Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is located in Southern Idaho, approximately 20 miles southwest of the town of Hagerman. The monument covers an area of about 4,350 acres, and it was established in 1988 to protect and preserve one of the world's richest fossil beds.

The region's fascinating geological history spans over two million years, providing a unique opportunity to study the environment and ecosystems that existed during the late Pliocene epoch. The fossil beds of Hagerman are famous for their exceptionally well-preserved fossils, particularly those of the Hagerman Horse, a species of Equus extinct for over 3.5 million years.

Visitors to Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument can explore numerous exhibits and displays at the visitor center, which provide in-depth information about the fossils, geology, and the ancient environments of the area. There are also various interactive exhibits, including a replica of the Hagerman Horse skeleton, making it an educational experience for all ages.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and birdwatching in the monument. Several trails allow visitors to discover the stunning landscapes while spotting local wildlife and birds, including herons, ducks, and eagles. Additionally, the park offers ranger-led educational programs, including guided fossil walks and interpretive talks, shedding light on the area's prehistoric past.

Nearby attractions to Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument include the Thousand Springs State Park, which boasts multiple breathtaking waterfalls cascading into pristine blue pools. This park offers opportunities for fishing, camping, and picnicking amid spectacular natural surroundings. Bald Eagles and other migratory birds can often be observed in the area.

Another notable attraction close by is the Miracle Hot Springs, where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate in a series of natural hot spring pools. The site also offers various accommodations, including cabins and camping spots.

Visiting the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument in Idaho provides a unique opportunity to explore an ancient ecosystem, marvel at well-preserved fossils, and indulge in the beauty of the surrounding natural attractions.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is located within the state of Idaho, nestled in the beautiful Snake River Canyon. Situated in the western part of the state, approximately 100 miles southeast of the state capital Boise, this national monument showcases an incredible display of rich geology and paleontological treasures. Surrounded by picturesque mountains, the monument rests on the eastern side of Hagerman Valley, known for its fertile farmland and pristine river. The Snake River flows majestically just a stone's throw away, offering visitors breathtaking views and providing crucial water resources to the surrounding area. This idyllic location not only adds to the natural beauty of Hagerman Fossil Beds, but also contributes to the preservation of its valuable fossils and unique ecosystem.

Address & Contact

17970 U.S. Hwy 30
Hagerman, ID 83332
Driving Directions
Phone: 2089334105
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument would be during the months of May, June, July, and August. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 72°F to 93°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is relatively low, ranging from 0.1 in. to 0.9 in.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Gift Shop and Souvenirs Hiking Front-Country Hiking Auto and ATV Scenic Driving

Topics

Learn about these topics at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument: Geology Native American Heritage Westward Expansion Fossils and Paleontology Trails Climate Change Scenic Views

Visitor Centers

Thousand Springs Visitor Center

The new Thousand Springs Visitor Center, operated jointly with Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, is located about one mile north of Hagerman on Highway 30. Visitors will find maps and information for both Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument and the six units of Thousand Springs State Park. This is the only place at the monument to see Pliocene fossils on display. The visitor center also offers restrooms, drinking water, passport stamps, junior ranger programs, ranger talks, and a small giftshop.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Thousand Springs Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Red Lion Inn & Suites Jerome Twin Falls

Located in Jerome, Red Lion Inn & Suites Jerome Twin Falls is within a 10-minute drive of Snake River Canyon and Perrine Bridge. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and laundry facilities. Planning an event in Jerome? This hotel has facilities measuring 187 square feet (17 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1200 Centennial Spur, I-84 Exit 173 Hwy 93, Jerome, Idaho 83338
Web: Link

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls

Located in Twin Falls, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Twin Falls is in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Snake River Canyon Trail and Perrine Bridge. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Twin Falls? This hotel has facilities measuring 2,600 square feet (242 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 539 Pole Line Road, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Web: Link

Comfort Inn & Suites Jerome - Twin Falls

Located in Jerome, Comfort Inn & Suites Jerome - Twin Falls is in a national park, within a 10-minute drive of Snake River Canyon and Snake River Canyon Trail. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Jerome? This hotel has facilities measuring 600 square feet (56 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 379 Crossroads Point Blvd, Jerome, Idaho 83338
Web: Link

Hilton Garden Inn Twin Falls

A stay at Hilton Garden Inn Twin Falls places you in the heart of Twin Falls, within a 5-minute drive of Snake River Canyon Trail and Perrine Bridge. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Twin Falls? This hotel has facilities measuring 2700 square feet (251 square meters), including a meeting room.
Address: 1741 Harrison Street N, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Web: Link

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Twin Falls

Located in Twin Falls, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Twin Falls is within a 5-minute drive of Snake River Canyon Trail and Perrine Bridge. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Twin Falls? This hotel has facilities measuring 1000 square feet (90 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1788 Washington St N, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Web: Link

Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites

Located in Jerome, Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites is within a 10-minute drive of Snake River Canyon and Snake River Canyon Trail. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2653 S Lincoln Avenue, Jerome, Idaho 83338
Web: Link

Billingsley Creek

Located in Hagerman, Billingsley Creek is within a 5-minute drive of Hagerman City Park and Thousand Springs State Park. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 17940 US Highway 30, Hagerman, Idaho 83332
Web: Link

Holiday Motel

Located in Jerome, Holiday Motel is within a 15-minute drive of Snake River Canyon and Perrine Bridge. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 401 W Main Street, Jerome, Idaho 83338
Web: Link

My Place Hotel-Twin Falls ID

With a stay at My Place Hotel-Twin Falls ID in Twin Falls, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Snake River Canyon and Perrine Bridge. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 440 N Haven Drive, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Web: Link

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Twin Falls

With a stay at TownePlace Suites by Marriott Twin Falls in Twin Falls, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Snake River Canyon Trail and College of Southern Idaho. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 175 POLE LINE RD E, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
Web: Link