Many geologists claim it holds one of the most complete geological records of any place in the world. Within the Grand Staircase National Monument alone is a treasure trove of Geo and Paleo history. Anywhere within the Monument is off-limits to collecting, but you can still look. If you are into collecting fossils, you can find some outside of the Grand Staircase Monument boundaries . Bear in mind that vertrebrate fossils are not OK to collect unless you are on private land, and have the landowner's permission.
Geological maps can save lots of driving, walking, and time by pinpointing areas of likely success.
If you just want to explore without the aid of geological publications, and don't intend to collect, the Circle Cliffs , and the Straight Cliffs are two excellent areas to begin. The cliffs and shale beds near Tropic yield oyster and other fossil mollusks. A BLM or Forest Service map will help you find the backroads in the area. For a visual tour through selected parts of Southern Utah, visit Petrified Woody's photo index. Some Photos pertaining to the Geology of Utah.