Oak Springs Trilobite Area

Oak Springs Summit Trilobite Area contains fossil remains of six types of trilobites in the shale deposits exposed at this gravel pit. They belong to the Olenellidae family having a shell like a horseshoe crab, jointed legs, compound eyes and the ability to curl into a ball like today’s sow bug. These fossils are the remains of animals that lived in a shallow sea 500 - 524 million years ago. Fossil collectors will find these fossils exposed in a trench at the south end of the gravel pit. There are no facilities available at the site. A BLM sign-in register is located at the parking area and pamphlets are available to learn more about the history of the area and these creatures. Trilobites may be collected in reasonable quantities for personal use. They may not be bartered or sold. Things to note: Trailhead with large parking area, trail register, interpretive sign and picnic table. Restrictions: Single track trails are closed to OHVs. How to get there: Located 12 miles west of Caliente on US highway 93 on the south side of Oak Springs Summit, a signed dirt road to the north will take you to a gravel pit. The fossils are located at the west end of the pit on the east slope of a knob.