Discover Wyoming's ancient past with a hands-on fossil excavation experience in Kemmerer. Perfect for outdoor lovers and history fans alike, this private adventure provides insights into prehistoric life while exploring rugged landscapes. Keep reading to find out what makes this trip unforgettable!
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a basic level of fitness to walk and dig comfortably on uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Kemmerer is known as the 'Gateway to Fossil Canyon' and has a rich history rooted in coal mining and paleontological discoveries.
Conservation
American Fossil emphasizes sustainable excavation practices, ensuring fossils are preserved responsibly to protect Wyoming’s prehistoric heritage.
American Fossil
Discover Wyoming's ancient past with a hands-on fossil excavation experience in Kemmerer. Perfect for outdoor lovers and history fans alike, this private adventure provides insights into prehistoric life while exploring rugged landscapes. Keep reading to find out what makes this trip unforgettable!
American Fossil operates the American Fossil Quarry in Salem, Utah, offering hands-on fossil hunting and paleontology experiences for families, students, and adult enthusiasts. Participants can book timed digs—Two Hour Dig, Four Hour Dig—or secure a Private Dig Package that includes excavation of two cubic yards of rock. The quarry is unique in that visitors keep every fossil they find, spanning rare fish, reptiles, mammals, and birds from the Green River Formation.
Educational Paleontology Experience programs are offered for ages 8–11, 12–15, and 16 and up, combining field excavation with preparation lab sessions. In the lab, participants learn fossil preparation and restoration techniques, create reproductions like an Elasmosaurus vertebra or a dinosaur skull replica, and take home curated specimens such as Mosasaur teeth and Green River fossil fish. American Fossil maintains a professional preparation lab and provides expert-led instruction and safety guidance during field activities.
Bookings are limited to preserve a focused, hands-on environment and ensure staff attention for each group. The business emphasizes factual interpretation of finds and offers takeaway specimens and display stands when included in the experience. Located in central Utah, the quarry enables access to well-preserved Eocene fossils and supports public engagement with paleontology through guided excavation and classroom-style learning. American Fossil’s combination of field access, tangible takeaways, and structured educational programs makes it a reliable choice for visitors seeking an authentic fossil hunting experience. Staff include trained preparators and guides who follow best practices. Reservations online are recommended to secure preferred dates. Contact details are provided.
Location
Salem, Utah
Home of the American Fossil Quarry
Keep Finds
You keep fossils
Every discovery is retained by visitors
Dig Options
2 hr • 4 hr • Private
Multiple durations including private digs
Age Programs
8–11, 12–15, 16+
Hands‑on experiences for kids and adults
Book a Two Hour, Four Hour, Private Dig or a Paleontology Experience today to secure dates and guarantee hands-on instruction and takeaway specimens.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Ensure your footwear provides good support and protection as you'll be working on uneven terrain.
Bring a light backpack with necessities
Pack water, sunscreen, a hat, and a snack to stay comfortable during your excavation.
Protect fossils from damage
Handle all finds carefully and follow the guide’s instructions to preserve your discoveries.
Arrive early
Getting to the site a little before the scheduled start time ensures you're ready for a full experience.
Sturdy hiking boots
Provide support and protection while excavating and walking on rocky surfaces.
Sun protective clothing
Helps shield you from sunburn and heat during summer digs.
summer
Wide-brimmed hat
Offers shade and reduces sun exposure during outdoor activities.
Sunscreen SPF 30+
Protects your skin from harmful UV rays while working outdoors.