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Dinosaur Ridge: A Walk Through Time

Explore a world-famous dinosaur tracksite where you can walk in the footsteps of giants at Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison, Colorado.

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Dinosaur Ridge, located in Morrison, Colorado, is a world-renowned paleontological site featuring exposed dinosaur tracks and fossils from the Late Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Visitors can explore the ridge and visitor center to learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area and the geological history of the region.

A brief summary to Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade along the Dinosaur Ridge Trail.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a paved but uneven surface.
  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking.
  • Check the Dinosaur Ridge website for seasonal hours and tour schedules.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history and geology.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Denver, take C-470 to the Alameda Parkway exit. Head west on Alameda Parkway, and the Main Visitor Center will be on your right. Parking is free. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak hours.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Denver, go to the RTD (Regional Transportation District) bus terminal at 16th Street Mall & California. Take the 56L bus towards Morrison. Get off at the stop closest to Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center, then walk about 10 minutes west on Alameda Parkway to the visitor center. A single ride on the RTD bus costs $3.00.

  • Ride-Sharing Services

    Use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft from Denver. Input the destination address (16831 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465) into the app. The fare will depend on the distance traveled and the time of day, so be sure to check the estimated cost in the app before confirming your ride. A short trip from a nearby location could cost approximately $15-$25.

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Discover more about Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center

Dinosaur Ridge is a captivating journey into the prehistoric past, situated just west of Denver in Morrison, Colorado. This National Natural Landmark is celebrated for its wealth of dinosaur tracks and fossils, offering a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of giants who roamed the Earth millions of years ago. The Main Visitor Center serves as the perfect starting point for your exploration. Here, you can delve into the history of the ridge, examine fascinating exhibits, and learn about the dinosaurs whose remains have been discovered here. Knowledgeable docents are on hand to answer questions and provide insights into the geological and paleontological significance of the site. The Exhibit Hall features paleo-murals, fossil replicas, and real fossil bones of long-necked dinosaurs. Kids can enjoy hands-on experiences such as digging for souvenir fossils. The highlight of Dinosaur Ridge is the self-guided walking tour along the exposed ridge. Here, you'll encounter hundreds of dinosaur tracks embedded in the sandstone, offering a tangible connection to the Cretaceous Period. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the different types of tracks and the dinosaurs that made them. Dinosaur Ridge's story began in 1877 when Arthur Lakes, a professor, discovered dinosaur fossils in the area. These discoveries led to the naming of iconic dinosaurs such as Stegosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Allosaurus. Today, the nonprofit Friends of Dinosaur Ridge helps preserve the site and educate visitors.

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