Dinosaur National Monument
In 1909, paleontologist Earl Douglass uncovered a rich formation of prehistoric plant and animal fossils while searching for specimens for the Carnegie Museum. This discovery led to the establishment of a quarry, and in 1915, Dinosaur National Monument was created to protect 80 acres of the site. Today, the monument spans 210,844 acres.
Dinosaur National Monument is a captivating destination for anyone interested in history, geology, paleontology, and outdoor activities. With its fossil beds, remote canyons, whitewater rafting, and rich cultural heritage, there’s so much to explore. It’s well worth a visit!
Where Is It?
Spanning both Colorado and Utah, the monument offers distinct experiences in each state.
The Colorado side provides access to deep canyons along the Green and Yampa Rivers, with scenic views along Harpers Corner Road. While dinosaur fossils aren’t visible here, there are plenty of hikes and viewpoints, with information about these activities available at the Canyon Visitor Center, located two miles east of Dinosaur, CO and open from late spring to early fall.
The Utah side is home to the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall, where over 1,500 fossils remain embedded in the protected cliff face.
How to Get There?
From Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 and then take US-40 east. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours.
To reach the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall, turn left on UT-149 in Jensen. Follow UT-149 for 6.6 miles to the Quarry Entrance Road.
From the quarry, drive east on US-40 for about 30 minutes to Dinosaur. The Canyon Visitor Center (closed in winter) is two miles farther east on US-40. To reach Steamboat Rock in Echo Park, continue on Harpers Corner Road for 31 miles. The road ends at a parking area, where one can hike half a mile to Steamboat Rock for gorgeous views of the Green and Yampa rivers’ confluence.
How to Experience Dinosaur National Monument
For One Day
In one day, you can explore both the Utah and Colorado sides of Dinosaur National Monument.
Begin by driving 10 minutes from US-40 to explore the most popular stop in the monument: the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall, a self-discovery museum, on the Utah side, where you can see over 1,500 dinosaur fossils still embedded in the cliff face, as well as lovely views of the surrounding terrain. Here you can delve into the area’s rich geology and paleontology, which narrate the Earth’s evolution over millions of years. Plan to spend around 1-2 hours there.
Next, drive 30 minutes to visit the Canyon Visitor Center on the Colorado side, where you can spend around 10 minutes picking up maps, learning about the park’s diverse ecosystems, and getting recommendations for nearby trails and activities.
End your day with a visit to Echo Park, an hour and a half drive away, where you’ll find Steamboat Rock. Plan to explore for at least 3 hours.
Hike to Steamboat Rock for stunning views of the confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers, surrounded by the canyon’s geologic wonders. Watch rafters float by, discover Fremont petroglyphs, and learn about the area’s homesteading and ranching history. Perhaps enjoy a picnic, and as night falls, stargaze in this internationally recognized Dark Sky Place.
For Multiple Days
Rafting
If you find yourself with three days or more to explore the monument, multi-day rafting is the ultimate way to experience Dinosaur National Monument. These adventures take you through amazing whitewater, with camping in remote canyons. As part of these trips, river guides can take guests to the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall on the final day, with museum tickets included in the cost.
The Yampa River and the Green River’s Gates of Lodore offer the most sought after multi-day rafting experiences in the U.S.. The Yampa, known for its Class III-IV rapids, is Colorado’s last free-flowing tributary, providing a unique opportunity to experience the river’s natural course. The Gates of Lodore offers breathtaking canyon views, sandy beaches for camping, and Class II-III rapids.
Read on for everything you need to know about rafting in Dinosaur National Monument.
Our Adventures in Dinosaur National Monument
Green River
A magnificent towering canyon marks the start of the trip at the “Gates of Lodore” and follows one of the most beautiful stretches of river anywhere. Fed by dam-controlled flows from Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Dinosaur National Monument
The last of the wild ones! The Yampa is the last free-flowing river in the entire Colorado River system. With 4 or 5 day trips, you will be immersed in one of the most stunning river corridors in the U.S.
Other Activities
Explore Dinosaur National Monument on foot or by bike, or take a scenic drive along Harpers Corner Road for sweeping views of the surrounding rivers and canyon landscapes. Hike to discover ancient petroglyphs and pictographs etched by early Indigenous peoples. Continue reading for more things to do in Dinosaur National Monument.
