Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Florissant

Fantastic experience, learn about 34 million years of history right here in Colorado. See petrified stumps (sounds strange, but knowing the history makes it so interesting!) Don’t miss the visitor center. Watch a 15 minute informational video and view many plant and insect fossils from millions of years. The paths are well maintained, but wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen/hat, or an umbrella for rain. Plan to spend a few hours here. Bring your National parks pass and get the stamp in your national parks passport.

Fun place with lots to learn and well maintained trails. It was a slow day so I only spotted one other group on the trails the whole day. Very peaceful walks with a great view of pikes peak over the forest. Lots of information boards are posted around so you can learn as you walk. Paths are well marked and a few benches around if you need a quick rest. It's a great place to visit if you like the outdoors and history lessons. I enjoyed it but don't see myself coming back any time soon since it was a smaller park. Feels very one-and-done for the average tourist.