Things To Do Near Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a quick stop for RVers driving in between campgrounds. This national monument is an excellent attraction for the inquisitive and children alike. When you arrive, you should make it a point to stop at the visitor center to watch a 20-minute orientation video, participate in a fossil lab, and talk to rangers. You will get to see petrified tree stumps, indigenous plants and animals, and the Hornbek Homestead on the trails. It only takes a half day's visit to complete these activities.
Hiking Trails
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Petrified Forest Loop
Petrified Forest Loop is an easy 1.1-mile loop hike from behind the outdoor exhibit area that leads to the ancient Lake Florissant. It is an area rich in silica, which has settled in layers to fossilize insects and plants. This scenic trail takes you past what is known as the lively Big Stump over rolling mountain meadows with views of snowcapped peaks and fossilized stumps of sequoia trees.
Location
Teller County Road 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Length
1.1 miles
Intensity
Easy
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The Ponderosa Loop
If you want to get out of the heat, then head to the shade of The Ponderosa Loop. This 0.4-mile trail takes you through a modern forest of spruce, pines, Douglas fir, and aspen trees. It is made of packed gravel, is wheelchair accessible, and you can expect to see a few Abert's squirrels.
Location
Teller County Road 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Length
0.4 miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Mueller State Park
If you want to avoid crowds, then you should visit Mueller State Park. This state park consists of 5,112 acres and 55 miles of trails. It is also home to the Dome Rock attractions and various wildlife, such as the bighorn sheep, hawks, eagles, black bears, and elk.
Location
21045 Highway 67 South, Divide, CO, 80814
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Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is a sanctuary in a scenic mountain setting for wolves, foxes, and coyotes. This facility offers one-hour tours that allow guests to meet the animals, learn about their history, and learn how the animals' habitats are being threatened. The tours conclude with a serene experience of a wolf howling.
Location
4729 Twin Rocks Rd, Divide, CO 80814
Museums
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The Historic Hornbek Homestead
The Hornbek House was built in 1878 for Adaline Hornbek and became a part of the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in 1973. It is an example of early homesteads and showcases outstanding domestic log architecture in the Rocky Mountain region. You can walk around the property at the Homestead, tour the buildings, and enjoy the surrounding beautiful scenery.
Location
Teller County Road 1, Florissant, CO 80816
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The Pikes Peak Historical Society Museum
The Pikes Peak Historical Society Museum is comprised of 2,600 square feet of exhibits that offer visitors an educational and entertaining tour of the Pikes Peak Region. These exhibits include a focus on the transition from mountain men to the early pioneers, a highlight of the Ute Indians, the gold rush, and railroads. The museum also features 345- and 439-pound smoky quartz crystals, fossils, minerals, and unique rocks from the Florissant Lineament.
Location
18033 Teller County Road #1, Florissant, CO 80816
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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The Ponderosa Country Store
This is a local gas station where you will find affordable staples for your trip. The store also serves Hunt Brothers Pizza and offers grocery selections.
Location
Convenience Store
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Cripple Creek Candy & Variety
Cripple Creek Candy & Variety serves vintage candy and makes handmade chocolates and fudge. This store specializes in jalapeño peanut brittle, regular peanut brittle, truffles, and toffee peanut butter cups.
Location
Candy Shop
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Iron Tree Restaurant & Brewery
If you are looking for homemade food and cold craft beer, then you should stop at Iron Tree Restaurant & Brewery. Their hamburgers, craft beer, and cheesecake are among the best in the area.
Location
37 Costello Ave, Florissant, CO 80816
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Costello Coffee House
Costello Coffee House is a Victorian-style coffee shop that was built in 1885. You will find various breakfast favorites, such as turtle lattes, hot chocolate with homemade whip cream, croissants, coffee, quiche, eggs, and bacon.
Location
2679 US Highway 24, Florissant, CO 80816