Please call 208-933-4105 to talk to a park ranger. However, if the phone lines are down, contact a ranger through email at hafo_information@nps.gov
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Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Idaho
During the Pliocene, this place looked quite different. Lush wetlands, forests, and grasslands provided excellent habitat for a variety of animals. From fascinating, now-extinct creatures like the saber-toothed cat, mastodon, and ground sloth, to more familiar animals like horses, beavers, and birds, the scientific study of Pliocene fossils is the key to Hagerman.
About Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a national monument located in Idaho. Hagerman, Idaho, gets 10 inches of rain per year. On average, there are 213 sunny days per year in Hagerman, Idaho. The July high is around 94 degrees. The January low is 22. Our comfort index, which is based on humidity during the hot months, is a 78 out of 100, where higher is more comfortable. The US average on the comfort index is 44.
The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is located about one mile north of downtown Hagerman on US Highway 30.
💰 Entrance Fees & Passes
Entry to Hagerman Fossil Beds is completely free. There are no general entrance fees or vehicle passes required to access this park unit.
🥾 Things to Do
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument offers visitors a diverse selection of outdoor experiences. You can participate in a wide array of activities, most notably Auto and ATV, Scenic Driving, Food, Picnicking, and 10 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 Hagerman Fossil Beds
📋 Visitor Planning Tips for Hagerman Fossil Beds
- →Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the main gates or trailheads of Hagerman Fossil Beds 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 2 active alerts for Hagerman Fossil Beds. Keep an eye on the alert notifications at the top of this guide for crucial information regarding closures or safety issues.
- →Leave No Trace: Help protect the delicate ecosystems of Hagerman Fossil Beds. Stay on marked trails, pack out all of your waste, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
During the Pliocene, this place looked quite different. Lush wetlands, forests, and grasslands provided excellent habitat for a variety of animals. From fascinating, now-extinct creatures like the saber-toothed cat, mastodon, and ground sloth, to more familiar animals like horses, beavers, and birds, the scientific study of Pliocene fossils is the key to Hagerman.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hagerman Fossil Beds
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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