A visit to the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument near Mueller State Park revealed a forest that is quite different than what we see today. Amongst the living Ponderosa Pines are massive Redwood stumps fossilized by volcanic mud. This trio of Redwood stumps are related, because Redwoods will grow from a parent tree.
We hiked the Petrified Forest trail to view more Redwood stumps and along the way this Blue Flag Wild Iris was blooming.
Officially named “The Big Stump”, it is believed this tree stood at 250 feet tall. Scientists studying the fossilized rings believe this ancient stand of Redwoods lived in a more nourishing environment than the current stands in California.
There were about 5 stumps to view along the trail, this one with a flowering Western Wallflower at it’s base, and another 5 protected near the visitor center. The area was ravaged by treasure hunters in the late 1800’s and most of the petrified wood was removed. The National Monument now protects what is left and is making efforts to preserve what remains by building shelters over some of the larger specimens and even reburying others for protection.
The Hornbek homestead provides a glimpse of early Pioneer life. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument marks Caleb’s 5th Junior Ranger Program this summer! We will soon be making our way towards one of our favorite places, the Black Hills of South Dakota, with a much anticipated Cabela’s stop en route.
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