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Dinosaur National Monument - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Outdoors - Other
Monuments
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About Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is located in Moffat County, Colorado. The monument is home to a large concentration of dinosaur bones, as well as a variety of other fossils. In addition to its paleontological significance, the monument also contains a wealth of geological and natural history. There is also an educational visitor center which teaches about the geological history of the area and the dinosaurs that used to live there.
Address : 11625 E 1500 S, Jensen, UT 84035, USA

Things to Do at Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is a must-see for anyone interested in geology or paleontology. Located in Moffat County, Colorado, the monument is home to an immense deposit of fossilized bones, dating back to the Late Jurassic Period. Visitors can view the fossils up close at the Quarry Exhibit Hall, and there are also several trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. For those who want to learn more about the park’s history, there is a Museum of Western Colorado on site, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can take a ranger-led tour of the fossil beds, hike or bike through the scenic canyonlands, or float down the Green River. There are also several opportunity to view wildlife.


Top Activities Near Dinosaur National Monument

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History of Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is an American national monument located on the southeast flank of the Uinta Mountains on the border between Colorado and Utah at the confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers. Originally preserved in 1915 to protect its famous Dinosaur Quarry, the monument was greatly expanded in 1938 to include its wealth of natural history. The Fremont people lived in the area of what is now Dinosaur National Monument before the 14th century, with archaeological evidence dating from c. 200 to c. 1300. Archaeologists first studied and named the Fremont culture along the Fremont River in south-central Utah and have since traced it through much of the Green and Colorado River drainages. 


Best Time to Visit Dinosaur National Monument

The best time to visit Dinosaur National Monument is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the Monument’s many trails. The crowds also tend to be smaller during the summer months, so you’ll have a better chance of enjoying the area’s natural beauty without feeling too crowded.

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Tips for Visiting Dinosaur National Monument

  1. Schedule plenty of time: Dinosaur National Monument is huge! There's a lot to see and do, so be sure to give yourself enough time to explore.
  2. Make sure to stop at the Quarry Exhibit Hall, where you can see over 1,500 dinosaur bones on display.
  3. Take a ranger-led tour of the quarry to learn more about the dinosaurs that once roamed this area.
  4. Visit the Fossil Discovery Center to see how paleontologists prepare and study fossils.
  5. The best way to see the petroglyphs is by taking a raft tour down the Green River.
  6. Hiking is permitted in certain areas, but remember to stay on the trail and respect any closures. 
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Dinosaur National Monument

  1. The monument is home to more than 1,500 dinosaur bones, as well as petrified wood, plant fossils, and other geological features.
  2. The park contains over 800 paleontological sites and has fossils of dinosaurs including Allosaurus, Deinonychus, Abydosaurus, and various sauropods.
  3. The area around the quarry was declared a national monument on October 4, 1915.
  4. Camping is permitted in certain areas of the monument, and there are a number of developed campgrounds available for use.
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Dinosaur National Monument

While there is no shortage of things to see and do at the monument, visitors should plan on spending at least a full day exploring all that it has to offer.


How to Reach Dinosaur National Monument

The monument is easy to reach by car, and there are several ways to get there. One option is to take I-70 east from Denver. Take the exit for US-40 east, and follow it until you reach Dinosaur. Another option is to take I-80 west from Salt Lake City. Exit onto US-6 west, and follow it until you reach Dinosaur. 


Entrance Fee of Dinosaur National Monument

The entrance fee for the Dinosaur National Monument is $20 per vehicle or $10 per person. Seniors, military members, and students can get a discount on the entrance fee. Annual passes are also available for purchase.


Opening Hours of Dinosaur National Monument

The monument is open from early 9 AM to evening 5 PM. 


Attractions Near Dinosaur National Monument

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Echo ParkEcho Park is located in Moffat County, Colorado. The town is situated on the banks of the eponymous Echo Park, a large body of water that is popular for fishing and boating. Echo Park is surrounded by mountains, and the town's main street runs along the shore of the lake. The town's economy is based on tourism, and there are several hotels and restaurants in the area. Echo Park is also home to a number of art galleries and shops. The town's population is just over 1,000 people.
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Steamboat RockSteamboat Rock is a large rock formation in Moffat County, Colorado. It is located on the banks of the Colorado River and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The rock gets its name from its resemblance to a steamboat, and it is one of the largest such formations in the state. The area around Steamboat Rock is rich in geological history, and the rock itself is thought to be about 1.6 billion years old. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
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Gates of LodoreThe Gates of Lodore is a canyon located in Moffat County, Colorado. The canyon was carved by the Green River and is considered one of the most scenic and popular rafting destinations in the state. The Gates of Lodore features several rapids, including the famous Lodore Falls, which is considered one of the most challenging Rapids in the state. Rafting through the Gates of Lodore is an unforgettable experience and is sure to provide excitement for adventurers of all levels.
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Browns Park National Wildlife RefugeBrowns Park National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Moffat County, Colorado. The refuge was established in 1980 to provide habitat for wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and black-footed ferrets. The refuge also protects the historic Brown's Park Ute Indian Reservation. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including sagebrush steppe, riverine forest, and marshes. There are also numerous hiking trails and camping sites.
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Kenney ReservoirKenney Reservoir is a small, picturesque body of water located in Rio Blanco County, Colorado. The reservoir was formed by the construction of a dam on the Rio Grande River in the early twentieth century. Today, the reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and picnicking. The Kenney Reservoir State Wildlife Area surrounds the reservoir and provides opportunities for wildlife watching and hiking. Visitors to the area can also enjoy stunning views of the nearby mountains.
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Diamond PeakDiamond Peak is the highest summit in the Ruby Mountains of Colorado. The peak is located in the southwest corner of Moffat County, about 10 miles west of the town of Craig. Despite its remote location, Diamond Peak is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. The mountain is part of the Zirkel Wilderness and is surrounded by several smaller peaks, including Pilot Knob, Pear Peak, and levels Peak.

Discover More Attractions in Moffat County, Home of Dinosaur National Monument

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Moffat County
Moffat County is located in northwest Colorado. It is known for its stunning scenery, including the mountains of the Continental Divide and the vast plains of the American West. The county is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. In recent years, Moffat County has also become increasingly popular with tourists seeking to experience the unique culture and history of the American West.

Location of Dinosaur National Monument


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