Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument in Idaho offers visitors a glimpse into the prehistoric past with its unparalleled collection of fossils from the Pliocene epoch.
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is renowned for its rich fossil deposits that date back to the Pliocene epoch, approximately 3.5 million years ago. Located along the banks of the Snake River, the monument covers over 4,000 acres of sedimentary rock layers that preserve one of the most significant assemblages of fossil plants and animals in North America. The monument is especially famous for the Hagerman horse, one of the earliest known ancestors of the modern horse, Equus. Visitors to the monument can explore the vast terrain that features rolling hills, river views, and occasional sightings of diverse local wildlife. Although there are no formal trails due to the need to protect sensitive fossil beds, guided tours provide educational insights into paleontological discoveries, local geology, and the ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this invaluable record of Earth's history.
Hagerman Horse Quarry
Visitor Center Exhibits
Views of the Snake River
Research and Education Programs
The site where numerous specimens of the Hagerman horse were discovered, providing critical insights into equine evolution.
Offers educational exhibits on the paleontological history of the area and displays of fossil replicas and findings.
Provides scenic vistas of the Snake River and surrounding landscapes.