Best Things to Do at Dinosaur National Monument (Utah)

When you stand before the massive wall of fossils at Dinosaur National Monument‘s Quarry Exhibit Hall, you’ll see why this site has captivated visitors since its discovery in 1909. You can witness over 1,500 dinosaur bones still embedded in the rock, including specimens from Allosaurus, Diplodocus, and Stegosaurus. But the impressive fossil display is just the beginning of what this unique monument offers. From ancient petroglyphs to thrilling river rapids, you’ll find eight distinct ways to explore this prehistoric wonderland.

Explore the Quarry Exhibit Hall’s Fossil Wall

Where can you find one of the world’s most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils? At Dinosaur National Monument‘s Quarry Exhibit Hall, you’ll discover a massive wall containing about 1,500 real dinosaur bones from the Late Jurassic period, roughly 150 million years ago.

The climate-controlled hall lets you get up close to perfectly preserved remains of Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Camarasaurus, Diplodocus, and Stegosaurus. You can even touch actual dinosaur fossils at designated spots along the wall. These fossils were preserved when ancient stream deposits buried the bones in layers of sand and gravel.

While you explore, an 80-foot mural brings the ancient Morrison environment to life, and informative displays explain how these creatures lived and died. Rangers are on hand to answer questions and offer talks about the quarry’s discoveries.

It’s a rare chance to see a real dinosaur bone bed exactly where it was found.

Hike the Fossil Discovery Trail

For an outdoor adventure that combines hiking and fossil hunting, take the 1.2-mile Fossil Discovery Trail connecting the Visitor Center to the Quarry Exhibit Hall.

You’ll climb about 200 feet in elevation while exploring exposed rock layers containing real dinosaur fossils from up to 10 different species.

The moderate trail is best hiked downhill from the quarry to the visitor center. While you won’t see as many fossils as in the Quarry Exhibit Hall, you’ll enjoy scenic canyon views and might spot prairie dogs along the way. You’ll pass a fascinating petroglyph boulder site along the route.

The interpretive trail offers unique insights into millions of years of geological history. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

You can make it a 2.5-mile round trip or drive back to your starting point.

View Ancient Rock Art and Petroglyphs

Ancient storytellers left their mark across Dinosaur National Monument through fascinating rock art and petroglyphs that are around 1,000 years old.

Ancient artisans carved their stories into stone at Dinosaur National Monument, leaving behind thousand-year-old petroglyphs for modern eyes to discover.

You’ll find these remarkable carvings at several key sites throughout the park, including Swelter Shelter, McKee Springs, and Echo Park.

Start at the Quarry Visitor Center and drive along Cub Creek Road to access three main rock art sites.

Don’t miss the Lizard Panel with its unique flute player design and the Swelter Shelter’s depictions of snakes, birds, and lizards.

The Fremont-style petroglyphs at McKee Springs are particularly impressive, featuring distinctive bighorn sheep figures. The park contains an estimated 25,000 rock art images scattered across its vast landscape.

While some sites are easily accessible by car, others require short hikes on rocky terrain.

Remember to check road conditions before visiting remote locations like McKee Springs.

Take a Rafting Adventure on Green River

While the monument’s ancient rock art tells stories from the past, the rushing waters of the Green River create unforgettable adventures in the present.

You’ll find thrilling Class III and IV rapids between the Gates of Lodore and Split Mountain, with daily nine-mile trips and multi-day excursions available.

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate rafter, experienced guides from outfitters like Adrift Dinosaur and OARS will guarantee your safety while maneuvering through challenging sections.

As you paddle through Split Mountain Gorge, you’ll be surrounded by towering 2,000-foot cliffs and spectacular geological formations. These waters wind through some of the most breathtaking outlaw caves and petroglyphs along the route.

The river offers both single-day trips through Split Mountain and longer four-day journeys on the Green River.

