Ever wonder what it’s like to be a paleontologist? Now you can experience it for yourself as part of a special members-only experience and trip this summer! Academy members are invited to join us for an exciting adventure-filled week prospecting for fossils and exploring the culture and history of the Bighorn Basin of Montana and Wyoming.

Academy and Elevation Sciences (ES) paleontologists will lead members into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, where we will collect Jurassic and Cretaceous terrestrial fossils, including dinosaurs. In the evenings after we dig, we’ll learn about the geology and paleontology of the area.

Before our trip, participants will get a chance to attend a special reception at the Academy, meeting our staff and the ES team members who will be in the field with you. We’ll get you ready for the trip, covering what to expect and bring. We’ll get you set up with your field notebooks, guide and some Academy branded field gear.

During the trip, we will discover the natural history, human history and culture of one of the most beautiful habitats in North America. We’ll tour the incredible Beartooth Pass—with an elevation of 10,947 feet, it’s the highest paved highway in the Northern Rocky Mountains—and enjoy the spectacular sunset while sipping hot chocolate.

Don’t miss out on this special members-only opportunity. Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!

Dates:

Sunday, July 30–Saturday, August 5, 2023

Requirements:

• Proof of vaccination against COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccinations are required for all participants
• Must be at least 13 years old by July 1, 2023 (13–17 must be accompanied by an adult)
• Good physical condition
• Proof of health insurance
• Completed registration forms

Accommodations:

Members’ Paleontology Field Study participants will stay at the Yellowstone-Bighorn Research Association (YBRA) in Red Lodge, Montana. Located on the edge of the front range of the Beartooth Mountains overlooking Red Lodge, the field station is a comfortable facility with cabins, home-style cooking, and spectacular views. Most showers are shared facilities (think campground). 

Detailed information about the field camp can be found here: https://ybra.org/

Lodging and meals are covered by the fees.

Fees:

$2,500 per person

Fees include registration, food, lodging, collecting tools and equipment, transportation between basecamp and the Billings airport, transportation from basecamp to and from all field sites, and all instruction and educational materials.

NOTE: Fees do not include transportation to and from your home to Billings, Montana. Member participants are responsible for booking all air travel to and from Billings, Montana.

Registration:

To reserve your spot, please contact Caitlin O'Brien in the Academy Membership Office at 215-405-5079 or obrien@ansp.org with any questions.

Click here to download the trip packet and learn more!
Click here to download registration forms.

Payment Schedule:

• 20% deposit of total due up front to hold your spot
• 50% of remaining balance is due May 22, 2023
• Final Payment (and registration deadline) is June 16, 2023