Explore detailed info of Dinosaur National Monument , or check out our expanded coverage of the Dinosaur National Monument area, including Dinosaur National Monument lodging, recreational activities, and more.
Contact Info
Dinosaur, CO 81610-9724
- Phone:
- 970-374-3000
- Phone:
- 435-781-7700
Basics
- Location:
- 20 miles north of Vernal
- Type:
- National Park
Description
As you explore the craggy hills, discover fragments of a long ago world where the largest land creatures of all time once roamed and died. While the main exhibit wall of dinosaur fossils is closed, some fossils can be seen by hiking 1/2 mile from the Temporary Visitor Center. You can also view rock art and captivating scenery, explore homestead sites, and go whitewater rafting.
Hours + Fees
Hours:
The Dinosaur Quarry Visitor Center is closed indefinitely due to significant life, health, and safety issues.
A temporary Visitor Center operates from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily
Labor Day through Memorial Day Weekend, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily
During the summer, ranger-led programs are scheduled throughout the day at the Temporary Visitor Center.
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
Canyon Area Visitor Center is open from March 1 through Memorial Day Weekend, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday; closed Monday/Tuesday
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily
Labor Day through October 28
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday; closed Monday/Tuesday
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Directions to Temporary Visitor Center
From Denver
The most direct route is to travel west on Interstate 70 to Rifle, Colorado. Take the exit for Highway 13, and follow 13 north toward Meeker. About 40 miles past Rifle, take a left on Highway 64 west toward Rangely. Follow 64 west to Dinosaur, Colorado (about 78 miles). In Dinosaur, turn west (left) on Highway 40 to Jensen, Utah. Turn north (right) on Utah 149 and follow the signs for the Visitor Center. Driving time from Denver is about 5 1/2 hours.
From Salt Lake City
Take I-80 east out of the city. Follow I-80 for approximately 25 miles, and then take the exit for Highway 40 east toward Vernal. Follow 40 east to Vernal (about 160 miles). Go through Vernal and follow Highway 40 to Jensen, Utah (10 miles east of Vernal). Turn north (left) on Utah 149 and follow the signs for the Visitor Center. Driving time from Salt Lake City is about 4 hours.
Directions to Canyon Area Visitor Center
From Denver
There are several options depending on your available time. The most direct route is to travel west on Interstate 70 to Rifle, Colorado. Take the exit for Highway 13, and follow 13 north toward Meeker. About 40 miles past Rifle, take a left on Highway 64 west toward Rangely. Follow 64 west to Dinosaur, Colorado (about 78 miles). In Dinosaur, turn east (right) on Highway 40, travel 2 miles to Harpers Corner Road. Turn north (left) on Harpers Corner Road and make the first right into the parking lot. Driving time from Denver is about 5 hours.
From Salt Lake City
Take I-80 east out of the city. Follow I-80 for approximately 25 miles, and then take the exit for Highway 40 east toward Vernal. Follow 40 east to Vernal (about 160 miles). Go through Vernal and follow 40 east to Dinosaur, Colorado (about 40 miles past Vernal). The Canyon Area Visitor Center is located 2 miles east of Dinosaur, Colorado at the intersection of Harpers Corner Road. Driving time from Salt Lake City is about 4 1/2 hours.
