Ancient history comes alive at Dinosaur National Monument. In one day, you can examine enormous stegosaurus bones preserved in a rock cliff, examine petroglyphs and pictographs made 1,000 years ago by the Fremont people, and touch fossils from creatures that lived 149 million years ago. The monument is also an adventurer's paradise — it stretches from the northeastern corner of Utah across the border, offering more than 200,000 acres of wild canyons, breathtaking rock cliffs, and fast-flowing rivers. Hike through the rock formations, take a thrilling whitewater rafting trip, or relax at one of the monument's campgrounds and enjoy the view. The area is open year-round; the cliffs are stunning any time, but they are especially so after a dusting of snow.
Dinosaur National Monument features some of the most spectacular scenery in Utah and Colorado. RV camping is the best way to stay in the heart of the wilderness without giving up a good night's sleep. If you don't have an RV, why not consider a rental? RVshare makes it easy to pick the perfect model so that you have the freedom to camp anywhere in comfort.
Dinosaur National Monument is located in a remote, isolated part of Utah and Colorado; getting to restaurants and shops requires a minimum of 20-30 minutes in the car. You won't miss them — the wilderness is an attraction all on its own, and your RV ensures that everything you need is right at hand. Whether you want to hike through the canyons or enjoy world-class stargazing after dark, the spectacular landscape has a surprise around every corner.
Hiking TrailsThe Fossil Discovery Trail is one of the most popular routes in Dinosaur National Monument. As you hike, you'll pass by tilted rock layers with exposed dinosaur bones that have been fossilized over the centuries. If possible, join one of the exceptional summer ranger-led hikes to learn about the dinosaurs and the natural history of the area. The trail is rocky and occasionally slippery, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
Quarry Vistior Center
1.2 Miles One Way
Moderate
Enjoy some of the most beautiful, easily accessible views in the region on the Desert Voices Trail. It's a relatively short loop, but it takes you through the park's signature tilted-rock layers and rich red cliffs. The route is well-maintained in most places; make sure to take plenty of water as the heat can be intense, and there's minimal shade along the trail. If you want a longer hike, look out for the sign for the Sound of Silence Trail.
Split Mountain Boat Ramp
1.5 Miles Round Trip
Moderate
Escape the crowds and enjoy a challenge on the spectacular Island Park Trail. This long, challenging route is ideal for experienced hikers; it's not maintained, so you may need to follow a map or keep an eye out for route markers. The steep climbs and wayfinding pay off in fantastic views of Island Park, Sage Creek, and the Island Park Fault.
Jones Hole Trail at Ely Creek
8-10 Miles One Way
Strenuous
SightseeingThe Quarry Exhibit Hall is one of the most exciting spots in Dinosaur National Monument. The hall itself is built around a rock cliff that contains more than 1,500 dinosaur bones. The building protects the fossils from erosion and theft and allows you to see them in comfort year-round. The hall also features educational exhibits and an enormous mural that shows the landscape as it would have looked to the dinosaurs. If you're up for a hike, look out for the trailheads for the Plug Hat Trail, the Harpers Corner Trail, and the Ruple Point Trail.
Quarry Visitor Center
Check out the fantastic scenery on Harpers Corner Drive. Stretching for 32 miles through Colorado, this road offers access to a variety of viewpoints. Make sure to stop to see the remarkable, swirling rock formations next to the Green River and the Yampa River.
Canyon Visitor Center
The Gates of Lodore is one of the most beautiful and isolated rock formations in the park. Here, red-rock cliffs rise from the Green River as it flows into Lodore Canyon. The area is a popular starting point for rafting trips; there's a campground nearby but little in the way of services. This remote, rugged destination requires a long, bumpy drive, but it's a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of the landscape in peace.
County Road 34, Maybell, CO 81640
Museums Nearby Shops and RestaurantsPick up a one-of-a-kind gift or decoration at Country Bear, a sweet shop with a lovingly curated selection. You'll also find locally made arts and crafts, bath products, and fairy gardens.
61 E. Main St., Vernal, UT 84078
If you're in the market for an edgy, moto-style piece of clothing, visit The Edge Custom Shop. Specializing in T-shirts and jeans, this spot carries comfortable clothing for women and men.
1820 US-40, Vernal, UT 84078
Blush Clothing offers stylish yet casual women's clothing. Choose everything from cheeky graphic-print T-shirts to brightly colored sweaters and perfectly distressed jeans.
85 W. Main St., Vernal, UT 84078
Relaxed and casual, the Highway Bar & Grill is the perfect spot to stop for a burger and a cold beer. Make sure to try the green chile topping on your burger, and try to grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables.
211 Brontosaurus Blvd., Dinosaur, CO 81610
Canton City Restaurant offers all of your favorite Chinese dishes, including fried rice, egg rolls, and sizzling plates. Popular with kids and families, this restaurant offers a large, varied menu that has something for everyone.
1175 US-40, Vernal, UT 84078
As you're driving to or from Dinosaur National Monument, stop at Plaza Mexicana for a delicious Mexican feast. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, you'll find them here.
55 E. Main St., Vernal, UT 84078
Most visitors to Dinosaur National Monument start their trip at the Quarry Visitor Center in Jensen, Utah. To get there, take US Highway 40 from Utah or Colorado. When you reach Jensen, turn north on UT-149; it takes you right to the parking area. If you want to reach the Canyon Visitor Center in Colorado, take Highway 40 to Dinosaur, Colorado. The center is located about 2 miles east of town on the north side of the highway.
11625 E. 1500 S., Jensen, UT 84035
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Vehicle) $25.0
Entry fee is $25 per vehicle with 1 to 14 people.
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Motorcycle) $10.0
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person 16 years and older) $15.0
Entry fee is $15 per one individual walk-in or on a bicycle.
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person 15 years and younger)
There is no entry fee for individuals 15 years old and younger who walk-in or bike.
With its remarkable fossils and stunning scenery, Dinosaur National Monument is a memorable destination for travelers of all stripes. Whether you prefer to take in the landscape from the visitor center or you're up for a backcountry hike or rafting trip, the monument's remarkable tilted cliffs add an element of adventure to any visit. An RV is one of the best ways to enjoy the area — wake up to the sunrise over the red rocks, and spend your evenings surrounded by glittering stars and the silence of the wilderness.
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