Is digging for fossils on your bucket list? If not, then you’ll definitely want to add it. After all, Idaho is home to a seriously unique fossil park where you can actually dig for your own historic treasures! These fossils are believed to be up to 15 million years old and you’re even allowed to take home what you find. This is a unique activity that will thrill both young and old, so what are you waiting for? Grab your rock pick and head to this amazing park.
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Let’s face it. We’ve all thought about what it would be like to go digging for fossils. Well it turns out you can do just that right here in Idaho! Granted, you won’t be digging for dinosaur bones, but you’ll still come across some pretty neat finds.
A visit to the Clarkia Fossil Beds makes for a super unique way to spend the day. For just $10 per person, you can dig to your heart’s content and uncover incredible fossils of ancient plants and even some species of fish.
These amazing fossil beds were formed in a lake roughly 15 million years ago. The lake’s cold water and rapid sedimentation formed the perfect conditions for creating fossils. You’ll be surprised by just how well-preserved many of the fossils are. Some have even retained their fall colors! It’s as if these ancient specimens have truly been frozen in time.
The fossil beds indicate that this region of Idaho was much warmer and wetter than today’s, similar to that of southern Florida’s current climate. Uncovering these fossils is truly like taking a glimpse at a side of Idaho that nobody has seen before. It’s an incredible feeling that you won’t soon forget.
There are a few tools available on-site that are meant to be used for prying layers of the hillside apart. However, you’ll definitely want to bring your own shovel and ax. This is definitely a “do it yourself” venture.
The Clarkia Fossil Beds are a true hidden gem and it’s likely you’ll have the place to yourself when you visit. It’s unique destinations like this one that remind us that there’s always something new and exciting to uncover here in Idaho!
Remember to store your fossils responsibly after uncovering them. Newspaper makes for an excellent wrapping material for protecting fossils. Treat yourself to something different and keep this place in mind the next time you’re looking for a fun family activity. You’ll find this fascinating fossil park at 52743 ID-3, Clarkia, ID 83812.
