description Dinosaur National Monument Overview
Dinosaur National Monument is a protected area spanning northeastern Utah and northwestern Colorado, established in 1915 around a major dinosaur fossil quarry. At the Quarry Exhibit Hall, visitors can see more than 1,500 dinosaur bones preserved in an exposed rock face, including remains of large Jurassic dinosaurs. The monument also protects the canyons of the Green and Yampa rivers, archaeological sites, petroglyphs, historic remains, and extensive high-desert ecosystems.
help Dinosaur National Monument FAQ
Can you see real dinosaur fossils at Dinosaur National Monument?
Yes, the Quarry Exhibit Hall encloses an exposed rock wall containing more than 1,500 dinosaur bones. Visitors can see fossils from animals such as Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Camarasaurus, and Stegosaurus.
Is Dinosaur National Monument mainly in Utah or Colorado?
The monument crosses the Utah and Colorado border. The dinosaur quarry and Quarry Exhibit Hall are near Jensen, Utah, while much of the canyon scenery and river country extends into Colorado.
Why was Dinosaur National Monument created?
It was established in 1915 to protect the fossil quarry discovered by paleontologist Earl Douglass. President Woodrow Wilson initially protected about 80 acres surrounding the dinosaur deposits.
What can visitors do besides viewing dinosaur bones?
The monument also protects canyons carved by the Green and Yampa rivers, with opportunities for rafting, hiking, camping, and viewing Indigenous rock art. Scenic drives on the Colorado side lead toward overlooks such as Harpers Corner.
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