Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Description

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument hold the secret to what animal life might have looked like 100,000 years ago. The Las Vegas Valley was once a thriving oasis with mega fauna and flora. Some of those animals are still around today such as the coyote, jackrabbit and aquatic snail. Due to changing climate, many of the animals went extinct such as the mammoth, ancient horse, giant ground sloth, and many more. Some fossils of these giant mammals have been found at Tule Springs leading it to be established as a national monument in 2014. Today, you can visit the 22,650 acre site and learn about our worlds past and potential future. 

There are two official, temporary trails at Tule Springs Fossil Beds. The first loop is a flat 1.7 mile loop around the first fossil bed. The second loop is 2.3 miles and loops around the entire fossil bed, making it more difficult.  

Learn more about this unique monument through National Park Services ranger led programs!

Other Information

There is no visitor center, restrooms or water at the trailhead. Visit the Lake Mead Visitors Center for more information. 

Do not remove any artifacts or fossils from the site if found. 

Wanting to take your kids to visit? Visit the National Park website for some fun activity books!

Learn more about the paleontology at Tule Springs here. 

Nearby services and lodging are located in Las Vegs. 

For equestrian specific information please visit Nevada Horse Trails!

Trail Manager

For more information on visitor information and recreation guidelines visit the National Park Service website or contact: 

For more information on local efforts to protect the area visit the Protectors of Tule Springs website or contact: 

National Park Service - Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
601 Nevada Way
Boulder City, Nevada 89005
Phone: 7022938853
View website