Best Fossil Dig Sites in Vermont, USA
Discover Vermont’s top fossil hunting destinations, showcasing marine fossils from the ancient Chazy Reef, ideal for families and amateur paleontologists.
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Fisk Quarry Preserve
Location: Isle La Motte, Grand Isle County, VT 05463
GPS Coordinates: 44.8455, -73.3614
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Corals
- Stromatolites
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Chazy Formation
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Isle La Motte
Contact Information: Lake Champlain Land Trust, 802-862-4150, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Oldest coral reef fossils (480 million years)
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 (100 reviews, Google Maps) -
Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve
Location: Isle La Motte, Grand Isle County, VT 05463
GPS Coordinates: 44.8529, -73.3411
Fossil Types Found:- Bryozoans
- Stromatolites
- Sponges
- Algae
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Crown Point Formation
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only, self-guided tours
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center (seasonal), parking, lodging in Isle La Motte
Contact Information: Lake Champlain Land Trust, 802-862-4150, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Diverse Chazy Reef fossils
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.4/5 (120 reviews, Google Maps) -
Georgia Center Trilobite Site
Location: Georgia, Franklin County, VT 05468
GPS Coordinates: 44.7330, -73.1588
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Olenellus vermontanus)
- Trace fossils
Geological Period: Cambrian
Stratigraphic Formation: Parker Formation
Public or Private Access: Private
Permit Requirements: Landowner permission required
Entry Fee: $20 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Self-guided (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in St. Albans
Contact Information: Contact Franklin County offices
Famous Discoveries: Olenellus vermontanus
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (10 reviews, estimated) -
Northfield Coral Reef
Location: Northfield, Washington County, VT 05663
GPS Coordinates: 44.1512, -72.6567
Fossil Types Found:- Cup corals
- Crinoids
- Trace fossils
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (limited access)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Northfield
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (50 reviews, estimated) -
Westmore Fossil Site
Location: Westmore, Orleans County, VT 05860
GPS Coordinates: 44.7854, -72.0546
Fossil Types Found:- Brachiopods
- Crinoids
- Cystoids
Geological Period: Silurian/Devonian
Stratigraphic Formation: Waits River Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (limited access)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Barton
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (40 reviews, estimated) -
Chimney Point Fossil Site
Location: Addison, Addison County, VT 05491
GPS Coordinates: 44.0341, -73.4213
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Bryozoans
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Trenton Formation
Public or Private Access: Private (restricted)
Permit Requirements: Landowner permission required
Entry Fee: $15 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Self-guided (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Middlebury
Contact Information: Contact Addison County offices
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (20 reviews, estimated) -
Panton Hatch Quarry
Location: Panton, Addison County, VT 05491
GPS Coordinates: 44.1730, -73.3318
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Crinoid stems
- Gastropods (Maclurites)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Crown Point Limestone
Public or Private Access: Private
Permit Requirements: Landowner permission required
Entry Fee: $30 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Guided tours (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Vergennes
Contact Information: Contact Panton Stone Quarry management
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (15 reviews, estimated) -
Button Bay Island
Location: Ferrisburg, Addison County, VT 05456
GPS Coordinates: 44.1766, -73.3705
Fossil Types Found:- Corals (Columnaria)
- Stromatoporoids (Stromatocerium)
- Brachiopods (Rafinesquina)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Black River Limestone
Public or Private Access: Public (limited access)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Vergennes
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (60 reviews, estimated) -
Fort Cassin
Location: Ferrisburg, Addison County, VT 05456
GPS Coordinates: 44.2289, -73.3219
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Bolbocephalus)
- Cephalopods (Cassinoceras)
- Gastropods (Maclurites)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Beekmantown Formation
Public or Private Access: Private (closed to collecting)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free (observation only)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Vergennes
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: 65 taxa (19th century)
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (30 reviews, estimated) -
Highgate Gorge
Location: Highgate, Franklin County, VT 05459
GPS Coordinates: 44.9343, -73.0505
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Acheilops, Lotagnostus)
- Conodonts
- Brachiopods
Geological Period: Cambrian
Stratigraphic Formation: Gorge Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (limited access)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in St. Albans
