
Dinosaur Ridge Colorado
Explore North America's #1 dinosaur track site, featuring hundreds of ancient footprints and fossilized bones.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday sun & crowds

Dinosaur Ridge Colorado
Best Time
Avoid midday sun & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore North America's #1 dinosaur track site, featuring hundreds of ancient footprints and fossilized bones.
"Everyone should have this experience; it deeply touched the child in me!"

☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. There's not much shade on the trails .
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The main trail is paved, but good shoes are essential for exploring the ridge .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Trackways
Main trail
Walk among hundreds of ancient dinosaur footprints, a truly awe-inspiring experience for all ages.

Fossilized Dinosaur Bones
Along the trail and visitor center
See real dinosaur bones embedded in the rock, offering a tangible connection to prehistoric giants.

Visitor Center Exhibits
Base of the ridge
Explore interactive displays and learn about the geology and paleontology of Dinosaur Ridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Free Exploration, Paid Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. There's not much shade on the trails.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The main trail is paved, but good shoes are essential for exploring the ridge.
🚌 Consider the Bus Tour
A guided tour offers great insights and is easier on little legs or in hot weather.
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture incredible prehistoric sights, but be mindful of heat affecting electronics.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. There's not much shade on the trails.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The main trail is paved, but good shoes are essential for exploring the ridge.
🚌 Consider the Bus Tour
A guided tour offers great insights and is easier on little legs or in hot weather.
📸 Camera Ready!
Capture incredible prehistoric sights, but be mindful of heat affecting electronics.
💰 Free to Walk the Trail
Enjoy the main dinosaur trackway and fossil sites for free!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Dinosaur Ridge for its incredible dinosaur tracks and fossils, calling it a must-see for all ages. The free access to the main trail is a huge plus, though many recommend the guided bus tour for a deeper understanding. Some note the lack of shade and potential for heat, advising preparedness.
"We did the guided bus tour, which I definitely recommend- I am not opposed to hiking, but my kids were tired of hot walks! Also, good info learned- a bonus for homeschooling!"
Big Boneded
"Went here on a Friday when they opened at 9a. It was very fun. We walked the whole thing and even did the lookout path (which is worth it). Kids had a ton of fun seeing the fossils. It is free if you walk it. The walk is around 2.5 miles to and from the gift shop. Would definitely recommend doing this. There isn’t much shade so bring a hat. Kids loved seeing all the sights and learning about the fossils and how they got there."
Drew Steadman
"August 2021 went to Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison Colorado
Visited August 11, 2024 The site of numerous dinosaur tracks and fossils from the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods!"
Dani MCDonald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dinosaur Ridge is located just west of Denver, near Morrison, Colorado, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Denver along I-70. It's easily accessible by car with ample parking. You can also reach it via Lyft or Uber.
Dinosaur Ridge is situated just outside of Denver, specifically near Morrison, Colorado. It's often associated with the Denver area due to its proximity.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Dinosaur Ridge. The site is well-marked off I-70. Public transport options are limited, but ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are viable alternatives.
Yes, Dinosaur Ridge is located near Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, making it a great addition to a day of exploring the area.
Dinosaur Ridge is a short drive from Golden, Colorado, making it an easy excursion for those staying in or visiting the Golden area [^seo_keywords].
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking the main dinosaur trackway and viewing the fossils along the trail is free. There is a cost for guided bus tours and special programs offered at the visitor center [^seo_keywords].
The outdoor trackways and trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. The visitor center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information [^seo_keywords].
For self-guided exploration of the trails, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to take a guided bus tour, it's advisable to check availability and potentially book in advance, especially during peak season.
The outdoor trails are generally accessible year-round, weather permitting. The visitor center and its exhibits will have specific operating hours. Snow can impact trail access in winter.
General admission to walk the trails and see the dinosaur tracks and fossils is free. Paid options include guided bus tours, which provide in-depth information from knowledgeable guides.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk or take a guided bus tour along the 2-mile paved trail to see over 250 fossilized dinosaur footprints and bones from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The visitor center also offers exhibits and a gift shop.
A self-guided walk along the main trail can take about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how much you stop to observe. Guided bus tours typically last around 1 hour.
The main trackway trail is paved and relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors, including families with strollers. There are also optional lookout paths that are more strenuous.
Yes, Dinosaur Ridge is renowned for having one of the world's largest continuous sets of dinosaur tracks, with over 250 fossilized footprints visible along the trail.
Fossils found at Dinosaur Ridge represent dinosaurs from the late Jurassic and early Cretaceous periods, including species like Stegosaurus and Allosaurus. Recent findings also suggest behavioral similarities to modern birds.
📸 📸 Photography
The dinosaur trackways themselves offer incredible photo opportunities. The panoramic views from the ridge, especially from the lookout paths, are also stunning.
Yes, photography is encouraged at Dinosaur Ridge. However, be mindful of the weather conditions, as extreme heat can affect electronic devices like phone cameras.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment. Professional or commercial photography may require permits.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for photographs, while also helping you avoid the harshest midday sun.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the sights. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it can offer more flexibility, especially for capturing details of the fossils and wider landscape shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the guided bus tour if your children might tire easily or if you want a more structured, educational experience. It's a great way to keep them entertained and learning. Remember to pack plenty of water and sun protection, as the trails are quite exposed.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the guided bus tours have a fee, they offer significant value for the information provided. If your budget is very tight, the self-guided walk still provides an incredible and educational experience. Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs.
🤓 Science & History Enthusiasts
The guided bus tours are particularly valuable, led by knowledgeable guides who can delve into the scientific significance of the discoveries. The visitor center's exhibits further enhance the learning experience, making it a rich destination for in-depth exploration and discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Paleontological Significance of Dinosaur Ridge
Recent scientific discoveries at Dinosaur Ridge have even shed light on dinosaur behavior, revealing similarities to modern-day birds. The layers of ancient rock and embedded fossils tell a compelling story of a world vastly different from today, offering a unique window into Earth's ancient past. The site is not just a tourist attraction but a living laboratory for paleontological research and education.
Many significant fossil discoveries have been made here, contributing to our broader understanding of dinosaur evolution and ecosystems. The accessibility of these fossils and tracks allows visitors to connect directly with scientific history, making it a truly special place for anyone interested in dinosaurs and natural history.
Exploring Dinosaur Ridge: Trails and Tours
For a more immersive and informative experience, the guided bus tour is highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors along the trackway, pointing out significant fossils, explaining geological formations, and sharing fascinating facts about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area. This option is particularly beneficial for families with young children or those who prefer not to hike the entire distance in the sun.
Beyond the main trail, there are also lookout paths that offer more challenging hikes and rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you choose to explore independently or with a guide, Dinosaur Ridge provides an engaging and educational adventure into the prehistoric world.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit