We started off in the welcome center where they have exhibits to look at explaining how the fossil beds came to be and what has been found there. The fossils are 10-12 million years old and are preserved very well in a layer of ash from a huge volcanic eruption in what is now Idaho. They have found many species including three-toed horses, camels, different variations of dogs, and rhinos! They have paleontologists there working and available to answer questions for you.
We next went to a current indoor dig site. They constructed a building around it to preserve the fossils once they are uncovered. We could watch scientists digging in the site, uncovering new discoveries. They also were available to ask questions to. The plan is to leave the remaining fossils where they are so you can see them in their natural state. The place is set up very well. You feel up close and personal.
We ended our journey at an activity center where the kids could "dig for fossils" and were able to work with replica skeletons to "complete the puzzle". It was an amazing day for everyone! I would recommend it to anyone who has an opportunity to visit.
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