Sherman Pass Scenic Byway
Stonerose Interpretive Center, WA

Million of years ago, during the Eocene Epoch, the waters of an ancient lake covered this area near Republic. As the lakebed filled with volcanic ash and sediment, leaves, flowers, fish, and insects were trapped in the layers of ensuing mud. Today the lake is gone, but the items that were trapped in its bed remain as fossils. Located along Knob Hill Road, the Boot Hill Fossil Site allows paleontologists and one-time fossil hunters the chance to discover examples of Eocene plant life. After purchasing an admission sticker from the Stonerose Interpretive Center, each visitor is allowed to take home three fossils a day; although, the museum reserves the right to retain fossils of scientific interest. While there is the gamble of not finding a fossil, visitors are likely to find a number of lovely, delicate fossils.

Visitors may rent tools from the Interpretive Center, or bring their own. A hammer (geologist of bricklayer variety), a thin chisel, and a container to hold fossils uncovered are necessary.