Stunning Colorado Park Has Fossils, Rivers, and Zero Crowds

One of the richest fossil beds found anywhere on Earth is just up the road from Grand Junction at the Dinosaur National Monument. This 80-acre monument was proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson in 1915 and expanded into a 329 square-mile space in both Utah and Colorado in 1938.

Both Northwestern Colorado and Northeastern Utah contain portions of the Morrison Formation. It's also found in 9 other states. This rock unit stretches across parts of Colorado, containing thousands of fossils that date back over 145 million years.

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Colorado's Giant Dinosaur Quarry

Read More: Colorado May Still Be Home to Dinosaurs, or So They Say

Quarry Exhibit Hall at DNM is home to more than 1500 dinosaur fossils embedded into sandstone, often called the 'Wall of Bones.' The wall features the remains of dinosaurs like Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Stegosaurus. The monument is built on one of the largest Jurassic fossil beds anywhere on Earth, easily making this the largest fossil bed anywhere in Colorado.

Activities & Trails at Dinosaur National Monument

A visit to Dinosaur National Monument is also a chance to enjoy camping, kayaking, rafting, and hiking through the many canyons near the Green and Yampa Rivers. Both rivers require skill to run and include challenging Class III and Class IV rapids.

Hiking Trails on the Utah side of the monument include:

• Fossil Discovery Trail (0.75 mi loop): Interpretive trail to unmarked fossil sites.
• Riverside Trail (2 mi): Scenic views of the Green River

Hiking Trails on the Colorado side of the monument include:

• Confluence Trail (1.25 mi): Scenic views of the Green and Yampa Rivers
• Harpers Corner Trail (2 mi): Hike a ridge to an incredible overlook. The Green River flows through Whirlpool Canyon 2,500 feet below.

Read More: You Can Stay in a Colorado Hotel Full of Dinosaur Bones

When To Visit Dinosaur National Monument

Visiting Dinosaur National Monument in April or May, or September/October, are two of the best opportunities all year to make the trip. Outdoor temps are comfortable in the spring and fall, and crowds are not at peak volume.

Camping is available on the Utah side of the monument, along with hotels and restaurants in Vernal, Utah. The Dinosaur Inn & Suites is a popular spot if you have kids.