Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument - Hagerman, Idaho

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument - Hagerman, Idaho

Hagerman is home to over two hundred different species of fossil plants and animals. There are 30 complete horse fossils and portions of 200 individual horses.  It is the largest concentration of Hagerman Horse fossils in North America.

It is believed that the horse evolved in North America.  The Equus Simplicidens was the first true horse. It was about the size of a modern Arabian horse. However, its bones most closely resembled zebra bones, Grevy’s zebra to be exact.

The fossil beds is home to over 200 different species of fossil plants and animals.  The list includes Sabertooth Cat, a Hyena-like dog, Peccary, Mastodon, Otter, Bear, Shrew, Camel, and Ground Sloth, as well as many other species.  With over 3,000 new fossil fragments found each year, it is one of the most fossiliferous Pliocene-aged sites in the world.

The National Park Service Visitor Center is located on Route 30 in Hagerman,ID across from the high school.

Fossil exhibits, an informational DVD, a discovery corner, and programs are provided by park staff.  Regularly scheduled ranger-guided tours are available seasonally. Educational programs for groups are available throughout the school year.  Reservations are required.

There are many interesting experiences awaiting you at the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument.  Fossil Days, Flower Walks, Paleo Porch Programs are just some of them so be sure to visit often.

The catastrophic Bonneville Flood thundered through the Hagerman Valley 15,000 years ago leaving behind enormous fields of rounded lava boulders – some as big as cars. They are called ‘melon gravel’ and can still be seen throughout the valley today.

The weather in the area is generally sunny, dry and clear but in the summer it can get to above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the winters are mild with occasional winter storms.  Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for the season.

Directions: Hagerman Fossil Beds NM Visitor Center is located along Highway 30 in the town of Hagerman across from the High School.

From 1-84 East, take the first Bliss exit (#137) and travel approximately 2 miles to the turn off for Highway 30 on the right. Travel 8 miles on Highway 30 to the town of Hagerman. The Visitor Center is on your left.

From I- 84 West, take the second exit # 155, (Wendell/Hagerman). Travel @ 10 miles to the intersection of Highway 30. Make a right onto Highway 30 and travel approximately 2 miles. The Visitor Center is on your right. Parking is available in front of the Visitor Center, behind the Visitor Center, off Reed Street, or at the Town Park, one block north of the Visitor Center.

Hagerman is located approximately one and one half hours from Boise, Idaho and forty minutes from Twin Falls, Idaho.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Memorial Day to Labor Day:
Open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Winter Hours:

Open every day 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Beginning October 23rd the Visitor Center will be
closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays until Memorial Week.

Admission: There are no fees charged at the Monument, but donations are always welcomed.

Location: 221 N State Street
Hagerman, ID 83332

Phone:
208-837-4793
The Visitor Center is open all Federal holidays except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.