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Join us for an evening of exploration and fossil discovery under the stars of Southeastern Montana. The evening will begin with a short orientation and tour at the Carter County Museum and then participants will travel to a dig site where they will hunt for fossils using ultraviolet flashlights. Materials and transportation will be provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Prospecting? Prospecting is the practice of searching for fossils and dig sites. It often involves hiking or sitting down, looking for tiny microfossils. Many of our programs feature this, and it is a great way to stretch your legs and explore!
What should I bring? Many of our programs are outdoors or in a lab, so proper clothing and gear are crucial! We recommend always having a small pack that can carry water and other necessities. Below is a useful checklist of must-haves:
- Close-toed outdoor shoes (no flip flops)
- Light, breathable clothing
- Extra jacket
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Headwear (hat/scarf/etc.)
What not to bring: We do provide a few items and services, so you do not have to worry about packing them with you! There is limited space in our vehicles, so please only pack the essentials!
- Firearms
- Alcohol & Tobacco- please no smoking
Things to keep in mind
These experiences are largely hosted outdoors. We try to accommodate all abilities, but expect:
- Mounting and dismounting vehicles frequently
- Hiking various distances across rugged terrain
- Unexpected weather conditions
- High temperatures and strong winds!
- Limited access to restrooms, “go before you go!”
- Limited cellular reception
- Bumpy, rural roads
- Bugs and other bothersome critters
Operating in remote outdoor regions, whilst collecting important resources like fossils comes with a few rules. Please follow these rules to ensure a safe experience for you and other guests.
Unfortunately no pet are allowed during our experiences, but you can book them a kennel at:
- Big Hill Boarding
- 4740 Highway 7, Baker, Montana 59313
- (406) 891-1364
- bighillboarding@gmail.com
- https://bighillboarding.com/
Please Note - During our programs, participants may not remove any material for personal or commercial purposes. The privilege to dig on private and public land is granted only for the duration of this single experience, and participants may not return to the property without receiving permission from the owner. You will be required to sign a waiver upon arrival and may ask the event organizer to see it once you receive your confirmation email.
All fossil material is deposited in the museum for scientific research and public education for generations to come!