Experience the thrill of digging for dinosaur fossils with the Triceratops Gulch Project. Join a hands-on paleontology expedition near Morrison, Colorado, and contribute to real scientific discoveries!
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape to handle extended periods of digging, hiking over uneven terrain, and working outdoors in varying weather.
Wildlife
History
Morrison is renowned for its rich dinosaur fossil discoveries, lending its name to the 'Morrison Formation'—a significant Late Jurassic sedimentary rock layer.
Conservation
The project emphasizes minimizing disturbance to excavation sites and promoting sustainable paleontological practices to preserve fossil resources for future generations.
Morrison Natural History Museum
Experience the thrill of digging for dinosaur fossils with the Triceratops Gulch Project. Join a hands-on paleontology expedition near Morrison, Colorado, and contribute to real scientific discoveries!
Morrison Natural History Museum, located in Morrison, Colorado, preserves and interprets local and regional paleontology through exhibits, public programs, and field research. The museum offers general admission access to fossil exhibits and ongoing research displays, with expert guides leading visitors through curated specimens and explaining the scientific context.
General admission includes a complimentary audio tour that guides guests through highlights and research stories, and the museum is approximately 25 minutes from downtown Denver, making it accessible for day visitors. Beyond the museum floor, the institution supports hands‑on fieldwork opportunities. One notable program is the Triceratops Gulch Project, a three‑day fossil expedition based in Wyoming that invites participants to engage in active excavation, learn field techniques, and contribute to real paleontological research under professional supervision.
The project emphasizes safety, practical skills, and scientific methods used in digging and documenting fossil finds. The museum collaborates with trained staff and volunteers to maintain exhibits and to run educational programs aimed at a wide audience, from casual visitors to aspiring paleontologists. Programming focuses on clear, evidence-based interpretation of fossils and the processes that preserve them, ensuring visitors encounter accurate scientific information. Accessibility from Denver and the combination of museum exhibits with active field projects make the Morrison Natural History Museum a practical option for visitors seeking both educational exhibits and immersive fossil dig experiences. Educational resources include interpretive signage, specimen labels, and rotating displays that reflect ongoing discoveries and research collaborations. Programs welcome families, students, and adult learners of all experience levels regularly.
Location
Morrison, CO
About 25 minutes from Denver
Triceratops Project
3 days
Hands-on fossil expedition in Wyoming
Guided Tours
Expert Guides
Leads through exhibits and research
Audio Tour
Complimentary
Included with general admission
Reserve general admission for museum exhibits and the complimentary audio tour, or apply for the Triceratops Gulch Project three-day fossil expedition in Wyoming—details and tickets available online.
Prepare for Rocky Terrain
Wear sturdy hiking boots as the excavation sites include uneven and rocky ground.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water and drink regularly to stay energized during physically demanding digs.
Dress in Layers
Weather can shift quickly; layering clothing ensures comfort from chilly mornings to midday warmth.
Use Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from strong sun exposure at higher elevations.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Provides support and protection on rocky, uneven fossil sites.
All-Weather Layered Clothing
Helps adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
Protective Gloves
Protects hands during digging and handling fossil materials.
Sun Protection Kit (Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasses)
Essential for shielding from strong sun exposure at high elevation dig sites.
summer