Bruneau Woodpile Geologic Field Trip

This geologic field trip will be to the famous “Bruneau Woodpile” and is centered on collecting petrified wood and other fossils without any digging. We'll be carpooling from the Albertsons Parking Lot (near McDonalds but not at McDonalds) at 6574 S Federal Way and Hwy 21 at 9:45 AM. High Clearance and 4WD vehicles are preferred but regular vehicles can be left near the gate ~250 yards from our parking spot. This trip is good for ages 7+ but will require walking on uneven ground and rocks for ½ mile or less. We will spend ~2 hours exploring the area and picking up petrified wood, having lunch and then return to One-Stop and then to the meetup location at ~3-4 PM.

Sponsored by Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology (IMMG), 2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. Nonmembers of the IMMG $20, IMMG Members and Children are free.

Full refunds if the IMMG cancels the trip due to the weather. Check your email day before.

This will be a one-stop field trip although Bruneau Dunes State Park is very nearby and could make a good 2nd stop for those wanting to go explore this geologic wonder. An Idaho State Park Pass or entrance fee is required.

Be prepared: Hiking clothes, boots, sun hat, gloves, lunch, water, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camp chair if you have one. Bring a rock hammer if you can.

About Trip Leader, Steven Sawyer:

Originally from the UK, Steven holds a degree in Geosciences from the University of Oxford and a Ph.D. in Petroleum Geology from the University of Edinburgh. After 15 years working as an Exploration Geologist in the Oil and Gas industry, Steven relocated to Boise in 2021. He is enthusiastic about the Mountain West's remarkable geology and its opportunities for discovery. In leading field excursions, Steven is eager to share his knowledge of Earth's processes with his love for teaching and exploration. Steven has been an active volunteer with the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology since 2023.

This adventure requires a waiver. By signing up for this Field trip you agree to the following: The registered individual accepts and does hereby assume any and all risks for himself and those on his ticket, for possible dangers and hazards involved in connection with the field trip designated above, offered by the IDAHO MUSEUM OF MINING AND GEOLOGY (IMMG), and does hereby SAVE AND HOLD HARMLESS the trip leader(s), IMMG and all officers and representatives of IMMG from any and all claims, losses, or damages, including attorney’s fees and costs because of said claims, on account of injury, death, property damage, and inconvenience or loss of money due to delay or other cause that may rise, by reason of my participation in the field trip. I understand that my use of alcohol or drugs would impair my judgment and coordination, and will hold IMMG harmless from any claims arising from my use of either. I understand I am responsible for carrying my own automobile, life, and health insurance.

Please contact [email protected] if you have questions.

Event Venue

Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, 2455 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, United States