Paleontologists study fossils and the rocks they are found in to understand ancient life on earth and how it has changed through time. Every new specimen collected fills a small piece of the ancient puzzle of prehistoric life in Red Rock Canyon.

Trip participants in the past have made invaluable contributions to the science of paleontology, including rare specimens never recorded before. You don’t have to be a trained paleontologist to be able to contribute. With a bit of persistence and a dash of luck, anyone can make the next big discovery. It’s a matter of being at the right place at the right time. You learn the entire process of searching for fossils, plaster jacketing, and field recording. The educational programs for children include fossil casting, field identification, and nature hikes.