The landscape is inspiring with its many shapes carved by the elements. It varies from the flat land when you first enter the park to the high plateau by Radio Hill. The rusty red colors of scoria are in contrast to the thick darker layers and tans that surround them. You will see formations worn by time with such names as Baked Potato, Moby Dick, and the Natural Bridge. The other areas in the park include Hungry Joe Hill, Cains Coulee, the Cottonwood area, Radio Hill, and Valley Loop drive. These all offer a scenic and varied look at the park.
The fossils found here record over 70 million years of life in the area. They vary from the small shells and plants to the Hadrosaurus, Triceratops, Ankylosaurus, Ornithomimus, and the Tyrannosaurus. Some samples of the fossils that have been found are in the museum. Tyrannosaurus Peak is plainly visable as you enter the park. Dr R.W. Hyatt an amateur paleontologist named this landmark after finding a Tyrannosaurus Rex tooth in that area. The Tyrannosaurus was the largest of all land living predators and is believed to have weighed upwards to eight tons with a height of 20 feet and length of up to 50 feet. It had 60 very sharp teeth in its mouth and the teeth were saw edged. It is believed to be a meat eater because of this. The fossil remains of this one are scarce but one almost complete one was found and several museums and volunteers helped to recover it.
If you are in the area be sure to make this one of your stops. The neighboring city of Glendive is also known for its Montana agates. Those picturesque slabs you see with the clear to smoky agate and assorted color dendrites forming scenery in them.
