Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: A Window to the Eocene Epoch
Explore a prehistoric redwood forest and delicate fossils at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, a unique window into Colorado's ancient past.
Journey back 34 million years at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, where volcanic eruptions preserved a stunning array of life. Explore giant petrified redwood stumps, delicate insect and plant fossils, and immerse yourself in a prehistoric Colorado landscape. Hiking trails, a visitor center, and night sky programs offer diverse experiences in this unique national monument.
A brief summary to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
- 15807 Co Rd 1, Florissant, Colorado, 80816, US
- +1719-748-3253
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Start your visit at the visitor center to view exhibits and learn about the monument's history and geology.
- Hike the Petrified Forest Loop to see the giant petrified redwood stumps.
- Check the schedule for ranger-led programs, including fossil learning labs and night sky viewings.
- Bring your own snowshoes or cross-country skis in the winter to explore the monument's trails.
- Be aware that the monument has moved to cashless fee collection; entrance fees and pass purchases must be made with a credit/debit card or payment app.
Getting There
-
Driving
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is located 35 miles (45 minutes) west of Colorado Springs. Take US Highway 24 west to the town of Florissant. Turn south onto Teller County Road 1 and follow the signs for two miles to the visitor center. Parking is available at the visitor center. Be aware that the visitor center parking lot gate is locked at 4:30 PM each day; park at the Hornbek Homestead if you plan to stay later. There are no parking fees. Expect occasional construction delays.
Discover more about Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hornbek Homestead
1.5 km
Explore Hornbek Homestead: A captivating historical site in Florissant, Colorado, showcasing the pioneer spirit of 19th-century America amidst stunning natural beauty.
Old Homestead House Museum
20.9 km
Explore the Old Homestead House Museum in Cripple Creek, Colorado, where history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and engaging guided tours.
Ute Pass Historical Society
22.3 km
Explore Colorado's past at the Ute Pass Historical Society, a hidden gem offering captivating exhibits and local history in Woodland Park.
Historic Train Station
22.6 km
Explore the Historic Train Station in Manitou Springs, CO – a captivating landmark showcasing the rich history of rail travel and stunning mountain views.
Mystic San Luis Valley
24.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Mystic San Luis Valley, a hidden gem in Colorado perfect for outdoor adventures and local experiences.
Vindicator Mine headframe
24.8 km
Discover the historical significance of the Vindicator Mine headframe in Goldfield, Colorado, a must-visit for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Wilkerson Pass
24.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Wilkerson Pass, a stunning mountain pass in Colorado perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Vindicator Valley Trailhead
25.2 km
Explore Vindicator Valley Trailhead, a stunning hiking area in Colorado with scenic views and rich mining history, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Stratton's Independence Mine and Mill
25.9 km
Explore the historic Stratton's Independence Mine and Mill in Cripple Creek, Colorado, and uncover the captivating tales of the Gold Rush era amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest
31.3 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities at Pike-San Isabel National Forest, a must-visit destination in Colorado's great outdoors.
Pikes Peak By Rail
31.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Colorado on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders.
Williams Canyon
32.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Williams Canyon, a serene ravine in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Shoshone Spring
32.5 km
Explore the historical Shoshone Spring in Manitou Springs, a serene landmark that showcases the area's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Governor's House
32.8 km
Discover the historical allure of Governor's House in Manitou Springs, where rich history meets stunning Colorado landscapes.
Seven Minute Spring
32.9 km
Experience the historical charm and natural beauty of Seven Minute Spring, a serene landmark in Manitou Springs, Colorado, known for its healing mineral waters.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pikes Peak Historical Society
3.5 km
Explore the captivating history of Florissant and the Pikes Peak region at this engaging local museum.
Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
6.6 km
Discover wolves and wildlife in their natural habitat at this renowned Colorado sanctuary, offering education and conservation experiences.
Mueller State Park
11.2 km
Discover Colorado's natural beauty with hiking, camping, and wildlife at this expansive park near Pikes Peak. Open year-round!
Paradox Beer Company
11.8 km
Discover unique barrel-aged wild and sour beers at Paradox Beer Company in Divide, Colorado, with stunning mountain views and a wayward brewing spirit.
