FossilsForever

01/16/2026

For the first time in over 100 years, fossils have been excavated from what is now the parking lot of the Quarry Exhibit Hall at Dinosaur National Monument.

Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/5n7yv2b3

01/16/2026

Have you ever wondered how we know which fossil fish is what species? Well, there are character traits that we look at to help determine what species of fish we find in the rock layers. For example, Mioplosus labracoides has a distinct two dorsal fin set along its back that no other Green River Formation fish fossil has. The first set of fins are just behind the head, usually lying flat along the back. There is a small space between the front fin and back fin, that is usually more upright and pointing towards the back. If that isn't enough, then look at the mouth for some small, pointy teeth. Image of BYU specimen

12/12/2025

11/27/2025

“Hello. My name is Inigo Monturkey. You defrosted my father. Prepare to dine.”

One of our most iconic birds is hard to miss, unless it’s coming in hot at 50 mph (yes, they can fly for short distances) or sprinting 18 mph straight at your kneecaps. Inconceivable? Exactly. Lost track of one? Don’t worry, they leave receipts. Male droppings are j-shaped; female droppings are spiral-shaped. The larger the diameter, the older the bird. Congrats, you’re now the weird relative who measures turkey p**p at Thanksgiving. The kids’ table is calling.

Pro tip: Shiny objects, windows, and bald heads have been known to trigger vengeance mode. Be safe out there. In conclusion, Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the National Park Service. 🦃

Image: A very serious turkey staring outside doors at Jewel Cave National Monument visitor center, because apparently closing time is personal.

11/21/2025

To welcome everyone back to our visitor centers, we are having a Black Friday sale from November 24th through December 1st. All items are 25% OFF! (except park passes and postage stamps).

Come see us! If you are just coming to shop the sale at Dinosaur, the entrance fee will be waived!

11/19/2025

The unpaved portion of the Scenic Drive from the end of the pavement to the back gate is closed for the winter because of accumulating snow. NPS photo (J.Collins 11/19/2025).

11/19/2025

UPDATE: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 – Fire crews will be burning additional slash piles today along Argyle Canyon Road east of Hwy 191 on the Duchesne Ranger District.

November 18, 2025 - The Vernal Ranger District will be conducting pile burns on Wednesday, November 19. Pile burning is a type of prescribed fire where firefighters pile and burn forest debris to reduce an area’s wildfire risk. These burns will occur off Forest Service Road (FSR) 468 near the Deer Lodge summer home area west of Highway 191.

No associated road closures are in effect. However, smoke may be visible from Highway 191. Slow down and turn on your headlights if you encounter smoke on the road.