Guide to Finding Fossils at Elk Head

Directions:

From Arcata, North on Hwy. 101, take the Trinidad exit.

Geology of the Area:

Around 500,000 years ago (Pleistocene Epoch), this area was an intertidal zone with tidepools and serge channels. 

Paleontology of the Area:

“trace fossils”, which are hundreds of holes made by pholads or boring clams, along with mussels, dogwinkles and worm tubes.

Other Fossil Sites Nearby:

Scotia Bluffs: link

Centerville Beach: link

All information cited from:

“5 Top Fossil Sites Around Humboldt Bay”, https://www.theredwoodriverwalk.com/blog/2020/09/5-top-fossil-sites-around-humboldt-bay-ca.htm

Where to Find Fossils at Surfer’s Knoll

Geology: Very similar to that of other Ventura fossil sites such as:

Coal Point: link

Rincon Point: link

Ojai Trails: link

Sespe Wilderness: link

Paleontology: Black fossil bone about 14-15 inches long, which was found in a layer of sand that was cut into by the waves, was submitted on November 18th, 2016.

Other: If you have any input that would help identify the fossil, feel free to contact us and we will update this find.

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