Photo credit: NPS Photo / Orange Frame

Step back in time to discover the Pliocene era of fossils at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. 

In Idaho is an opportunity to step back in time four to three million years ago at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument was created to preserve one of the world’s richest sites for Pliocene-aged fossils. These fossils are around 4 to 3 million years old and include animals such as the Hagerman Horse. Fossils found from this area can be seen in the Thousand Springs Visitor Center. During the Pliocene era there was on average over 20 inches of precipitation a year allowing for a lush environment for a wide variety of plants and animals. Today there is less than 10 inches of precipitation, but due to the Snake River, natural springs, and other water sources this area is still able to support an incredibly diverse community. The Snake River which is home to many species including the federally listed endangered species Snake River sockeye salmon

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