Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
National Monument ยท Idaho
NPS/S. Lacy
Pliocene-age site near Hagerman, Idaho
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a Pliocene-age site near Hagerman, Idaho. The 4,351-acre (17.61ย km2) Monument is internationally significant because it protects one of the richest known fossil deposits from the Blancan North American Land Mammal Age. These fossils date from 3.07 million to at least 4 million years ago in age and represent at least 200 species. Hagerman is best known for having the largest known concentration of the fossil Hagerman horse, Equus simplicidens. The fossil beds, including the historic Smithsonian Horse Quarry, were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1975 and was reclassified as a National Monument in 1988.
About Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
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.
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
The road leading to the Monument is a public road and is open 24 hours a day. Access to the Monument Overlooks closes at dusk. The Visitor Center has separate hours. Please be aware that the overlooks and trails are not maintained during winter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument?
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument?
Popular activities at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument include: Auto and ATV, Scenic Driving, Food, Picnicking, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Hiking, Front-Country Hiking.
What is the weather like at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument?
Hagerman, Idaho, gets 10 inches of rain per year. On average, there are 213 sunny days per year in Hagerman, Idaho. The July high is around 94 degrees. The January low is 22. Our comfort index, which is based on humidity during the hot months, is a 78 out of 100, where higher is more comfortable. The US average on the comfort index is 44.
How do I get to Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument?
The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is located about one mile north of downtown Hagerman on US Highway 30.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
Hagerman, Idaho, gets 10 inches of rain per year. On average, there are 213 sunny days per year in Hagerman, Idaho. The July high is around 94 degrees. The January low is 22. Our comfort index, which is based on humidity during the hot months, is a 78 out of 100, where higher is more comfortable. The US average on the comfort index is 44.
Directions
The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is located about one mile north of downtown Hagerman on US Highway 30.
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Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Idaho
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