PA Natural Attractions

The Montour Preserve Fossil Pit | A Fossil Hunter’s Paradise

A collage of five photos from the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows an aerial view of the barren fossil pit. The top right photo is of the information kiosk with educational displays about the site. The middle right photo features a close-up of a hand holding a fossil. The bottom left picture shows the 'Into the Past' exhibit within the visitor center, and the bottom center image displays the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit sign on a post. The images collectively represent the educational and recreational experience at the fossil pit.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit, you’re in the right place!

The landscape of the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, featuring a wide, barren field of grayish sediment with a curved path leading through it. Sparse vegetation and leafless trees surround the area, typical of late fall or early spring. Overhead, the sky is dramatic with swirling white clouds against a bright blue backdrop, adding a dynamic contrast to the earthy tones below. — The fossil pit at the Montour Preserve first opened to the public in 1972.

Located 12 miles north of Danville in Montour County, the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit offers visitors the unique opportunity to dig for and take home any fossils they find.

An individual is holding a rock containing a fossil, discovered at the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania. The fossil appears to be a well-preserved, spiral-shaped shell embedded in gray stone, a find typical of the region known for its abundant fossil records. The person's fingers, with traces of dirt, suggest active digging or searching through the rocks at the fossil pit. — Small marine fossil I found at the Montour Preserve fossil pit.

That makes this one acre site a treasure trove for both amateur and seasoned fossil hunters.

An aerial view of the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, showing a vast expanse of barren, grayish shale with patches of standing water and sparse vegetation around. The landscape is mostly devoid of trees and has a desolate appearance, with signs of erosion and geological activity. The horizon is lined with distant hills and the sky is overcast, giving the area a stark, somewhat austere feel. — Aerial view of the one-acre fossil pit.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The Montour Preserve Fossil Pit is located at 160 Sportsmans Road, Danville, PA 17821.

There is a paved parking lot along Sportsmans Road next to the fossil pit.

A red SUV parked in a paved parking area near the Montour Preserve fossil pit close to Danville, Pennsylvania. The parking lot is marked by white lines with a "Parking By Permit Only" sign visible in the foreground. In the background, a wooden gate and information kiosk can be seen, marking the start of a trail, likely leading to the fossil pit. The trees are barren, suggesting the photo was taken in late fall or winter. The sky is overcast, giving the setting a moody atmosphere. — Parking area next to the fossil pit.

The fossil pit is open from dawn till dusk throughout the year.

The Montour Preserve Fossil Pit is open 365 days a year.

Best of all, the site welcomes everyone free of charge!

An informative kiosk at the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, provides educational content about the types of fossils that can be found in the area, such as brachiopods, cephalopods, corals, and trilobites. The board includes illustrations of these fossils, a section on fossil formation, and helpful tips for a safe visit. It encourages visitors to bring tools like hammers, chisels, and brushes for collecting fossils, and to observe safety precautions. The display is housed in a wooden frame with a protective roof and a gravel ground cover, set against a natural backdrop. — There is no charge to visit the fossil pit.

What You’ll See at the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit

A 150 yard-long gravel path leads from the parking lot to the fossil pit.

An entry gate to the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, with a sign that reads "FOSSIL PIT FOOT TRAFFIC ONLY" and further notes "PLEASE DO NOT GO DOWN IN WET CONDITIONS" and "NO DOGS EXCEPT SERVICE DOGS." The gate is a simple yellow metal barrier across a gravel path leading into a wooded area, indicating the start of a trail to the fossil pit. Trees with no leaves suggest it might be either late fall or winter. — Gated path to the fossil pit.

The fossil pit itself is a large, exposed hillside made of Mahantango Formation shale.

A close-up view of the rocky ground at the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, where visitors have dug shallow holes in search of fossils. The terrain is covered with fragments of slate and other sedimentary rocks, typical of fossil-rich sites. Leafless shrubs and trees in the background suggest it's outside the growing season, likely late fall or early spring. — The shale can have sharp edges, so long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended.

This particular shale, rich in small marine fossils, dates back to the Devonian Period, a time when much of Pennsylvania, including Montour County, lay beneath warm, shallow seas.

A map of Pennsylvania during the Devonian Period when most pf the state was covered by a shallow sea. — A map of Pennsylvania during the Devonian Period when most of the state was covered by a shallow sea (Image from brochure at the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit).

Just picking through surface rocks, I was able to find a half-dozen interesting fossils in the span of about 45 minutes.

A person's open hand displaying a dark slate-gray rock with the distinct impression of a fossilized leaf or fern. The fossil, clearly visible against the stone, shows the fine details of the ancient plant's structure. The hand appears to be at the Montour Preserve fossil pit near Danville, Pennsylvania, as suggested by the gravelly ground in the background which is typical of fossil pit terrains. — Another fossil/imprint I found picking through surface rocks.

The Montour Preserve Visitor Center

For those keen to learn more about their findings or the site itself, the Montour Preserve Visitor Center is just a short drive away.

The Visitor Center at Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, a welcoming red building with white trim and a sign that reads "VISITOR CENTER." It is a sunny day with blue skies, and the center is surrounded by well-maintained shrubbery and trees. The asphalt pathway leads to the front door, inviting visitors to explore the educational resources and exhibits housed within. — The Montour Preserve Visitor Center is located at 374 Preserve Road, Danville, PA 17821.

Situated on Preserve Road, about 1.25 miles southwest of the fossil pit, the center houses educational materials and fossil specimens.

