It’s not too late in the season to enjoy a special hike to view the fossil beds at Allen’s Creek State Recreation Area at Monroe Lake on Saturday, Nov. 6.

Starting at 1 p.m., participants can explore fossil beds, and learn about the geological history of the reservoir area.

“The main fossil beds are located around the point of the Allen’s Creek peninsula, so hikers should be prepared for a round-trip trek of roughly 3.5 miles over moderate terrain,” said Jill Vance, the naturalist who will be leading the hike.

Located on the southwest shore of Monroe Lake, Allen’s Creek has fossil beds thick with crinoids, remnants of a shallow sea that once covered this area, and geodes are abundant. Participants are encouraged to bring cameras to capture memories of the fossil beds. Rock collecting is prohibited.

The hike is free, but registration is required. Sign up by calling the Paynetown SRA office at (812) 837-9546. The deadline to register is 10 a.m. on Nov. 6.

Hikers should dress appropriately. The hike will go forward rain or shine.

Monroe Lake is at 4850 South State Road 446, Bloomington, 47401.