Adventure Brief
Kids ages 8-11 can uncover real fossils and learn fossil restoration in Salem, Utah! Hands-on activities and expert tours make this a must-do outdoor experience.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Kids ages 8-11 can uncover real fossils and learn fossil restoration in Salem, Utah! Hands-on activities and expert tours make this a must-do outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for children in good general health with basic mobility; no strenuous activity required.
Wildlife
History
Salem and the surrounding area have a rich paleontological history with numerous fossil discoveries dating back to the Mesozoic era.
Conservation
American Fossil prioritizes responsible excavation and educational outreach to promote fossil preservation and sustainable tourism.
American Fossil
Kids ages 8-11 can uncover real fossils and learn fossil restoration in Salem, Utah! Hands-on activities and expert tours make this a must-do outdoor experience.
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 Comfortable Clothes Suitable for Mess
Fossil excavation can be dusty and dirty; wear clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting stained.
Bring a Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during outdoor excavation in Utah’s dry climate.
Sun Protection is a Must
Apply sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from Utah’s strong sun rays during outdoor activities.
Listen Closely to Expert Instructions
Fossil handling requires care; following guides’ directions ensures safety and respect for precious finds.
Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
Protects feet from rough terrain and fossil debris during excavation.
Lightweight Sun Hat
Provides shade and reduces sun exposure during outdoor digs.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps kids hydrated during physical activity in dry Utah climate.
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Useful for cool mornings and evenings, especially during spring or fall visits.
spring