Full Day Quarry Access

Explore a Full Day of Fossil Hunting at Utah’s Premier Quarry

The Full Day Quarry Access tour offers a unique opportunity to dig for your own fossils at a renowned quarry located just an hour west of Delta, Utah. Priced at $145.35 per person, this 8-hour adventure is perfect for those interested in natural history and hands-on discovery. The tour provides mobile tickets for easy access, making it a straightforward way to explore one of the richest Cambrian formations on Earth.

This experience stands out because it allows participants to collect their own museum-quality trilobite fossils from layers of 500-million-year-old shale. Guided by experts, visitors gain not only a chance to uncover fossils but also a deeper understanding of the geological history beneath their feet. While no food or drinks are included, the focus on fossil collection and learning makes this a rewarding outdoor activity for curious minds.

Convenient Location and Simple Meeting Arrangements

The tour begins at U-Dig Fossils on Death Canyon Rd, Delta, UT 84624, where all adventure logistics are organized. The meeting point is easy to find, and the activity ends back at the same location, simplifying planning. Since private transportation is not included, participants should arrange their own travel to the meeting site.

The mobile ticket system ensures smooth check-in, and the confirmation is received immediately upon booking. The tour’s group size is capped at 200 travelers, which helps maintain a manageable and engaging atmosphere. The accessibility of this tour makes it suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed for those needing assistance.

What to Expect During the Fossil Dig

Once at U-Dig Fossils, visitors are greeted by an operator who provides tools and detailed instructions on how to carefully extract fossils from the shale. The focus is on hands-on collection, with guidance on where and how to find the most promising spots. Expect to spend a significant part of the day sifting through layers of shale to find trilobite fossils—some of the most well-preserved specimens from the Cambrian period.

The experience is designed to be educational and rewarding, with experts offering insights into the geological significance of the quarry. As you work through the layers, you’ll appreciate the rarity of discovering museum-quality fossils and the patience required for fossil hunting. The tools provided make the process accessible for beginners while still offering a challenge for more experienced collectors.

The Unique Appeal of Cambrian Fossil Collection

This tour takes place at one of the richest Cambrian formations on Earth, making the fossils you collect particularly special. The 500-million-year-old shale layers hide trilobite fossils that are prized by collectors and museums alike. The opportunity to keep your own fossils adds a tangible sense of achievement to the day.

Participants can expect to find specimens of notable quality, and the guided instructions help maximize the chance of uncovering significant fossils. It’s an engaging activity for anyone curious about Earth’s early life, with the added excitement of possessing a real piece of history.

Practical Considerations and Tour Limitations

While the tour offers a full day of exploration, there are some practical points to consider. The activity is weather-dependent, so poor conditions may lead to cancellation or rescheduling. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered, ensuring peace of mind.

Since food and drinks are not included, visitors should plan to bring their own snacks and water. The physical activity involved requires standing and moderate walking, making it accessible for most, but participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions.

No transportation is provided, so travelers need to arrange their own arrival at the meeting point. The tour’s group size generally remains manageable, but it can accommodate up to 200 people.

The Significance of Expert Guidance and Tools Provided

The operator at U-Dig Fossils plays a key role in ensuring every participant understands the process and feels comfortable during excavation. They offer expert guidance and tools, making fossil hunting accessible even for complete beginners. The instructions focus on safe and effective collection, helping visitors avoid damaging the fossils or shale.

This guidance enhances the overall experience, transforming a simple excavation into an educational activity. The tools provided help participants get the best results, and the personalized advice ensures everyone has a fair shot at discovering fossils worth taking home.

Who Will Appreciate the Full Day Quarry Experience?

This tour is ideal for geology enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to get hands-on with prehistoric fossils. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, collecting, or learning through direct experience. The full-day duration allows ample time to explore and find impressive fossils, making it perfect for those seeking a meaningful and active day out.

Since no prior experience is necessary, it’s accessible for beginners, but the opportunity to find museum-quality trilobites adds appeal for seasoned collectors as well. The guided instructions and tools help demystify the fossil hunting process, making it a rewarding activity for all ages.

Price and Value for a Full-Day Fossil Dig

At $145.35 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive and engaging fossil collection experience. The price includes admission, tools, and expert guidance, providing good value for a full day of outdoor exploration and learning. Visitors walk away with their own fossils, adding a tangible souvenir to remember the day.

While no food is included, the overall experience—access to one of the top Cambrian fossil formations and the chance to collect specimens—makes this a worthwhile investment for those interested in natural history and hands-on discovery.

Cancellation and Weather Policies

Booking this tour comes with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor, the activity may be canceled, but you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. This flexibility ensures that weather does not spoil the experience, especially since outdoor fossil hunting depends on good conditions.

Participants should plan accordingly and stay alert to weather forecasts to make the most of their day at the quarry.

The Sum Up: A Hands-On Fossil Dig Near Delta, Utah

The Full Day Quarry Access tour from U-Dig Fossils offers a unique opportunity to search for and keep your own trilobite fossils from one of the most prolific Cambrian formations in the world. The 8-hour experience balances guidance and independent exploration, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

While weather considerations and the lack of food inclusion are factors to watch, the experience’s educational value and the chance to discover authentic fossils make it a compelling choice. This tour particularly appeals to fossil enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to connect directly with Earth’s ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the quarry included?
No, private transportation is not included. Visitors need to arrange their own travel to the meeting point at U-Dig Fossils.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so participants should bring their own snacks and water.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 200 travelers at once, helping maintain a manageable and engaging environment.

Can beginners participate in this fossil hunting experience?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most, with guidance and tools provided to help even first-time collectors succeed.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you will receive a full refund or can reschedule for a different date.