Crags Trail Head
14.7 km
Hike to stunning rock formations on a scenic trail near Pikes Peak, offering year-round outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.
Devil's Playground
19.6 km
Hike to breathtaking views from the Devil's Playground, a scenic stop along the Pikes Peak Highway known for intense lightning storms.
Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum
20.7 km
Explore Cripple Creek's notorious past at the Outlaws & Law Men Jail Museum, housed in the original Teller County Jail. A chilling and historic experience.
Cripple Creek
20.8 km
Discover Cripple Creek, Colorado: A historic gold mining town with casinos, stunning scenery, and a taste of the Wild West.
Gold Mine Tours Inc .
20.8 km
Explore a real gold mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado, and discover the thrilling history of the 1890s gold rush.
Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
20.9 km
Experience a scenic ride through Colorado's gold mining history on a vintage steam train. A family-friendly adventure in Cripple Creek!
Cripple Creek Heritage Center
20.9 km
Discover Cripple Creek's gold rush history at this interactive heritage center with panoramic views and helpful visitor information.
Cripple Creek District Museum
21.0 km
Explore Cripple Creek's rich gold mining history through fascinating artifacts and exhibits at this multi-building museum complex.
Woodland Park
21.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures in Woodland Park, Colorado, the gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
22.1 km
Explore prehistoric wonders at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center in Woodland Park, Colorado - a family-friendly museum with engaging exhibits and fossil displays.
Pikes Peak Summit House
22.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pikes Peak Summit House, where stunning vistas and delicious treats await every traveler.
Essential places to dine
The Loop
32.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at The Loop in Manitou Springs - where every bite tells a story.
Armadillo Ranch Bar, Restaurant, Live Music Venue
32.3 km
Discover Armadillo Ranch: A lively bar and restaurant in Manitou Springs offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and captivating live music.
Border Burger Bar
32.4 km
Discover gourmet burgers at Border Burger Bar in Manitou Springs – where local flavors meet a casual dining experience amidst stunning Colorado scenery.
Cliff House Dining Room
32.4 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst stunning mountain views at the Cliff House Dining Room in Manitou Springs.
Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant
32.6 km
Experience the art of fondue at Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant – where every meal becomes a delightful celebration in Manitou Springs.
Manitou Brewing Company
32.6 km
Discover craft beers at Manitou Brewing Company—where every sip tells a story in scenic Manitou Springs.
The Keg Lounge
32.6 km
Discover delicious grilled specialties and refreshing drinks at The Keg Lounge in charming Manitou Springs.
Swirl Restaurant and Wine Bar
32.7 km
Discover Swirl Restaurant and Wine Bar: Where American cuisine meets exquisite wines in the beautiful backdrop of Manitou Springs.
Adam’s Mountain Cafe
34.9 km
Experience delicious vegetarian breakfasts and warm hospitality at Adam's Mountain Cafe in scenic Manitou Springs.
Amanda's Cantina and Fonda
35.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at Amanda's Cantina in Colorado Springs – a culinary gem offering authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap
36.0 km
Experience the best seafood in Colorado Springs at Chef Bob's Lobstah Trap – where coastal flavors meet Rocky Mountain hospitality.
Grand View
36.3 km
Experience fine dining at Grand View with breathtaking vistas of Garden of the Gods—a perfect blend of culinary excellence and nature's beauty.
Paravicini's Italian Bistro
36.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Paravicini's Italian Bistro in Old Colorado City - a must-visit culinary destination.
Ristorante Di Sopra
36.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Di Sopra in Old Colorado City - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy.
Alchemy
37.1 km
Discover Alchemy in Old Colorado City: A gastropub blending Irish tradition with modern flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pikes Peak Gift Shop
22.6 km
Explore the charm of Colorado at Pikes Peak Gift Shop, where unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship await every visitor.
Pike's Peak Rock Shop
27.1 km
Explore the enchanting Pike's Peak Rock Shop in Cascade, CO, a unique destination for rock lovers with stunning minerals, fossils, and geological wonders.
