Sloths to Mammoths: Paleontology of Joshua Tree National Park
Schedule
Sat May 09 2026 at 09:00 am to 12:00 pm
UTC-07:00Location
Park Blvd, Joshua Tree National Park | Joshua Tree National Park, CA
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Step back in time and discover the prehistoric wonders of Joshua Tree National Park with vertebrate paleontologist Brittney Elizabeth Stoneburg. This immersive course explores the fascinating fossil record of the region, revealing the ancient landscapes that once supported colossal creatures like ground sloths, mammoths, and other Ice Age animals. Learn how scientists' piece together the park’s paleontological history and what these discoveries reveal about long-term climate and ecosystem changes in the Mojave Desert. The program concludes with a guided hike, where participants will explore the park’s geology firsthand, connecting ancient fossils to the rocks and formations that preserve Joshua Tree’s deep past. This field class takes place in Joshua Tree National Park. Anyone may attend! No experience or expertise is required.Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not included in the cost of enrollment. Visit recreation.gov or a visitor center to purchase your pass ahead of time. No meals or equipment are provided. Participants caravan in their personal vehicles. Carpooling with other participants is recommended. This class is moderate. It requires less than 5 miles of walking with limited elevation gain on somewhat variable terrain and/or more than one hour outdoors in the elements. Meet Your Instructor! Brittney Elizabeth Stoneburg is a vertebrate paleontologist, a Marketing Manager for the Western Science Center, a natural history museum in Hemet, CA. She holds a master's degree in environmental science from California State University, Fullerton, and her research focuses on fossil mammals from Southern California, particularly mastodons and horses. She has conducted scientific fieldwork across the United States, including right here in Joshua Tree National Park. Equipment list: A minimum of 2 to 3 liters of water, food and snacks, closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots — no sandals are permitted, including hiking sandals, sun protection, including hat, sunglasses, sunscreen — light-colored long-sleeved shirts are recommended, daypack to carry equipment and personal items, notebook and writing utensil, full tank of gas prior to arriving at the meeting location. Photo credit: Chris Andersen
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Where is it happening?
Park Blvd, Joshua Tree National Park, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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