Safety

A backpack, water bottle, hat, sunscreen and bug spray on a wall with Fossil Butte behind.
Pack safety essentials for your hike including water, a hat, sunscreen, and bugspray.

NPS Photo

Visitor safety is our priority at Fossil Butte National Monument. Report safety hazards to an employee or volunteer.

Hiking

  • Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear.
  • Carry plenty of water. Drink more than you normally would.
  • Protect yourself from the sun and insects.
  • Be aware of elevation gains and steep downhill sections.
  • Don't hike during thunderstorms. Lightning can be dangerous as far as 10 miles away.
  • Trails, boardwalks, and bridges are slippery when wet or frosty. Use caution.
  • Keep dogs on a leash.

Driving

  • Use caution on gravel roads; they may be impassible when wet; loose gravel can cause rollovers.
  • Some gravel roads are narrow with steep grades (17%).
  • We do not recommend going on the gravel portion of the scenic drive if you are in an RV or towing.
  • Drive cautiously and courteously.
  • Watch for animals on the road, especially at night.
  • Drive defensively and wear seat belts.
  • Obey posted speed limits.

Wildlife

  • Do not approach or feed wildlife.
  • Mountain lion, black bear, and moose habitat exists in the park. Be observant during your visit and report any sightings or encounters.
  • If camping on nearby public lands, keep a clean camp, and store food and garbage out of the reach of bears.
  • No venomous snakes live here.

Insects

  • Mosquitoes, deer flies, horse flies, and wood ticks are bothersome in the spring and summer months.
  • Use insect repellent for protection.

Pets

  • Leaving your pet in a closed vehicle during the warm summer days is dangerous. Open windows more than a crack and check on them often.
  • Please keep pets under physical restraint at all times and clean up after them.
  • Do not allow your pet to harass wildlife.

Weather

  • Check the forecast before your hike.
  • The weather can change rapidly. It can be 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) one day and 30 degrees F (-1 degrees C) and snowing the next, even in July.
  • Strong winds are common.
  • Thunderstorms move in rapidly. Seek shelter immediately. Avoid ridgelines and isolated tall trees.

Elevation

  • Monument elevations range between 6,600 ft (2012 m) and 8,000 ft (2438 m) in a desert. You will get sunburned and dehydrated more easily than at lower elevations. The air is also much thinner than at lower elevations and can put more strain on you.
  • Be aware of your physical limitations and drink water than you normally would to avoid the dehydrating effects of our dry desert climate.
  • Stop and rest frequently.

Emergency

  • Call 911
  • Sheriff 307-877-3971
  • Cell phone coverage is spotty
 
  • Sign that says Fossil Butte National Monument with fossil fish and arrowhead. Sun rising over butte.
    Plan Your Visit

    Summer is a good time to visit. Days are sunny and not too hot, nights are cool. Lodging, camping and restaurants are available nearby.

  • Sagebrush sloping up to a ridge overlooking a valley covered with snow and blue sky and clouds above
    Current Conditions at Fossil Butte

    As you plan your visit, be sure to check out the current conditions at Fossil Butte National Monument.

  • Fossil Butte with blue sky and rain clouds above and sagebrush in the foreground.
    Frequently Asked Questions

    Learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Fossil Butte NM.

Last updated: June 25, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 592
Kemmerer, WY 83101

Phone:

307 877-4455

Contact Us