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.

The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is the only place at the monument to see fossils.

Fossil Exhibits at the Thousand Springs Visitor Center

The Glenns Ferry Formation contains one of the world's richest Pliocene fossil deposits.

Fossil beds along the Snake River

Enjoy scenic vistas and learn about Hagerman's Pliocene past at the Snake River Overlook.

Snake River Overlook in Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Enjoy scenic vistas and learn about Hagerman's human and paleontological history at the Oregon Trail Overlook.

Oregon Trail Overlook at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Jr. Rangers learn about paleontology at a fossil site.

Jr Rangers Learn About Paleontology

A picture of a fossil still incased in the sediment.

A Fossil In Situ

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

A casted fossil is being removed from the Monument and sent to the lab.

Fossil Cast Going to the Lab

Paleontologist prepares a fossil skull for excavation.

Paleontologist Excavating Fossil Skull

Rangers and the Paleo crew excavate an articulated snake.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Directions

Reviews

Nearby Parks

Main Oregon Trail Back Country Byway

Balanced Rock