John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - map and other informations

Description

Located in eastern Oregon, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a fascinating destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Established in 1975, this national monument spans over 14,000 acres and is divided into three units: the Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno units. Each unit offers unique geological formations, stunning landscapes, and a rich fossil record that dates back millions of years.

Sheep Rock Unit

The Sheep Rock Unit is the main visitor center of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Here, visitors can explore the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, which houses an impressive collection of fossils and exhibits that showcase the area's ancient history. The center also offers educational programs and guided tours led by knowledgeable park rangers.

One of the highlights of the Sheep Rock Unit is the Blue Basin Overlook Trail. This moderate hike takes you through colorful rock formations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to spot fossils embedded in the rocks, providing a glimpse into the area's prehistoric past.

Painted Hills Unit

The Painted Hills Unit is known for its vibrant and strikingly colored hills, which resemble an artist's palette. The hills get their hues from layers of volcanic ash and clay, creating a visually stunning landscape that changes with the light throughout the day. Visitors can explore several short trails that wind through the hills, allowing for up-close views of the unique geological formations.

For those interested in photography, the Painted Hills Unit offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking shots of the colorful hills against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. The changing colors throughout the day make it a photographer's paradise.

Clarno Unit

The Clarno Unit is home to towering rock formations that were once part of an ancient volcano. These towering cliffs, known as the Palisades, provide a dramatic backdrop for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The unit offers several hiking trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the Palisades, allowing visitors to marvel at the sheer size and beauty of these geological wonders.

In addition to its geological wonders, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is also home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Visitors may spot mule deer, coyotes, golden eagles, and a variety of wildflowers, especially during the spring and summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

What are the opening hours of the visitor center?

The visitor center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Are pets allowed in the national monument?

Pets are allowed in designated areas of the national monument but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Can I collect fossils in the park?

No, collecting fossils is strictly prohibited in the national monument. It is important to leave fossils undisturbed for future generations to enjoy and study.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	4 °C 39 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	36 mm 1.4 in	16 mm 0.6 in
Feb	6 °C 43 °F	-3 °C 27 °F	26 mm 1.0 in	20 mm 0.8 in
Mar	9 °C 48 °F	-1 °C 30 °F	49 mm 1.9 in	9 mm 0.4 in
Apr	13 °C 55 °F	2 °C 36 °F	48 mm 1.9 in	4 mm 0.2 in
May	18 °C 64 °F	7 °C 45 °F	43 mm 1.7 in	1 mm 0.0 in
Jun	23 °C 73 °F	11 °C 52 °F	35 mm 1.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	29 °C 84 °F	16 °C 61 °F	5 mm 0.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	29 °C 84 °F	15 °C 59 °F	8 mm 0.3 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	23 °C 73 °F	10 °C 50 °F	21 mm 0.8 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	16 °C 61 °F	4 °C 39 °F	41 mm 1.6 in	1 mm 0.0 in
Nov	8 °C 46 °F	-1 °C 30 °F	43 mm 1.7 in	9 mm 0.4 in
Dec	3 °C 37 °F	-5 °C 23 °F	37 mm 1.5 in	23 mm 0.9 in