Utah’s diverse landscapes hold a rich record of ancient life. Its unique geological formations preserve countless fossilized remains, offering a glimpse into prehistoric ecosystems. These paleontological treasures provide opportunities for discovery, connecting enthusiasts with Earth’s deep past.
Prime Fossil Hunting Locations in Utah
Utah offers several accessible areas rich in fossils. The Green River Formation, spanning parts of Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming, is renowned for its exceptionally preserved Eocene-era fossils, particularly fish. Within Utah, this formation yields a variety of fish species, including the common Knightia and the predatory Diplomystus, along with abundant invertebrate fossils like snails and insects, and well-preserved plant fossils such as palm leaves, ferns, and sycamores. Collecting common invertebrate and plant fossils is generally permitted on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands within this region for personal use, provided disturbance is minimal.
Millard County in central Utah, particularly around the towns of Delta and Antelope Springs, is famous for Cambrian trilobites, which are ancient marine arthropods. While visitors cannot remove trilobites directly from quarry rock faces, they can often collect specimens from loose rock piles or search for surface finds in designated areas. The U-Dig Fossils Quarry, a private operation west of Delta, provides a guided experience where visitors can excavate and keep Cambrian trilobite fossils. Additionally, the sandstone hills surrounding Crystal Peak in Millard County contain ammonites and other fossils, while areas along Interstate 70, particularly between Fremont Junction and Green River, can yield brachiopods from eroding sandstone formations. Before visiting any location, it is important to confirm land ownership, as collecting on private property requires explicit permission.
Understanding Utah’s Fossil Laws
Understanding federal and state regulations is essential for fossil collection in Utah. The Paleontological Resources Protection Act (PRPA) governs the collection of fossils on federal lands managed by agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service. This federal law distinguishes between casual collecting for personal use and prohibited activities. Casual collectors may gather common invertebrate fossils, plant fossils, and petrified wood, up to 25 pounds per day, plus one piece, with an annual limit of 250 pounds. Such collection must be non-commercial, involve only hand tools, and result in negligible surface disturbance.
Collecting vertebrate fossils, such as dinosaur bones, fish, or reptiles, is strictly prohibited on federal and state lands without a research permit issued to accredited institutions. This prohibition extends to trace fossils like footprints and fossilized scat. Furthermore, all fossil collection is illegal within National Parks, National Monuments, State Parks, and American Indian lands. Significant paleontological discoveries on federal land should be left in place, photographed, geo-located, and reported to the local BLM office or the Utah Geological Survey.
Essential Tips for Responsible Fossil Hunting
Responsible fossil hunting involves careful preparation and adherence to ethical practices. Prioritizing safety is important when venturing into remote or rugged terrain. Always carry ample water, wear sun protection, and inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. A basic first-aid kit is also a practical item to have on hand.
Essential tools for fossil collecting include a small hammer, a chisel, a stiff brush for cleaning specimens, and sturdy bags or containers to protect your finds. A field guide specific to Utah’s fossils can aid in identification, and a map or GPS device helps in navigating public lands and confirming land ownership. Always respect private property boundaries and adhere to a “leave no trace” philosophy, packing out all trash and minimizing disturbance to the natural environment. Only collect what is permitted and intended for personal, non-commercial use, ensuring sites remain preserved for future generations.
Beyond the Field: Museums and Resources
For those seeking to further engage with Utah’s paleontological heritage, visiting museums and consulting official resources provides valuable opportunities. The Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City showcases extensive collections, including a large display of dinosaur fossils, such as the state fossil Allosaurus, and diverse invertebrate and plant fossils. Other notable institutions include the Utah State University Eastern Prehistoric Museum in Price, which houses a wide array of dinosaur species, and the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in Vernal, featuring dinosaur skeletons and a live fossil lab.
The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm offers a look at Jurassic-era dinosaur tracks, while Dinosaur National Monument, located in northeastern Utah, allows visitors to view dinosaur bones still embedded in rock walls. For up-to-date information on collecting regulations, land ownership maps, and specific collecting sites, the Utah Geological Survey (UGS) and local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) field offices are authoritative resources. These agencies can provide guidance and ensure that any fossil-related activities are conducted responsibly and legally.