Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaurs once roamed here. Their fantastic remains are still visible embedded in the rocks. Today, the mountains, desert and untamed rivers flowing in deep canyons, support an array of life. Petroglyphs hint at earlier cultures. Later, homesteaders and outlaws found refuge here. Whether your passion is science, adventure, history or scenery, Dinosaur offers much to explore.
Features
See Dinosaur Fossils
Visitors can marvel at the nearly 1,500 dinosaur fossils visible in the cliff face at the world-famous Carnegie Quarry. To explore the wilderness of the monument visitors can take a river trip through its remote canyons. The thrill and solitude will last a lifetime. Beyond the fossil quarry is over 210,000 acres of canyons, mountains and deserts to explore. Miles of trails take you through spectacular scenery.
The Quarry Exhibit Hall, located over the world-famous Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry, is open! The Quarry Exhibit Hall allows visitors to view the wall of approximately 1,500 dinosaur bones in a refurbished, comfortable space. Here, you can gaze upon the remains of numerous different species of dinosaurs including Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Camarasaurus, Diplodicus, and Stegosaurus along with several others. Exhibits, including an 80-foot long mural, reveal the story of these animals and many others that lived in the Morrison environment during the late Jurassic. There are even several places where you can touch real 149 million year old dinosaur fossils! Rangers are available to answer questions and occasionally present talks on different topics related to the quarry or dinosaurs throughout the day during the summer.
Raft Dinosaur's Rivers
Explore the monument's wilderness on a river trip through remote canyons on the Green and Yampa Rivers. The thrill and solitude will last a lifetime.
Whitewater rafting is a popular way to experience Dinosaur National Monument's remote canyons. From origins high in the Rocky Mountains, the Green and Yampa Rivers wind their way across sagebrush covered plains before entering this outstretched arm of the Unita Mountains. The mountains force the rivers into tight channels surrounded by towering cliffs. Drops and obstructions in the rivers create rapids. The thundering fury of Warm Springs, Hells Half Mile and other rapids can challenge even the most experienced boatman. Other locations such as Rippling Brook or Island Park allow you to sit on a quiet beach and escape the pressures of everyday life. Dinosaur National Monument is a legacy of rivers-from the ancient river where dinosaurs once roamed to the present day Green and Yampa Rivers.
Hike Dinosaur
Beyond the fossil quarry is over 210,000 acres of canyons, mountains and deserts to explore. Miles of trails take you through spectacular scenery. Hiking in Dinosaur is an excellent way to appreciate the park's scenery and rugged landscape. The most popular trails begin near the visitor centers and the two paved tour roads. Other trails begin at more remote locations.
Remember that you are in the desert! Bring plenty of water, a good sun hat and sunscreen. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are due back, especially if you are hiking in a remote area. Pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry. Please make arrangements for your pets before planning to hike within the monument.
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