Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu is known worldwide among paleontologists as the location of the articulated fossils of the Coelophysis (SEE-Low-FY-sis), as well as having one of the richest quarries of the Triassic era, which began 220 million years ago. The museum is named for amateur paleontologist Ruth Hall, wife of first resident Ghost Ranch Director Jim Hall. Displays range from a complete Coelophysis cast skeleton to remains from great alligator-like reptiles. The Coelophysis also has the distinction of being named the State Fossil of New Mexico.

For 2008, the Museum of Paleontology is pleased to offer the following courses:

June 23 - 29     Paleontology at Ghost Ranch  SW644

June 30 - July 6    Dinosaurs, Fossils, and Fun!  SW713

September 29 - October 5    Fall Paleontology  SW1011

For more information, see our online catalog. Registration forms may also be downloaded from the Home Page, under Forms/Downloads.

A technician is currently at work on a large block taken from the quarry on Ghost Ranch where Coelophysis  was discovered in 1947.  Visit the museum and watch fossil discovery right before your eyes.

Annually, approximately 2,000-3,000 school children visit the museum on field trips and participate in related educational activities such as the "Dinosaur Bone Dig" and "Plaster Bone Casting" as well as a hike to the quarry site. To arrange an outing for your group, please call the museum at 505.685.4333, ext. 118.

Items for Sale at the Museum Gift Shop:

* Books about Coelophysis, the little dinosaur of Ghost Ranch, and other dinosaur-related items   

* Georgia O'Keeffe books and other items   

* Santa Clara Black-on-Black pottery by Maria Naranjo and daughter Martha Mirabal   

* Lovely handmade silver and turquoise jewelry by Mars Coriz of Santa Domingo Pueblo; earrings and pins feature Cerro Pedernal

* Posters, postcards, mugs, T-shirts and many more items for children and adults    

Updated 3/18/08