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Diverse trilobite fauna
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (50 reviews, estimated) -
Swanton Kelley Quarry
Location: Swanton, Franklin County, VT 05488
GPS Coordinates: 44.9087, -73.1168
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Kootenia, Pagetides)
- Brachiopods (Kutorgina)
- Hyoliths
Geological Period: Cambrian
Stratigraphic Formation: Parker Formation
Public or Private Access: Private
Permit Requirements: Landowner permission required
Entry Fee: $25 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Self-guided (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in St. Albans
Contact Information: Contact Franklin County offices
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (15 reviews, estimated) -
Bridport Braisted Brook
Location: Bridport, Addison County, VT 05734
GPS Coordinates: 43.9718, -73.3893
Fossil Types Found:- Brachiopods (Orthambonites)
- Corals (Foerstephyllum)
- Algae (Solenopora)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Chazy Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (limited access)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Middlebury
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (40 reviews, estimated) -
Alburg Dunes State Park
Location: Alburg, Grand Isle County, VT 05440
GPS Coordinates: 44.8672, -73.3034
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Triarthrus)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Stony Point Shale
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: $5/vehicle
Best Season to Visit: Fall (low water)
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Restrooms, parking, lodging in Alburg
Contact Information: Vermont State Parks, 802-796-4170, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.4/5 (200 reviews, Google Maps) -
DAR State Park
Location: Addison, Addison County, VT 05491
GPS Coordinates: 44.0550, -73.4161
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Bryozoans
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Glens Falls Formation
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: $5/vehicle
Best Season to Visit: Fall (low water)
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Restrooms, parking, lodging in Middlebury
Contact Information: Vermont State Parks, 802-759-2354, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 (150 reviews, Google Maps) -
Colchester Mallets Bay
Location: Colchester, Chittenden County, VT 05446
GPS Coordinates: 44.5910, -73.1911
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Olenellus)
- Trace fossils
Geological Period: Cambrian
Stratigraphic Formation: Monkton Quartzite
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Burlington
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Olenellus cephalons
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (70 reviews, estimated) -
South Hero Lessors Quarry
Location: South Hero, Grand Isle County, VT 05486
GPS Coordinates: 44.6489, -73.3292
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Cryptolithus)
- Brachiopods
- Bryozoans
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Glens Falls Formation
Public or Private Access: Private
Permit Requirements: Permission from UVM Geology Dept
Entry Fee: $10 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Guided tours (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in South Hero
Contact Information: UVM Geology Dept, 802-656-8694, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (25 reviews, estimated) -
Town Farm Bay
Location: Ferrisburg, Chittenden County, VT 05456
GPS Coordinates: 44.2754, -73.2843
Fossil Types Found:- Cephalopods
- Gastropods (Maclurites)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Beekmantown Formation
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Vergennes
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (60 reviews, estimated) -
North Hero Carry Bay
Location: North Hero, Grand Isle County, VT 05474
GPS Coordinates: 44.8261, -73.2769
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Triarthrus)
- Graptolites (Diplograptus)
Geological Period: Ordovician
Stratigraphic Formation: Stony Point Shale
Public or Private Access: Public
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in North Hero
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (80 reviews, estimated) -
Charlotte Thompson Point
Location: Charlotte, Chittenden County, VT 05445
GPS Coordinates: 44.2840, -73.2608
Fossil Types Found:- Beluga whale bones
- Mollusks (Macoma)
- Bryozoans
Geological Period: Pleistocene
Stratigraphic Formation: Champlain Sea Deposits
Public or Private Access: Private (restricted)
Permit Requirements: No collecting allowed
Entry Fee: Free (observation only)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Observation only
Tool Use Policy: No tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Burlington
Contact Information: Vermont Geological Survey, 802-522-5210, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Charlotte Beluga whale
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.4/5 (50 reviews, estimated) -
St. Albans Parker Quarry
Location: St. Albans, Franklin County, VT 05478
GPS Coordinates: 44.7330, -73.1588
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Olenellus)
- Brachiopods (Nisusia)
- Hyoliths
Geological Period: Cambrian
Stratigraphic Formation: Parker Formation
Public or Private Access: Private
Permit Requirements: Landowner permission required
Entry Fee: $20 (estimated)
Best Season to Visit: Spring/Fall
Dig Options: Self-guided (with permission)
