Dinosaur National Monument | Colorado National Lands

Dinosaur National Monument is home to numerous dinosaur fossil beds. It’s situated on over 210,000 acres of land spread across two states.

Dinosaurs once ruled this land and fossil evidence can be found on the Utah side. Today the area of mountains, desert and rivers supports a vast array of life.

The Quarry Exhibit Hall is situated over the world-famous Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry near Vernal, UT. It’s open year round and features approximately 1500 dinosaur bones.

The Colorado side of the monument does not feature any dinosaur exhibits, just breathtaking scenery.

Activities

Biking: Permitted on any road within the monument, but not on any trails.

Camping: 6 campgrounds, 133 sites. Many sites are open year round. There are a variety of campgrounds from RVs to tent-only. The most popular and largest camping area is Green River near Utah Visitor Center. Back country camping is also available.

Fishing: Permitted with CO Fishing License. Both the Green River and Yampa River pass through the park.

Hiking: Most trails begin along the two paved roads inside the park and the visitor centers. Other more remote trails exist. Remember to bring water and wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

At the end of the 31 mile Harpers Corner Scenic Drive there is a short hike to Harpers Corner Overlook. It gazes out on the connection of the Green and Yampa rivers.

Horseback Riding: Horses, mules, burros and llamas re permitted on all dirt roads open to vehicle traffic, not including Cub Creek Road to the Josie Basset Cabin.

Scenic Drives: The Tour of the Tilted Rocks is a 10 mile, one-way trip along Cub Creek Road, beginning at the Quarry Visitor Center, north of Jensen, UT.

Dinosaur’s other paved road, Harpers Corner Road takes you 31 miles one-way from the Canyon Area Visitor Center.

Whitewater Rafting: The Green River offers challenging Class III and IV rapids. The Yampa River has several exciting Class III rapids and one Class IV known as the Warm Springs Rapid.

Many commercial outfits offer tours through DNM. Private boating permits available.

Tips When Visiting

Many of the dirt roads become impassable in the rain.
Fill up your gas tank before visiting.
It can take over 4 hours to drive from the Gates of Lodore area on the north end of the monument in Colorado to the Quarry Visitor Center in Utah. Nearest amenities could be over an hours drive.
Bring food and water.

Fossil Bone Quarry Visitor Center.