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John Day Fossil Beds
INTRO:
Made up of three 'units,' the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Eastern Oregon offers a captivating fossil record of plants and animals that stretches remarkably for almost 50 million years of the Cenozoic Era. Covering the fantastic changes that occurred between 54 and 6 millions years ago, the 14,000-acre park is split into distant parts - the Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit, and Clarno Unit - with each part offering disparate but fascinating elements.
FOSSILS:
Scientists have been enthralled with the John Day Fossil Beds since the 1870s and they continue to do extensive work there till this day. Over 2100 species of fossilized plants and animals have been recovered - including many excellent examples from the 'Age of Mammals.' In general, fossil collecting is not allowed in the Monument by non-researchers, though there are limited opportunities to apply for a permit and perhaps gather pieces for private, non-commercial use. Of the many trails available, three offer the best bet for amateur paleontologists. The 'Trail of the Fossils' in the Clarno Unit demonstrates clear evidence of mudflows that overran a forest and caught plants and animals when it turned to rock. The 'Story in Stone' at the Foree Picnic Area and 'Island in Time' at the Blue Basin, both in the Sheep Rock Unit, feature many vertebrate fossils and helpful educational displays.
ACTIVITIES:
The main gathering point of the three units is the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center in the Sheep Rock Unit, and they have many fine fossils exhibited there along with various geological exhibits, a bookstore and a small theater. The many well-maintained trails are the true gem of this park, with 10 hikes to choose from. The walks around the Painted Hills Unit are aesthetically beautiful, as is the 3-mile Blue Basin Overlook in the Sheep Rock Unit, while in the Clarno Unit, the 'Clarno Arch' showcases some petrified wood. The James Cant Ranch Historical Museum is across the road from the Condon Center and it focuses on the human settlements in the area, particularly the early sheep and wool industries in the area. There are also many educational programs, drives and talks to attend depending on the season. Also, the eight-hour John Day Fossil Loop is one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest, and there is much to do and see along the way.
LODGING AND RESTAURANTS:
Because the Monument is spread out, there are plenty of hotel options in the area. On the east side, the town of John Day has a number of accommodations, including the John Day Sunset Inn and a Best Western. The Executive Inn and the Ochoco Inn are in Prineville if you are looking to be based towards the western part of the park. The Wilson Ranches Retreat Bed and Breakfast in Fossil, OR is a handsome rural option. There are also a wide range of public and private camping sites for all needs. Likewise, many dining establishments dot the region.
PLAN YOUR VISIT:
The Thomas Condon Paleontology Center and the James Cant Ranch House, both located at the Sheep Rock Unit, are open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm and extra half-hour in the summer. They are closed on all government holidays between Thanksgiving and Presidents Day. There are no entrance fees for the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and they are allowed only in developed areas and on designated trails.
WHEN TO VISIT:
A well-run but very popular park, the John Day Fossil Beds can be quite busy with tourists, particularly from May to October when the weather is at its best. Even then, the nights can be cold, and being in the Pacific Northwest, there is often precipitation. The winter is relatively temperate though generally uncomfortable.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Where can I get more information and facts about John Day Fossil Beds National Monument? To find out about the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, visit the National Park Service site (http://www.nps.gov/joda/).
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