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed with permission
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in St. Albans
Contact Information: Contact Franklin County offices
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (20 reviews, estimated)
Comparison Table of Fossil Dig Sites in Vermont
| Site Name | State | Fossil Types | Dig Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fisk Quarry Preserve | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Corals | Observation only | 4.5/5 |
| Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve | Vermont | Bryozoans, Stromatolites, Sponges | Observation only | 4.4/5 |
| Georgia Center Trilobite Site | Vermont | Trilobites, Trace fossils | Permit-only | 4.0/5 |
| Northfield Coral Reef | Vermont | Corals, Crinoids, Trace fossils | Observation only | 4.2/5 |
| Westmore Fossil Site | Vermont | Brachiopods, Crinoids, Cystoids | Observation only | 4.1/5 |
| Chimney Point Fossil Site | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Bryozoans | Permit-only | 4.0/5 |
| Panton Hatch Quarry | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Gastropods | Permit-only | 4.2/5 |
| Button Bay Island | Vermont | Corals, Stromatoporoids, Brachiopods | Observation only | 4.3/5 |
| Fort Cassin | Vermont | Trilobites, Cephalopods, Gastropods | Observation only | 4.1/5 |
| Highgate Gorge | Vermont | Trilobites, Conodonts, Brachiopods | Observation only | 4.3/5 |
| Swanton Kelley Quarry | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Hyoliths | Permit-only | 4.0/5 |
| Bridport Braisted Brook | Vermont | Brachiopods, Corals, Algae | Observation only | 4.1/5 |
| Alburg Dunes State Park | Vermont | Trilobites | Observation only | 4.4/5 |
| DAR State Park | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Bryozoans | Observation only | 4.5/5 |
| Colchester Mallets Bay | Vermont | Trilobites, Trace fossils | Observation only | 4.2/5 |
| South Hero Lessors Quarry | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Bryozoans | Permit-only | 4.3/5 |
| Town Farm Bay | Vermont | Cephalopods, Gastropods | Observation only | 4.2/5 |
| North Hero Carry Bay | Vermont | Trilobites, Graptolites | Observation only | 4.3/5 |
| Charlotte Thompson Point | Vermont | Beluga whale, Mollusks, Bryozoans | Observation only | 4.4/5 |
| St. Albans Parker Quarry | Vermont | Trilobites, Brachiopods, Hyoliths | Permit-only | 4.1/5 |
Fossil Dig Tourism in Vermont
Discover the best fossil dig sites in Vermont, a hidden gem for family fossil hunting trips in Vermont, where the Champlain Valley unveils a 480-million-year-old ocean world. The Chazy Reef, one of Earth’s oldest coral reefs, shines at public fossil hunting areas in Vermont like Fisk Quarry Preserve and Goodsell Ridge, where visitors can observe trilobites, brachiopods, and stromatolites without collecting. These low-cost paleontology tours in Vermont are perfect for beginners, offering self-guided fossil digs in Vermont at sites like DAR State Park and Alburg Dunes, where Ordovician trilobites abound. Common fossils in Vermont, including corals and crinoids, are also visible at Northfield and Westmore, making them top rockhounding destinations in Vermont. Private sites like Georgia Center Trilobite Site and Panton Hatch Quarry allow limited collecting with permission, showcasing Cambrian Olenellus trilobites for paleontology field adventures in Vermont. Highgate Gorge and Swanton Kelley Quarry offer glimpses of Cambrian marine life, while historical sites like Fort Cassin and Charlotte Thompson Point, home to the famous Beluga whale fossil, enrich dinosaur dig vacations in Vermont—though no dinosaurs are found here. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring jurassic fossil parks in Vermont, with mild weather enhancing visits to coastal exposures along Lake Champlain. Vermont’s strict regulations protect these prehistoric site tours in Vermont, but joining the Burlington Gem and Mineral Club can unlock guided access to private sites. From Ordovician reefs to Pleistocene whale bones, fossil hunting in Vermont blends education and adventure, making it a must-visit for those wondering where to find fossils in Vermont, offering a unique journey into an ancient seabed for enthusiasts of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fossil Digging in the USA
Can anyone dig for fossils in national parks in Vermont?
No, collecting fossils in NPS sites is prohibited under the Paleontological Resources Preservation Act (2009). Vermont has no NPS fossil sites allowing collection.
What gear do I need for a fossil dig in Vermont?
For observation: sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen. Private sites (with permission): hand tools, gloves, magnifying glass. Check site rules.
Are there guided fossil digs in Vermont?
Limited. Goodsell Ridge offers self-guided tours; clubs like Burlington Gem and Mineral Club may organize guided visits to private sites.
What are the best seasons for fossil hunting in Vermont?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) for mild weather and clear visibility at sites like Fisk Quarry.
Can I keep fossils I find in Vermont?
No collecting in public preserves (Fisk Quarry, Goodsell Ridge). Private sites (e.g., Panton Hatch Quarry) may allow keeps with permission.
Are there educational programs for fossil hunting in Vermont?
Yes, Goodsell Ridge offers seasonal programs. VGS and local clubs provide workshops and field trips for enthusiasts.
Is fossil hunting safe for kids in Vermont?
Yes, with supervision. Preserves like DAR State Park are family-friendly for observation; private digs require adult oversight.
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