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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Big Cedar Ridge

Ten Sleep, Wyoming · Washakie County

The Big Cedar Ridge Fossil Site is located in the great wide open southeast of Worland. Seventy million years ago, a mudflow of volcanic ash suddenly entombed the entire landscape around Big Cedar Ridge. The plants were fossilized where they were growing. In the past 20 years, scientists have identified over 100 new pl…

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About Big Cedar Ridge

The Big Cedar Ridge Fossil Site is located in the great wide open southeast of Worland. Seventy million years ago, a mudflow of volcanic ash suddenly entombed the entire landscape around Big Cedar Ridge. The plants were fossilized where they were growing. In the past 20 years, scientists have identified over 100 new plant species and have been able to distinguish at least five different types of insects that fed on the plants at Big Cedar Ridge. Interpretive panels discuss the geology and illustrate the fossilized plants of the area. On BLM-managed land, reasonable amounts of common plant and invertebrate fossils (like those from leaves, cones, seeds, clams and corals) can be collected for personal use. Vertebrate fossils (like those from dinosaurs, fish and turtles) and archeological artifacts cannot be collected without permission from the local BLM office.

How to Get There

To reach Big Cedar Ridge, travel east from Worland on U.S. Highway 16 for approximately 15 miles then turn south onto BLM Road 1411 (Blue Bank Road). Follow Blue Bank Road for 14.5 miles and look for a parking area and interpretive panels on the right (west side of the road).

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Big Cedar Ridge

Heading to Big Cedar Ridge? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Big Cedar Ridge?

No central reservation system listed for Big Cedar Ridge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14684) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Big Cedar Ridge?

To reach Big Cedar Ridge, travel east from Worland on U.S. Highway 16 for approximately 15 miles then turn south onto BLM Road 1411 (Blue Bank Road). Follow Blue Bank Road for 14.5 miles and look for a parking area and interpretive panels on the right (west side of the road).

How do I contact Big Cedar Ridge?

You can reach the park at phone: 307-347-5100 or email: worland_wymail@blm.gov.