Geology & Paleontology of the
San Rafael Swell

Led by: Josh Lively, PhD

People come from near and far to visit "The Swell" for its opportunities for outdoor recreation, but did you know it preserves a deep geologic history? Join Dr. Joshua Lively for a geologic tour of the San Rafael Swell, traversing over 170 million years of geologic time across I-70 and through Buckhorn Draw.

We'll start our day in Green River and end in Castle Dale, making stops to cover the Permian, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous time periods. Learn the geologic stories behind The Swell's iconic scenery, and see a few fossils along the way!

SUNDAY | April 6, 2025

This full-day trip is excellent for anyone who loves scenic dirt road driving. Expect short hikes to outcrops of interest and a full day of learning!

  •  The trip leader encourages most vehicles, except those with the lowest clearance. (Think Toya Prius or Honda Fit)

  • Bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes, binoculars, camera, and snacks.

  • Josh Lively, PhD
    Paleontologist

    Joshua Lively, PhD, is the Curator of Paleontology at the Prehistoric Museum in Price, Utah. He earned his master's from the University of Utah where he studied Cretaceous turtles, and a PhD from The University of Texas at Austin, where he focused on mosasaurs and other Cretaceous marine life.