Additional activities include:
Trip Planning
Dinosaur National Monument is open year-round, though certain roads and facilities may be inaccessible during winter months due to snow. Visiting from May to September, when summer is in full swing, is especially enjoyable, since the scenery is beautiful, and the river keeps cool.
As of 2024, Standard Entrance Passes range from $15 to $25 and are valid for seven consecutive days. If you’re entering the park in a motorized vehicle, the pass covers both you and your passengers, so no additional passes are needed. However, it does not include camping or other fees, such as river permit fees.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, please visit the official Dinosaur National Monument Parks Service Page, where the prices are regularly updated. For frequent visitors, there’s an option for an annual pass.
The nearest town to Dinosaur National Monument is Dinosaur, located just two miles from the Canyon Visitor Center. Vernal, Utah, located 17 miles from the park, is the nearest larger town and a great option for those seeking more hotel and restaurant choices.
Cell service is limited in many areas of the monument. Be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.
FAQs about Dinosaur National Monument
How much does it cost to enter Dinosaur National Monument?
Standard Entrance Passes cost $15–$25 as of 2024. A pass covers both the driver and passengers in a motorized vehicle. For the latest pricing, visit the official Dinosaur National Monument Parks Service Page. An annual pass is also available.
How old are the petroglyphs on Dinosaur National Monument?
The petroglyphs found in the monument are over 1,000 years old, created by early Indigenous peoples who lived in the region.
Is it worth going to Dinosaur National Monument?
Absolutely! Dinosaur National Monument is a fascinating destination for those interested in history, geology, paleontology, and outdoor activities. With its fossil beds, scenic canyons, whitewater rafting, and rich cultural heritage, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Are there rattlesnakes in Dinosaur National Monument?
Yes, rattlesnakes are found in Dinosaur National Monument, particularly in warmer months. Visitors should be cautious while hiking and keep an eye out for wildlife.
What city is closest to Dinosaur National Monument?
The closest town to Dinosaur National Monument is Dinosaur, Colorado, located about 2 miles from the Canyon Area Visitor Center.
Can you swim at Dinosaur National Monument?
Swimming is not recommended in the Yampa and Green Rivers due to strong currents and the rugged nature of the water. However, visitors can enjoy many other activities like rafting, hiking, and sightseeing.
Are there caves in Dinosaur National Monument?
There are no developed caves in Dinosaur National Monument. However, the park features impressive rock formations and fossil beds, including a famous quarry where dinosaur fossils are visible in the rocks.
What is the Echo Park Dam controversy?
The Echo Park Dam controversy involved a proposed dam in the 1950s that would have flooded part of Dinosaur National Monument. After public outcry and the efforts of conservationists, the project was halted, and the area was protected as a national monument.
Who found Sue the T-rex?
Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever discovered, was found in 1990 by paleontologist Susan Hendrickson in South Dakota, not in Dinosaur National Monument. However, her discovery remains one of the most significant paleontological finds.
Are the roads in Dinosaur National Monument paved?
Some roads in the park are paved, including the main roads around the Canyon Visitor Center. However, many of the scenic and backcountry roads are gravel or dirt, especially around the more remote areas of the monument.
Is there cell service in Dinosaur National Monument?
Cell service is limited in Dinosaur National Monument, especially in the more remote parts of the park. Visitors should be prepared to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.
How long does it take to do Dinosaur National Monument?
Depending on what you want to do, a visit to Dinosaur National Monument can take anywhere from a half-day to several days. If you plan on hiking, rafting, or exploring the fossil beds, it’s recommended to spend at least one full day.
What makes Dinosaur National Monument special?
Dinosaur National Monument is special because it preserves a treasure trove of prehistoric fossils, including dinosaur remains, in a spectacular landscape of canyons, rivers, and red rock cliffs. The monument offers a rare combination of paleontology, outdoor adventure, and history. It’s one of the best windows into the Jurassic Period.
Are there bears in Dinosaur National Monument?
Yes, bears (primarily black bears) inhabit Dinosaur National Monument. While sightings are rare, visitors should take precautions such as storing food properly to avoid encounters.
Why are there so many fossils at Dinosaur National Monument?
The area surrounding Dinosaur National Monument was once a river floodplain where dinosaurs roamed millions of years ago. Over time, their remains became preserved in the sediment, eventually becoming fossilized. The monument protects one of the richest fossil beds from the late Jurassic Period.
