5 Things to Know About the Totally Cool Dinosaur National Monument

Friday, September 14, 2018

The monument is home to countless fossils, drawing 300,000 visitors in 2016 alone. Photo: mark byzewski, flickr.

Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend excursion, here are five things you should know about the totally cool Dinosaur National Monument.

Dinosaur National Monument is a really cool place to visit, located on the border of Colorado and Utah, which means parts of the monument are in both states. But, which side is better? Well, that might be open for debate.

If you want to see dinosaur fossils, you'll have to go to the Utah side, but both sides offer great views and plenty of recreational opportunities.

Dinosaur National Monument is practically in our backyard, so if you have never visited, it's probably time to do so. Here are five important things to know before you visit Dinosaur National Monument.

1 - Entrance Fee

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For a private, non-commercial vehicle the entrance fee to Dinosaur National Monument is $25 and for a motorcycle, it's $20. If you don't have a car and you're just walking or biking, the fee is $15. An annual pass is only $45.

 

2 - Camping is Available

ThinkStock/Dinosaur National Monument

There are three campgrounds on the Colorado side and three on the Utah side. The Green River Campground is the closest one to the dinosaur quarry. Some of the campgrounds are open all year, and some offer reserved campsites. Camping fees range from $6 to $40. You'll also find some great places for a picnic.

3 - Great Hiking

ThinkStock/Dinosaur National Monument

This is a great place to enjoy hikes ranging from a half mile up to 8 miles. Off-trail hiking is permitted, but pets are not allowed on most trails or in the backcountry. You have more than a dozen hiking trails to choose from, so come prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen.

4 - Road Biking

ThinkStock/Dinosaur National Monument

Bicycling is allowed within Dinosaur National Monument, but only on paved roads, not on the trails. However, it's still a great way to see the monument and experience some great views. There are some dirt roads on BLM land adjacent to the , that are suitable for biking.

5 - All Day, All Year

ThinkStock/Dinosaur National Monuement

Dinosaur National Monument is open 24 hours a day all year, though some of the roads and facilities , during the winter. The visitor center and exhibit hall both have specific hours. The exhibit hall is where you can see hundreds of dinosaur fossils.

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