Dinosaur Ridge: A Walk Through Time

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.