Agate Fossil Beds National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Fossils and much, much more.

During the 1890s, scientists rediscovered what the Lakota Sioux already knew - bones preserved in one of the most complete Miocene mammal sites in the world.

Yet, this place called "Agate" is a landscape that reflects many players – from early animals roaming the valleys and hills, to tribal nations calling the High Plains home, to explorers passing through or settling in the American West.

Things To Do

Agate offers a wide variety of activities for its visitors. From the dramatic displays to the breath-taking trails - there's something for everyone.

Kids--ask about our Junior Ranger Program.

The fall weather in Western Nebraska can bring highs of 70 degrees or 4-5 inches of snow. The trails are always open although the snow is not cleared from them. This makes for an interesting walk as you can see animal tracks easily in the snow.
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The Fossil Freeway

Within a relatively short distance in Western Nebraska and South Dakota lie a large variety of different fossil discoveries preserved in several visitor centers. Here you will find preserved the story of ancient rhinos, mammoths, and other long extinct beasts spanning several million years, most of them after the dinosaurs. Come travel the "Fossil Freeway" and get acquainted with the deep history of North America's High Plains!

Website: www.fossilfreeway.net

Barn Swallows using the teepee poles as gathering places

What's going on?

The birds are gathering to fly to milder temperatures and these can be seen resting on the tops of the teepee poles.

Even though the blooms of the wildflowers are gone some of the seed pods and the plants themselves are interesting to look at. A "plant box" in the main room of the visitor center contains pressed plants, descriptions and blooming information about many of the plants seen in the park.
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Write to

301 River Road
Harrison, NE 69346

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Center and Museum
(308) 436-9760

Fax

(308) 668-2318

Climate

Agate is generally sunny and dry in the summer, with occasional afternoon thundershowers, and windy and cold in the winter. Wear comfortable clothing appropriate to the season. Hats are useful against exposure to the sun. Good walking shoes are recommended for use on the hiking trails.