Geology: According to the USGS, “Geophysical data and sea floor samples collected from the continental shelf and slope between Ano Nuevo Point and Point Sur, California indicate that the Monterey Bay region has had a complex late Cenozoic tectonic history”, meaning that it is difficult to easily date the fossils based on location. See the Further Reading to learn more about the geology of the Monterey Bay region.

Fossils: Fossils containing small leaves and shells are in shale a hundred yards down the trail from the west parking lot.

Further Reading/Works Cited:

Gary Greene, “Geology of the Monterey Bay region, California” (USGS 1977) https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/ofr77718