Geologic Trail

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument has a few nice trails to explore, and one of the easiest and most rewarding is the Geologic Trail. After viewing the petrified redwood stumps near the visitor center, this should be the next activity. This walk is informative as well as scenic. Leaving from the back of the visitor center, the trail crosses a meadow with nice views of Crystal Peak to the north. Educational displays about the parkas history and geology are informative. After crossing the creek, the trail climbs gently through some lovely aspen groves to a fork. Taking the right sharp turn leads to the overlook that is the end of the official trail. There are nice vews of the valley and surrounding gently rolling mountains. For extra credit, taking the left fork follows the Hornbek Loop Trail. In about a quarter of a mile, just at the top of the ridge, there is a faint trail to the right following the ridge to some rock outcroppings that offer stunning views up and down the valley. This option adds about a mile to the overall hike.