Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a United States national monument in the south central region of Colorado. It is known for a large abundance of Eocene Epoch fossils, ranging from imprints of twigs and seeds in shale to massive ancient fossilized Sequoia tree stumps which can be more than 40 feet in diameter. Unlike many national parks, Florissant Fossil Beds operates on standard business hours, 8AM to 6PM in the Summer months, 9AM to 5PM in the Fall, Winter, and Springs months.
"Florissant" is French for "flowering" or "flourishing".
Take US Highway 24 west from Colorado Springs for 30 miles to the small town of Florissant, then turn south on Teller County Road 1 for 2 miles. The road runs through the middle of the park.
Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2020 are:
Most of the park is accessible by well maintained trails.
There are 15 miles of hiking trails in the park.
The visitor center has the usual history books, games, clothes, children's activities, among other things.
There are 3 picnic areas in the park: one near the visitor center; the Barksdale Picnic Area off of Lower Twin Rock Road; and at the Hornbek Homestead.
Several vending machines near the visitor center offer a variety of soft drinks.
There in only one non-affiliated place to sleep in the park, and no places in the town of Florissant.
Plenty of lodges are located in the nearby towns of Cripple Creek, Woodland Park, and others.
The nearest place to camp would be Mueller State Park or the Pike National Forest, flanking the park to the East and West.
Continuing south 18 miles on County Road 1 will lead to the city of Cripple Creek, a popular town rich with gold mining history and gambling casinos.
Related: United States National Parks
2nd-order administrative division
Primary administrative division