Alaska is one of the most beautiful destinations because of its natural resources, fauna, and history. Its location makes it an attractive destination for tourism, especially if you’re looking to rockhound.
This state is famously known for its prehistoric heritage, so there is a lot to talk about and explore when it comes to fossils and agent species.
But the most important thing you should know about these states is that when looking for fossils, rocks or minerals, this state has it all. It’s a rich land. I’m sure Russia regrets selling it.
Having said that, it doesn’t mean you can just take a trip and export anything you find or want from the state. There are very strict rules and regulations implemented by law enforcement and groups to preserve the natural resource and habitat of Alaska as it should be.
So if you’re looking for fossils or to rockhound in the area, there is definitely a place for you, but you must do it by obeying the rules and law.
In doing so, you will preserve the history of what you’re eager to get your hands on for all of us and future generations.
The state of Alaska contains fossil-bearing rocks from the Precambrian through the Quaternary era. In ester Alaska, you can find stromatolites from this period.
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Where to Find Fossils in Alaska?
Alaska is a great place to find fossils. There are many locations that you can explore. A great example of this is the Fossil Point located in Tuxedni bay, Alaska. This location is famously known for how easy it is to find fossils on its beaches. There are also other locations like:
1. National Parks
Parks are a great location you can start with; you’ll have the opportunity to explore nature but also the excitement of finding fossils.
But it’s important to note that collecting fossils without permits in national parks is illegal. So make sure to get all your permits before removing any types of artifacts or fossils.
An example of some of the parks you can visit are:
Denali National Park and Preserve is located at Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK.
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve located at 101 Dunkel St, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is located at Wrangell Mountains, Alaska 99566.
Canoe Passage State Marine Park is an island that you can find 8 miles west of Cordova, Alaska.
2. State Parks
Another option you have is visiting the state parks in Alaska, which you’ll require a perming in order to collect any types of fossils or artifacts.
Some of the parks you visit are:
Shoup Bay State Marine Park located at Valdez, AK 99686.
Chugach State Park located at 9025 Hesterberg Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577.
Chugach State Park Indian Creek is located at Parking lot, Anchorage, AK 99540.
Birch Lake State Recreation Site located at Birch Lake Pull Off, Salcha, AK 99714.
Point Bridget State Park is located at Juneau, AK 99801.
These are only a few; there are many other state parks you can visit, which is great for some that are looking to find fossils or rockhounds in general.
To find the other location, you can literally google State Parks in Alaska, and a big list will come up.
3. Private Property
Private property is a great option, especially if you have the contacts; how it usually works is a friend of a friend told me that you could go to this guy’s farm.
But let’s face it, many of us don’t have contact, but if you find an interesting area that you want to explore, you just have to ask for permission. You can even get into an agreement with the property owner among any “treasures” you can find.
This might even motivate them to let you explore their property.
4. Bureau of Land Management lands
One of the best resources you can use is contacting the bureau of land. They have many resources and can point you in the right direction to locations where you can explore and the permits you may need.
They have many locations, but here is their contact information.
Fossils Found in Alaska
Alaska is famously known for all the types of fossils that have been found in this area; the earliest fossils known in this state go back to the Paleozoic era that 550-250 million years ago (that’s old).
During that time, most of Alaska was underwater, so the typical fossils that have been found include alga mats and marine critters such as brachiopods and echinoderms.
But Mesozoic dinosaurs and other creatures have also been found.
Fossil Collecting Laws in Alaska
Any types of fossils that you find, whether they are burrows, bones, plants, or artifacts that belong to early human civilizations, are part of human history.
It is very important for you not to touch, destroy, or remove the findings. You can record the location, take pictures and immediately inform the landowner.
Unless you have the necessary permits, you are not allowed to collect vertebrate fossils or artifacts.
Federal state and private landowners have different rules when it comes to allowing this type of activity, so it is important to get in contact with the state or landowner before removing any type of fossils.
Conclusion: Where to Find Fossils in Alaska?
Alaska is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re looking for a place to explore. And when it comes to finding fossils or studying its history, Alaska has a lot to offer.
My best recommendation is to start by visiting some of the locations I mention in this article, and with time I’m sure you will be able to find many more.
And I’m sure you will be able to make some friends in the process that will put you in contact with some great fossil locations that might be privately owned.
But even if you don’t get to meet doesn’t type of people with the location mentioned in this article, you have more than enough land to keep you occupied for a very long time.