Garden Park Fossil Area badlands
Photo: Visit Canon City

Garden Park Fossil Area

Visit one of the world's most significant dinosaur fossil sites where many important Jurassic-era discoveries have been made.

Garden Park Fossil Area has been a significant paleontological site since the 1870s, producing important dinosaur fossils including Stegosaurus and Allosaurus specimens. The BLM-managed site offers self-guided interpretive trails where visitors can learn about the area's rich fossil history. While collecting fossils is prohibited, the educational experience is invaluable. The site played a role in the famous 'Bone Wars' between rival paleontologists Marsh and Cope.

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Last updated: January 15, 2024