Devonian Fossil Gorge, Western Iowa Travel Guide

The Devonian Fossil Gorge offers a unique opportunity to walk across a 375-million-year-old ocean floor. This extraordinary geological site was uncovered by the floods of 1993 and further exposed in 2008, when the Iowa River overflowed the Coralville Dam's spillway. The rushing waters eroded the landscape, revealing a treasure trove of fossils from the Devonian Period.During the Devonian Period, Iowa was located south of the equator and covered by a warm, shallow sea, much like the Caribbean today. This sea teemed with marine life, including corals, brachiopods, and crinoids. The fossilized remains of these creatures are now embedded in the limestone bedrock of the gorge, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. Visitors can explore the gorge and discover these ancient fossils, with interpretive signs providing insights into the site's history and geology.The Devonian Fossil Gorge is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The site features an entry plaza with stone monoliths displaying interpretive exhibits. A handicap-accessible walkway leads to an overlook, and brochures are available for self-guided tours. Visitors are welcome to explore the gorge during daylight hours, but collecting or damaging fossils is strictly prohibited and subject to a fine.