This locality is in southern Utah, 15 miles north of Page, AZ. The site is a small section of land controlled by the State of Utah.
The site borders the Escalante - Grand Staircase National Monument and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Collecting fossils of any kind on the federal lands is strictly prohibited.
It is legal to collect invertebrates on the land controlled by the State of Utah.
Tropic Shale
The Tropic Shale is the dark grey layer which begins at the base of the hard rock composing the steep cliff faces.
It extends downward and is extensively exposed in the eroded flats.
Eroded Flats
Most of the fossils are found in association with the oyster layers,
which are similar in appearance to the light brown area in the foreground of the photo above.
In some places, the oyster shells comprise the entire surface.
Oyster Layer
Common fossils in the oyster layer include small straight ammonite fragments (Baculites),
several species of gastopods and of course, oysters. Coiled ammonites and sharks teeth may also be found.
Fragment of a coiled Ammonite
A more complete specimen
Typical fossils of the Tropic Shale
Directions: Big Water is located on US 89, about 15 miles north of Page, and 50 miles east of Kanab.
The access road to the locality is the road going into Big Water, directly across the road from the Visitor's Center.
Go past the market, a couple of boat yards and turn right on Route 12 which is marked by a wooded sign.
Follow Route 12 down and across the Wahweap river and continue east a mile or so.
If you get to the sign denoting the Glen Canyon NRA, turn around and park 1/4 a mile back and you'll be good.
Collecting is permitted in the lands to up to the cliff faces where the Nat'l monument lands begin.
If you come in the summer, bring LOTS OF WATER (1 Gal each), SUNSCREEN and a BIG HAT.
No tools are needed and its a great place for kids.
Enjoy a refreshing ice cream cone at the local market on your way in or out.
They have a small display of local finds.
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