17 – Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, located in south-central Idaho along the Snake River, is renowned for its extensive collection of fossils from the Pliocene Epoch, dating back approximately 3 to 4 million years. The site is most famous for the Hagerman horse (Equus simplicidens), Idaho’s state fossil, with over 200 individual fossils of this early horse species discovered here. Beyond the Hagerman horse, the monument has yielded fossils of more than 140 species, including saber-toothed cats, mastodons, ground sloths, beavers, and various birds, offering a comprehensive glimpse into ancient ecosystems.

Visitors to the monument can explore the Thousand Springs Visitor Center, which features fossil exhibits and information about the area’s paleontological significance. The monument also offers scenic overlooks and trails, including views of the Snake River and remnants of the historic Oregon Trail. While fossil collecting is prohibited to preserve the site’s integrity, the park provides educational opportunities to learn about prehistoric life and the processes of fossilization.

More Information

https://www.nps.gov/hafo/index.htm

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