Some Of Best Preserved Fossils In the World Are Right Here In Wyoming

When you think about Wyoming history, you probably picture pioneers and cowboys, but we have a rich history that goes back millions of years.

The proof of that can be found at Fossil Butte. Discovered in the 1870s even before Wyoming was incorporated as a territory, the limestone layers that make up the butte have been fascinating geologists, paleontologists, and the general public for centuries. It's a treasure-trove of some of the most well-preserved fossils in the entire world.

Fossil Butte is a national monument on over 8,100 acres about 10 miles west from Kemmerer.

The fossils found here are well-preserved and display amazing detail.

The area also has the distinction of being the world's largest deposit of fossils of freshwater fish.

When you arrive, make the visitors center your first stop.

That's where you can view a huge collection of some of the fossils found nearby.

Most of the fossils at Fossil Butte are fish, including herring, perch, and paddlefish. However, there are also samples of plantlife...

...birds...

...and other critters.

Some look strikingly similar to creatures still living...

...and some are odd specimens that haven't been seen for eons.

Once you've gotten familiar with the different types of incredible fossils that have been found here, take a hike on the nature trail.

It's a 1.5-mile loop that takes you on a tour of the area, providing more interesting facts about Fossil Butte.

It's a terrific opportunity to see first-hand the awesome job nature did at preserving prehistoric life.

What do you enjoy most about visiting Fossil Butte?