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Prehistoric Trackways Discovery Site

Area Producing the Most Paleozoic Vertebrate Trace Fossils in the World

Fossil Trackway on Discovery Trail in Prehistoric Trackways NM, Chihuahuan Desert near Doña Ana, NM

In 1987, Jerry MacDonald discovered well preserved Paleozoic Era tracks at this site. While scattered tracks had been found previously in the area, MacDonald’s excavation ultimately yielded thousands of trace fossils, including several long trackways. Some even included direct evidence of interactions between different species, not just tracks of isolated individuals. More about the discovery and area on Wikipedia.

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Viewing Fossils Today

While some isolated fossils can be seen at this site today by any visitor, it’s best experienced as part of a guided tour. Check with the local Las Cruces BLM office for details on these incredibly rewarding but only occasionally offered opportunities.

To preserve them for ongoing and future scientific study, some trackway fossils have been removed and transported to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, making up the Jerry MacDonald Paleozoic Trackways Collection. Anyone interested in viewing these fascinating tracks can do so by visiting the Museum, which offers public tours of their Geoscience Collection, including the Trackways Collection, by reservation. The Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science also has a 30 foot and a 15 foot trackway on display. Source: BLM

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Prehistoric Trackways Trailhead

Trailhead in Chihuahuan Desert near Doña Ana, NM

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Fossil Trackway