The Castle Gift Shop
32.0 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Castle Gift Shop in Manitou Springs, where local culture meets historic charm.
The Hemp Store
32.2 km
Explore The Hemp Store in Manitou Springs for unique hemp-based gifts and a glimpse into Colorado's vibrant local culture.
Osburn Gift Shop
32.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at Osburn Gift Shop in Manitou Springs, Colorado—a perfect stop for memorable souvenirs and treasures.
Eagle Dancer
32.3 km
Explore authentic Native American art and crafts at Eagle Dancer, a cultural gem in Manitou Springs, Colorado.
Leprechaun Shoppe
32.3 km
Explore the whimsical Leprechaun Shoppe in Manitou Springs, Colorado, and uncover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of your adventure.
Sante Fe Springs
32.3 km
Explore Sante Fe Springs Gift Shop in Manitou Springs, Colorado, for unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of your travels.
La Tienda
32.4 km
Discover La Tienda in Manitou Springs, where unique gifts and local craftsmanship come together in a delightful shopping experience.
Mountain West Trading USA
32.4 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories reflecting the spirit of the Mountain West at Mountain West Trading USA in Manitou Springs.
Mountain High Gallery and Gifts
32.4 km
Discover unique local art and handcrafted gifts at Mountain High Gallery and Gifts in scenic Manitou Springs, Colorado.
Ten Spot
32.4 km
Explore Ten Spot, your go-to gift shop in Manitou Springs for unique, locally crafted treasures and memorable souvenirs.
Kill Your Culture
32.5 km
Explore the one-of-a-kind novelty store in Manitou Springs, where unique treasures await every visitor looking to embrace Colorado's quirky culture.
Manitou Outpost
32.5 km
Explore Manitou Outpost, a charming gift shop in Manitou Springs, offering unique local crafts and memorable souvenirs to cherish your Colorado adventure.
La Henna Boheme
32.5 km
Discover the essence of bohemian style at La Henna Boheme, a charming boutique in Manitou Springs offering unique women's clothing and gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kinfolks
32.3 km
Experience the lively spirit of Manitou Springs at Kinfolks, a vibrant pub with live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Royal Tavern
32.4 km
Experience the heart of Manitou Springs at Royal Tavern, where local charm meets a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Townhouse Sports Grill
32.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Townhouse Sports Grill, where American comfort food meets the excitement of live sports in beautiful Manitou Springs.
Red Mountain Bar and Grill
32.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Colorado at Red Mountain Bar and Grill, where delicious grilled favorites meet stunning mountain views.
Heroes Hollow
32.6 km
Discover the charm of Heroes Hollow, a cozy bar in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for unwinding with friends and enjoying craft cocktails.
The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room
36.3 km
Experience the best of Colorado Springs dining at The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy atmosphere.
Trails End Taproom and Eatery
36.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Colorado Springs at Trails End Taproom and Eatery, where craft beer meets gourmet cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Nova West
37.2 km
Nova West: Where Craft Drinks Meet a Lively Atmosphere in Old Colorado City, Colorado Springs.
Upstairs Wine Bar
37.4 km
Experience a delightful fusion of wine and craft cocktails at Upstairs Wine Bar, a must-visit destination in Colorado Springs.
The Fifty-Niner
37.4 km
Discover The Fifty-Niner in Old Colorado City, where great food, local brews, and board games come together for an unforgettable experience.
Pub Dog Colorado
37.5 km
Discover the unique flavors of crafted beers and infused cocktails at Pub Dog Colorado, a must-visit bar in Colorado Springs.
OCC Brewing and Restaurant
37.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft brews and delectable cuisine at OCC Brewing and Restaurant in Colorado Springs, a local gem in Old Colorado City.
Colorado Mountain Brewery
37.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft brews at Colorado Mountain Brewery in Colorado Springs, where every bite and sip tells a story.
Mill Hill Saloon
38.0 km
Experience the local nightlife at Mill Hill Saloon, where great drinks and good vibes await in the heart of Colorado Springs.
Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub
38.4 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Voodoo Brewing Company, where unique brews and delicious pub fare await in Colorado Springs.
