The park is known for its famous dinosaur fossils, which date back over 150 million years. The park is home to over 800 paleontological sites, including the famous Dinosaur Quarry, which contains one of the largest concentrations of dinosaur fossils in the world. Visitors can see more than 1,500 dinosaur bones exposed on a cliff face at the Quarry Exhibit Hall.
Apart from the dinosaur fossils, the park also features stunning landscapes, including mountains, canyons, and rivers. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, and rafting. There are also many scenic drives that provide visitors with spectacular views of the park.
Dinosaur National Monument is a popular destination for families, paleontologists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is open year-round, but some areas may be closed during the winter months due to weather conditions.
Dinosaur National Monument Visitor Center - Utah
The main visitor center is open year-round and provides a wide range of services and facilities to enhance visitors’ experiences. The Colorado Canyon Visitor Center is open seasonally.
The main visitor center provides visitors with information about the park’s history, geology, and natural resources. Park rangers and volunteers are available to answer questions and provide guidance on park activities, such as hiking and camping.
The Dinosaur National Monument Quarry Visitor Center has several exhibits that showcase the park’s natural and cultural history, including dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and pioneer homesteads. Both the Utah and Colorado visitor center offer guests access to restrooms and picnic areas.
Dinosaur National Monument Hikes
Quarry Exhibit Hall Trail: This is an easy 0.5-mile trail that takes visitors to the Dinosaur Quarry, where they can see more than 1,500 dinosaur bones exposed on a cliff face.
Box Canyon Trail: This is a moderate 2.5-mile hike that takes visitors through a scenic canyon with towering walls and a small waterfall.
Sound of Silence Trail: This is a moderate 3.5-mile hike that takes visitors through a quiet and secluded canyon with towering walls and a small stream.
Harpers Corner Trail: This is a strenuous 6.2-mile hike that takes visitors to the top of a plateau with panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and valleys.
Jones Hole Trail: This is a strenuous 8.3-mile hike that takes visitors through a scenic canyon with a river and several waterfalls. It is important to note that some of the trails may be closed due to weather conditions, so it is best to check with the visitor center before heading out on a hike. Additionally, visitors should be prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking.
Dinosaur National Monument Parking
Visitors should park only in designated areas and follow all posted parking regulations. Parking on vegetation, roadways, or other non-designated areas is prohibited.
Many of the popular hikes in the park have designated parking areas at the trailhead. These parking areas may fill up quickly, especially during peak visitation periods, so plan to arrive early or consider visiting during off-peak times.
The visitor center has a large parking area that can accommodate RVs and trailers, as well as cars. During peak visitation periods, the parking lot may fill up quickly, so plan accordingly.
There are designated accessible parking spaces throughout the park for visitors with disabilities.
Dinosaur National Monument Park Camping
Developed campgrounds: There are three developed campgrounds in the park – Green River Campground, Split Mountain Campground, and Echo Park Campground. These campgrounds have sites for most tents, RVs, and trailers, as well as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and water.
Backcountry camping: Visitors can also camp in the backcountry at designated campsites along the Green River and Yampa River. A permit is required for backcountry camping, and visitors should be prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles and practice responsible camping.
Group camping: The park also has group campsites available for large groups, such as scout troops or school groups. These sites require a reservation and have specific regulations.
It is important to note that camping in the park may be restricted during certain times of the year due to weather conditions or high fire danger. Additionally, visitors should be aware of wildlife in the area and practice safe food storage to avoid attracting animals to their campsites.
