom items selected for activities at Fossil Butte
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Fossil Butte
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Fossil Butte before 8:00 AM. Parking spaces at popular locations fill up extremely fast, especially during warm peak season weekends.
- →Monitor Active Alerts: There are currently 1 active alerts for Fossil Butte. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Altitude & Hydration: The thin air and dry heat in this region will dehydrate you quickly. Pack at least 3 to 4 liters of water per person per day and pack electrolyte replacements.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Fossil Butte. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fossil Butte
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.
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