Dinosaur National Monument

  • Jurassic Park (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Fossils in the Ground (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • The US Flag Flies under Open Skies (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Split Mountain with the Green River (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • A Fremont Mystery (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Box Canyon (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Split Mountain (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Green River Overlook (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • A Morning View of Split Mountain
  • A Long Look to the Horizon (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • The Road Down to Echo Park and the Green River (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • The Canyons of Dinosaur National Monument
  • Overlooking the Canyons and Valley in the Distance (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • Trees and Sagebrush (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • The Canyons of Dinosaur National Monument
  • The Green River and Wide Open Skies (Dinosaur National Monument)
  • The Green River and Canyons of Dinosaur National Monument

Pictures courtesy of the – Mark Stevens: Dinosaur National Monument.

Dinosaur National Monument, spanning the rugged landscapes of Colorado and Utah, is a treasure trove of natural history and ancient wonders. Famous for its rich deposits of dinosaur fossils and breathtaking canyons carved by the Green and Yampa Rivers, the monument offers an unparalleled blend of paleontology and outdoor adventure. Visitors can marvel at exposed dinosaur bones, explore petroglyphs left by ancient cultures, and enjoy the area’s scenic beauty through hiking, rafting, and camping. This remarkable site invites discovery and appreciation for the forces of nature and the stories of Earth’s past.

Website:

Dinosaur National Monument
   

Map:

Park Map

Visitor Centers:

Quarry Visitor Center: Located near Jensen, Utah, this primary visitor center serves as the gateway to the Quarry Exhibit Hall. Guests can learn about the monument’s geology, paleontology, and cultural history through exhibits and ranger programs.

Canyon Visitor Center: Situated near Dinosaur, Colorado, this center provides essential park information, trail maps, and exhibits about the area’s ecology and geology, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Colorado side of the monument.

How to get There:

From Vernal, Utah: Take US-40 East for approximately 15 miles to Jensen, Utah, then turn north onto UT-149. Follow signs to the Quarry Visitor Center, which is the main access point for the Utah side of the monument.

From Dinosaur, Colorado: Take CO-64 West, then turn south onto Harpers Corner Road to reach the Canyon Visitor Center. This route is ideal for accessing the scenic drives and trails on the Colorado side.

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is a unique destination where science, history, and outdoor adventure converge. Established in 1915 to preserve a significant deposit of dinosaur fossils, the monument has since expanded to protect over 210,000 acres of stunning canyons, rivers, and archaeological sites. At the Quarry Exhibit Hall, visitors can view hundreds of dinosaur bones still embedded in the rock, providing a rare glimpse into the Late Jurassic period. Beyond its paleontological significance, the monument features petroglyphs and pictographs that tell the story of the Fremont people who once inhabited the region.

The monument’s diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. The Green and Yampa Rivers provide world-class rafting opportunities, winding through steep-walled canyons and offering unparalleled views of the rugged terrain. Popular trails like the Harpers Corner Trail and Sound of Silence Trail allow hikers to explore the monument’s geological features and observe its rich biodiversity. For those interested in camping, several campgrounds offer serene settings to enjoy the monument’s dark skies and vibrant sunsets.

Dinosaur National Monument holds immense scientific and cultural value. Its fossilized remains provide insights into prehistoric ecosystems, while its archaeological sites preserve the heritage of early Native American cultures. The monument’s dramatic landscapes and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for families, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It stands as a testament to Earth’s dynamic history and the enduring connection between people and the natural world.

Points of Interest:

Quarry Exhibit HallQuarry Exhibit Hall: The centerpiece of the monument, this hall features a “wall of bones” showcasing over 1,500 dinosaur fossils still embedded in the rock. Visitors can learn about the excavation process and the dinosaurs that roamed the area during the Jurassic period.
Harpers Corner

Harpers Corner: This scenic overlook on the Colorado side offers breathtaking views of the Green and Yampa River canyons. The nearby Harpers Corner Trail provides a short but rewarding hike with panoramic vistas of the monument’s rugged terrain.
Echo Park

Echo Park: Nestled at the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers, this remote area is a haven for camping, rafting, and wildlife watching. Surrounded by towering canyon walls, Echo Park is an ideal spot to immerse yourself in the monument’s natural beauty.
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