We say the oldest place in VT, but this site is known for being the oldest of its kind in the world! That’s right, the Chazy Fossil Reef is recognized as the oldest known diverse fossil reef in the world. If you think that fossils may not be your cup of tea, think again. This 1,567-acre site was dedicated as a National Natural Landmark and is lovingly preserved by the Isle La Motte Preservation Trust. Here you’ll find a museum and education center, as well as outdoor trails that take you on a journey back in time. Let’s take a look at this amazing place that everyone should have on their bucket list.

The picturesque Isle La Motte is known for its beauty, as well as the oldest diverse fossil reef in the world.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
The oldest fossils occur at the southern end of the island, with progressively newer layers visible toward the island's north end.
Flickr/Mark
But you don't need to go searching to find them on your own...
wikipedia.org
And trust us, you won't want to miss an opportunity to see this for yourself.
Flickr/Don Shall
Head over to the Goodsell Ridge Preserves and get ready to be amazed.
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From May through October you can enjoy their museum and education center located in a recently renovated dairy barn. The site and trails are open year round.

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The informative kiosk at the Goodsell Ridge Preserve will show you where to go and what to see.
ilmpt.org
Or take a walk through time and enjoy at your own pace.
ilmpt.org
This outdoor exhibit has 80 colorful panels along a 4,600 foot trail. They take you through the 4.6 billion year history of life on Earth.
The Fisk Quarry Preserve is another stop on your adventure.
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There are still fossils in the quarry walls!
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There are picturesque wetlands to see and so much more.
ilmpt.org

The Chazy Reef may be one of the oldest places in VT, but it’s not the only fascinating thing you’ll find on the Champlain Islands. There is so much to see and do on these islands – see for yourself what they have to offer!

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