You can even try specialty experiences like Stand Up Paddle Board trips for a unique perspective on this pristine wilderness.

Camp Under the Stars

Whether you’re seeking solitude or family adventure, camping at Dinosaur National Monument offers an unforgettable way to experience the park’s natural wonders.

With six front country campgrounds and one backcountry option, you’ll find the perfect spot to set up camp among cottonwoods, sagebrush, and stunning river views. The lesser-known Deer Lodge campground provides 22 peaceful sites away from the crowds.

• Choose from popular spots like Green River Campground for riverside camping or Split Mountain for easy access to main attractions
• Pack essential gear for hot summer temperatures that often exceed 100°F, including plenty of water and sun protection
• Store food properly due to black bears in the area, and follow Leave No Trace principles
• Book ahead online for reservable sites, or try your luck with first-come, first-served spots (limited to 8 people and 2 vehicles per site)

Join a Ranger-Led Program

To fully experience Dinosaur National Monument’s wonders, don’t miss the ranger-led programs that bring the park’s natural and cultural heritage to life.

You’ll find a variety of activities, from guided hikes to fossil discovery tours, all available on a first-come, first-served basis at the visitor centers.

Join a ranger talk at the Quarry Exhibit Hall to learn about fossilization and ancient ecosystems, or trek to fascinating fossil sites near the Utah entrance. These informative talks showcase an impressive collection of over 1,500 fossilized bones from various dinosaur species.

You can even touch real dinosaur fossils during these interactive tours. If you’re traveling with kids, sign them up for the free Junior Ranger or Junior Paleontology programs, where they’ll earn special dinosaur-themed badges.

Don’t forget to check out the petroglyph tours, where you’ll discover ancient Fremont rock art while learning about the area’s cultural significance.

Trek the Sound of Silence Trail

The Sound of Silence Trail offers one of the most engaging geological hikes in Dinosaur National Monument, stretching 3.2 miles through a dramatic landscape of upturned rock layers and desert badlands.

Located just 2 miles east of the Quarry Visitor Center, this moderate to difficult loop trail takes you through nearly two dozen sedimentary rock layers spanning multiple geological periods. Most hikers opt to take the trail in a clockwise direction at the loop junction for optimal views.

• You’ll traverse steep slickrock and rugged ridgelines while enjoying panoramic views of Split Mountain.
• The trail takes 1.5 to 3 hours to complete, with some challenging sections requiring rock scrambling.
• Pick up a trail guide at the Visitor Center to identify the fascinating rock formations you’ll encounter.
• Plan your hike during spring, fall, or winter to avoid summer’s extreme heat, and bring plenty of water.

Discover Prehistoric History at the Visitor Center

After exploring the geological wonders of the Sound of Silence Trail, make your way to one of Dinosaur National Monument‘s two visitor centers for an immersive prehistoric experience.

You’ll find the Quarry Visitor Center in Jensen, Utah, and the Canyon Visitor Center in Dinosaur, Colorado. Both locations offer essential information about the monument’s history, geology, and wildlife.

Don’t miss the spectacular Quarry Exhibit Hall, where you can examine roughly 1,500 dinosaur bones preserved in their original location. You’ll see fossils from iconic species like Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Stegosaurus, including rare specimens such as baby Stegosaurus remains. At the Quarry Exhibit Hall, visitors can experience the unique opportunity to touch actual dinosaur bones.

The Quarry Visitor Center operates daily, with extended summer hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and winter hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Knowledgeable rangers are always available to answer your questions and enhance your visit.

Recap

Pack your prehistoric plans and prepare for pure wonder at Dinosaur National Monument. You’ll discover dramatic dinosaur fossils, traverse terrific trails, and experience exhilarating river rapids. Whether you’re camping under crystal-clear skies, learning from local rangers, or marveling at ancient art, you won’t regret exploring this remarkable Utah treasure. From family fun to solo adventures, this destination delivers an unforgettable journey through time that you can’t miss.