FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT QUARRY HILL
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Can I collect fossils at Quarry Hill?
Fossil hunting in Quarry Hill Park is a treasured tradition in the Rochester community. There is no fee. No tools are necessary. A small rock hammer or small brush for dusting are acceptable. Respect for the Quarry is appreciated and can be shown by:
- Leaving fossils that are larger than the palm of your hand
- Not dislodging large amounts of limestone
- Taking out all items you brought in, including food, trash, etc.
Hours
The Quarry is part of Quarry Hill Park and is open during park hours, daily from dawn to dusk.
Getting to the Quarry
Many trails lead to the Quarry. Parking on the west side of the Park (2100 9th St. NE, Rochester, MN 55906) and hiking up from there is the quickest route from car to Quarry. Parking on the east side of the Park (701 Silver Creek Rd NE, Rochester, MN 55906) you can stop in the Nature Center, use the restrooms, fill your water bottles and visit the fossil exhibit to preview what you’ll be looking for in the Quarry. Nature Center building hours are Mon - Sat, 9am - 4pm, Sun, 12pm - 4pm.
Good to Know
There is no restroom or source of drinking water in the Quarry.
The Quarry floods after rapid rain fall or snow melt. It can become very muddy at times.
The Quarry is beautiful all year long. Fossil hunting is best when the fossils are not under the snow or water! Late Spring, Summer & Fall are recommended.
Get a park map here.
Get a fossil identification sheet here.
Group Fossil Hunting
Groups such as school & youth groups, organizations, etc. wishing to fossil hunt must contact the Nature Center prior to visiting.
