Maidan | Kolkata

Information

Landmark: Maidan
City: Kolkata
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Maidan, Kolkata, India, Asia

Fossil Lake Trail is a geological site located in Kemmerer, Wyoming, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The trail traverses an area characterized by sedimentary rock formations, primarily shale and limestone, exhibiting distinct layering. The exposed rock faces reveal fossilized fish and plant imprints. The surrounding vegetation consists of sagebrush, grasses, and scattered juniper trees.

Location & Access Logistics

The trailhead is situated approximately 10 miles southwest of Kemmerer, Wyoming. Access is via Fossil Butte Road (County Road 132), a paved road for the initial portion, transitioning to a well-maintained gravel road. Parking is available at a designated lot near the trailhead. No public transport services this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Fossil Lake represents an ancient freshwater lake bed from the Eocene epoch, approximately 50 million years ago. The site is renowned for its exceptionally preserved fossil fish, particularly the Green River Formation's Sprague fossils. The geological formation is classified as lacustrine (lake deposit).

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the marked trail to observe exposed fossil beds. The primary activity is the visual inspection of fossilized remains within the rock strata. Educational signage details the geological history and fossil discoveries.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the trailhead parking area. Limited shade is provided by natural rock overhangs in select areas. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable. No food vendors are present at the site; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates shadows that highlight the rock formations and fossil details. The months of May through October offer the most favorable weather conditions, with minimal snow cover and moderate temperatures.

Facts & Legends

Fossil Lake is one of the most significant fossil fish sites globally, yielding millions of specimens. A unique tip for visitors is to look closely at the lighter-colored layers within the shale; these often contain the most detailed fossil imprints.