An educational exhibit titled "Into the Past" at the Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, highlighting the geological timeline of Pennsylvania with colorful charts and fossil displays. The timeline showcases different eras with corresponding fossil types, and a central illustration depicts marine life during the Devonian period. The display, aimed at educating visitors about the region's prehistoric life, includes a counter labeled "FOSSILS" where actual specimens may be examined. The setting includes a carpeted floor and part of an overhead wooden structure, suggesting an indoor visitor center environment designed for learning. — Fossil exhibit in the Visitor Center.

Open daily from 8 am to 4 pm (may vary in the winter or around holidays), it offers further insights into the geological and historical significance of the area.

Inside the Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, the visitor center features educational displays. The centerpiece is a large "Pennsylvania Reptiles" exhibit showcasing various reptile species with information panels on frogs, salamanders, and toads. Hanging from the wooden beam ceiling are models of birds in mid-flight, adding to the naturalistic ambiance. To the right, there is a curved display with photographs related to local water bodies, possibly educating on the ecosystem. The room has a carpeted floor and multiple display cases, suggesting an interactive and educational environment for visitors of all ages. — Wildlife exhibit at the Visitor Center.

Lake Chillisquaque at the Montour Preserve

Adding to the allure of the Montour Preserve is Lake Chillisquaque, a serene 165-acre reservoir nestled on the middle branch of Chillisquaque Creek.

A scenic view of Lake Chillisquaque at Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, on a clear day. The landscape features a vibrant blue sky with wispy clouds, leafless trees, and evergreens around the tranquil lake. A grassy field in the foreground leads to a narrow road that runs alongside the lake, with dried tall grasses marking the edge of the water. The winter or early spring setting is indicated by the barren deciduous trees and the crispness of the air suggested by the clarity of the surroundings. — Lake Chillisquaque on a March afternoon.

This picturesque lake, originally constructed as a backup cooling water supply for the nearby Montour Steam Electric Station, now serves as a peaceful haven for nature lovers.

An aerial view of the fossil pit area at the Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania during what appears to be late fall or early spring. In the distance, Lake Chillisquaque can be seen surrounded by forested land. A clear path winds through the foreground, indicative of the walking trails available for visitors to explore the natural surroundings of the preserve. The sky is partially cloudy, suggesting a cool day. — The lake is open to boating and fishing, but not swimming.

Its name, ‘Chillisquaque,’ echoes the heritage of the land, derived from the Native American term meaning ‘song of the wild goose’.

A scenic view of Lake Chillisquaque at Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, featuring a winding rocky shoreline against a lush forest backdrop. The water is calm with a single duck swimming, and the sky above is a striking blue with soft clouds. On the right, a grassy area leads to the water’s edge, offering a peaceful setting for visitors. Trees without leaves suggest either late fall or early spring. — Geese on the lake.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique day out with the family, the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit near Danville is a destination that promises a journey through time.

An aerial view of the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit in March, 2024.

It’s not just about the thrill of discovery; it’s about connecting with the ancient past and understanding the vast timeline of our planet.

An exhibit at the Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, displaying a collection of fossils. A display counter with a top sign reading "FOSSILS" contains various fossil specimens, ranging from small fragments to larger rock-embedded samples. Below the specimens, descriptive information highlights different types of fossils such as crinoids and corals, providing educational content for visitors. The exhibit is part of a series aimed at illustrating the geological past of the area. — Fossil exhibit.

So, grab your fossil-hunting gear and head to the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit for an adventure 395 million years in the making, and take time to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Lake Chillisquaque as well.

A lakeside picnic area at Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, with a covered pavilion housing multiple picnic tables. The pavilion is positioned on a concrete pad overlooking the lake, providing a scenic spot for gatherings. Barren trees suggest the photo was taken in late fall or early spring. A vibrant green lawn stretches out in front of the pavilion, leading to the lake's edge.The sky is a bright blue with scattered clouds, indicating a clear day. — Lakeside picnic pavilion at the Montour Preserve.

For more information about the Montour Preserve, please check out its OFFICIAL WEBSITE.

The entrance sign for Montour Preserve near Danville, Pennsylvania, featuring a rustic wooden signboard with carved and painted text reading "Montour Preserve" and an image of a goose. The sign is framed by tall, conical evergreen trees and flanked by green and yellow bushes, with young daffodils just beginning to bloom at its base. The bright blue sky with few clouds suggests a pleasant day, and the lush greenery indicates either spring or summer. — The Montour Preserve offers a wide range of year-round outdoor activities.

Nearby Attractions

Bill’s Old Bike Barn in Bloomsburg may be the best repository of man-made fossils in Pennsylvania!

A collage of four photos presents a visual tour of Bill's Old Bike Barn in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. The first photo features the museum's rustic exterior sign surrounded by a collection of vintage memorabilia, including a boat and an old-fashioned bathtub. The second image showcases the interior with an array of colorful motorcycles, a large Captain America shield, and vibrant neon signs. The third photo offers a glimpse of a carnival-themed display with a merry-go-round, neon lights, and an array of classic bikes. The final image captures a charming indoor street scene with replica buildings, including a post office and a quaint cobblestone path lined with vintage motorcycles, giving visitors a sense of walking through a nostalgic small town. — Scenes from Bill’s Old Bike Barn.

Bill’s Old Bike Barn is a sprawling 55,000 square foot treasure trove of Americana, located 30 minutes southeast of the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit.

A colorful display case filled with vintage circus memorabilia at Bill's Old Bike Barn museum in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. The collection includes clown costumes and figurines, whimsical toys, and playful decorations. Above the display, the wall is covered with various circus-themed posters and old license plates, adding to the vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere of the exhibit. The showcase captures the joy and eccentricity of the circus, serving as a visual feast for visitors. — Circus memorabilia at Bill’s Old Bike Barn.

Be sure to check out my Natural Attractions page to discover more of Pennsylvania’s most amazing natural wonders!

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