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Unearth ancient fish fossils beneath the stars with expert guides in this hands-on paleontology adventure at the Green River Formation. Discover history and keep your findings!
Unearth ancient fish fossils beneath the stars with expert guides in this hands-on paleontology adventure at the Green River Formation. Discover history and keep your findings!
Book with In Stone Fossils LLC
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by In Stone Fossils LLC · Kemmerer, Wyoming
Situated in the heart of the Green River Formation, the Baseline Nighttime Paleontology Experience by In Stone Fossils LLC offers a rare chance to unearth prehistoric treasures under the stars. Located in western Colorado, this area is renowned for its exceptional fossil deposits dating back millions of years. During this 6-hour adventure, participants don field gear and join expert paleontologists in a hands-on excavation of fossil-rich sediment layers. The activity focuses on uncovering ancient fish fossils, with guides sharing insights into the geological history of the formation. What sets this experience apart is both its nighttime setting—adding a layer of mystique—and the fact that each participant gets to keep their finds, making it a truly memorable gem for fossil enthusiasts. Visitors are introduced to the careful techniques used to unearth fossils and learn about the formation’s significance as a window into prehistoric aquatic life. The Green River Formation is not just a fossil hotspot, but also a site of scientific importance, designated as a National Natural Landmark. This experience is perfect for curious minds eager to connect with Earth's ancient past. The surrounding area offers stunning vistas of semi-arid plains, with the landscape dotted with other geological formations that hint at millions of years of natural history. For families, educators, or serious fossil hunters, this adventure delivers an engaging mix of education and excitement. Its limited availability makes it a rare opportunity to participate directly in paleontological research. If you're visiting western Colorado and want to turn fossil hunting into a night under the stars, this is the trip to add to your bucket list.
moderate.
6 hours.
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, able to stand and dig for extended periods.
Yes, children can participate with proper supervision, and it offers a fantastic educational opportunity for young paleontology enthusiasts.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, warm layered clothing, and bring a headlamp for nighttime activities.
Absolutely, all fossils uncovered during the dig are yours to keep.
Yes, all necessary excavation tools are supplied by In Stone Fossils LLC.
The activity involves standing and digging but is manageable for most in moderate physical condition.
Guides are happy to share additional insights and resources to deepen your understanding.
The Green River Formation has been a key fossil site since the early 20th century, revealing well-preserved aquatic life from the Eocene epoch.
The site is managed with sustainability in mind, emphasizing minimal impact and preservation of its scientific importance.
In Stone Fossils LLC is a paleontology tour operator based in Kemmerer, Wyoming that runs guided fossil-dig experiences at the Green River Formation. The company offers four primary experiences: the Daytime Paleontology Experience with personalized one-on-one guidance; the Luxury Nighttime Paleontology Experience focused on upscale nighttime digs in productive beds such as the 18-inch Layer and sandwich beds; The Ultimate Fossil Dig Adventure, which combines guided excavations, exclusive access to specific fossil layers, hands-on preparation workshops, and luxury accommodations with curated dining; and the Baseline Nighttime Paleontology Experience, a six-hour dig where participants uncover ancient fish fossils and can keep their finds, with limited availability noted for the 2025 season. In Stone Fossils emphasizes hands-on excavation, trained guides, and educational value. Guides demonstrate safe excavation techniques and fossil preparation methods during fieldwork and workshop sessions. Trips are suitable for families, collectors, and individual enthusiasts seeking immersive paleontology activities. Fieldwork takes place on-site at the Green River Formation, a recognized Eocene fossil locality, and reservations are recommended when booking limited nighttime or season-specific experiences. By combining field excavation, guided instruction, and practical preparation workshops, In Stone Fossils provides authentic access to productive fossil layers while prioritizing safety, education, and responsible collecting practices.
Book with In Stone Fossils LLC