Paleon Museum

The Paleon Museum, located in Glenrock, is a hidden gem for anyone fascinated by the prehistoric world. Unlike large, static exhibits found in major metropolitan museums, the Paleon offers an intimate and immersive experience deeply connected to the local landscape. The museum's existence is a testament to the rich fossil beds of Converse County; it was founded after the discovery of a Triceratops skull, affectionately named "Stephanie," just outside of town in 1994. Visitors are not only able to view the significant fossils unearthed in the region, but also to understand the process of discovery itself. The exhibits feature an impressive array of specimens from the Late Cretaceous period, including fragments from the formidable Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex.

One of the most unique aspects of the Paleon Museum is its working preparation lab, which provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the science of paleontology. Guests can observe paleontologists and dedicated volunteers, often affectionately called the "Bone Biddies," meticulously cleaning and preserving fossils in real time. This hands-on approach demystifies the process of turning a rock-encased bone into a museum-quality specimen. The staff and volunteers are known for their willingness to engage with visitors, answering questions and sharing their expert knowledge, making the experience both educational and personal. This direct interaction highlights the museum's role not just as a place of display, but as an active center for ongoing research and discovery.

For the truly adventurous, the Paleon Museum offers an unparalleled opportunity to become a paleontologist for a day. Their "Dino Dig School" program allows visitors to participate in an actual fossil excavation at a local dig site. These excursions, which can range from a single day to an entire week, provide a hands-on experience in the very badlands where dinosaurs once roamed. Participants learn proper excavation techniques, search for fossils, and contribute to the ongoing research efforts of the museum. This unique program allows enthusiasts to move beyond passive observation and actively take part in scientific discovery, creating a memorable and educational adventure.

The museum's location in Converse County is no accident, as the area is part of the Lance Formation, a geological layer that holds some of the most important dinosaur fossils in North America. The nearby "Triceratops Gulch" is a sprawling area of exposed rock where a multitude of fossils have been found, including the first Triceratops skull that sparked the museum's creation. The Paleon Museum serves as the hub for discoveries from this site and others in the region. The fossils found here offer crucial insights into the paleoenvironment of the Late Cretaceous, helping scientists understand the world that existed in what is now Wyoming just before the extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs.

Beyond the bones and the digs, the Paleon Museum stands as a testament to the power of community and curiosity. It is a small-town institution with a global reach, attracting visitors and volunteers from around the world. The museum's ability to combine a quality public display with an active research program and immersive educational opportunities makes it more than just a place to see old bones.

Fun Facts

In 1995, paleontologists discovered a nearly complete Camarasaurus skeleton just outside of town—one of the most complete dinosaur skeletons ever found in Wyoming, and now on display at the Paleon Museum.

Attraction Advice

The Paleon Museum is open year-round Thursdays through Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission is $5 for those 12 years old and over. Children under 12 years old are free.