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“The Mammoth Site is not just a window into the past—it’s as close to being a true time machine as you’ll find, with some of the best ice-age fossils on the planet on permanent display.”
Ross MacPhee,
Division of Vertebrate Zoology,
American Museum of Natural History, New York City.

Jr. Paleontology Program

This educational simulated excavation for "Junior Paleontologists" ages 4-12 is held 7 days a week at the Mammoth Site from June 1st through August 15th. Sessions are 10am, 11am, 2pm and 3pm daily June and July. 2pm only August 1-15th.

Paleontological excavation techniques are taught, including identification of replica mammoth and giant short-faced bear fossils. Wear appropriate clothing as participants get dirty. A parent or guardian must stay at the Mammoth Site during the program with seating available near the dig box. Photos and filming are encouraged. Participants bring home a fossil identification booklet and a Jr. Paleontologist completion certificate suitable for framing.

The Jr. Paleontologist Program fee for each child is $10.00 (tax included). Regular Museum admission is not included in the Junior Paleontologist Excavation fee.

Participants are required to attend the Museum's 30-minute guided tour before the Jr. Dig. On the tour participants hear the Site's history, learn how the fossils were excavated, and why they are preserved.

Advanced Paleontology Program

Based upon and expanded from our Jr. Paleontologist program, participants 5 and over will be taught proper excavation techniques and bone identification. They will learn how to map and jacket a bone. This class will be offered at 4pm daily during June and July.

The fee for each participant is $20.00 (tax included). Regular Museum admission is not included in the Advanced Paleontology Program fee.

Participants are required to attend the Museum's 30-minute guided tour before the Advanced Dig. On the tour, participants hear the Site's history, learn how the fossils were excavated, and why they are preserved.

Atlatl Throwing Experience

We are recreating an Ice-Age Skill - Atlatl Hunting! Participants will be taught the history, types and techniques of the Atlatl. Designed for students 5 and older. Instruction on throwing the atlatl is included with time allowed for each person to practice this ancient hunting skill. The Atlatl program will be offered at 2pm June1-August 15th.

The fee for each participant is $10.00 (tax included). Regular Museum admission is not included in the Atlatl Throwing Program fee.