Dinosaur Ridge: A Journey Through Time
Walk where dinosaurs roamed at Dinosaur Ridge, a top-rated fossil site near Denver with tracks, bones, and fascinating geological history.
Explore Dinosaur Ridge, a world-renowned fossil site near Denver, Colorado, where the first Stegosaurus fossils were discovered. Walk along the Dakota Hogback, see dinosaur tracks and bones, and learn about the region's rich prehistoric past.
A brief summary to Dinosaur Ridge
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing, as there is limited shade and the weather can change quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the paved trail, which has a gradual incline.
- Visit the Main Visitor Center and Exhibit Hall to learn about the dinosaurs and geology before heading out on the trail.
- Consider taking a guided bus tour for a more in-depth experience and access to areas not accessible on the self-guided walk.
- Check the Dinosaur Ridge website for seasonal hours and special events.
Getting There
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Driving
Dinosaur Ridge is located off C-470 at the Alameda Parkway exit. From Denver, take C-470 west to the Alameda Parkway exit. Follow the signs to the Main Visitor Center. Parking is free at the Main Visitor Center and additional parking is available at the east and west gates. Note that parking lots close and are locked at either 4 PM or 5 PM depending on the season.
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Public Transport
From Denver Union Station, take the tram to Federal Center Station. From there, take a taxi or rideshare to Dinosaur Ridge. The tram ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs $3. A taxi or rideshare from Federal Center Station to Dinosaur Ridge will cost approximately $25-$30. Alternatively, take the bus from Denver to W Colfax Ave & Colorado Mills Blvd. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to Dinosaur Ridge.
Discover more about Dinosaur Ridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mother Cabrini Shrine
3.1 km
Experience spiritual serenity and breathtaking mountain views at the Mother Cabrini Shrine, a cherished sanctuary in Golden, Colorado.
Boettcher Mansion-Lookout Mt
5.8 km
Discover the stunning Boettcher Mansion on Lookout Mountain, a historic venue with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Windy Saddle Park
6.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene trails of Windy Saddle Park in Golden, Colorado - a perfect outdoor escape for all ages.
Mount Falcon Park
6.3 km
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Walker Mansion Ruins
6.9 km
Explore the enchanting Walker Mansion Ruins in Morrison, Colorado, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty amidst serene landscapes.
Downtown Golden
7.0 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Downtown Golden, a vibrant destination in Colorado perfect for tourists seeking adventure and culture.
The Newsboy Statue
7.2 km
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West Trailhead
7.3 km
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Brandy Duvall memorial cross
7.4 km
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Arapahoe City Histoical Marker
9.2 km
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Brickyard House
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North Table Mountain
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Wheat Ridge Historic Park
11.5 km
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Fort Logan National Cemetery
13.7 km
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Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides
13.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Matthews / Winters Park
0.4 km
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Dinosaur Ridge Main Visitor Center
1.0 km
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The Martin G. Lockley Discovery Center at Dino Ridge
1.6 km
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Green Mountain
2.0 km
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William Frederick Hayden Park
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Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
3.2 km
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Lariat Loop Scenic Byway
4.7 km
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Barrels & Bottles Brewery at Camp George West
4.8 km
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Morrison Natural History Museum
5.1 km
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Morrison Trailhead
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Lookout Mountain
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Lookout Mountain Park
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The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
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Lair o’ the Bear Park
5.7 km
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Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve
5.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Buckhorn Exchange
17.2 km
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duo Restaurant
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Forest Room 5
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Bar Dough
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El Five
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Linger
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Jacques
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Senor Bear
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Coohills
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Rhein Haus Denver
18.1 km
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INTUEAT - Denver's Fine Dining Experiences
18.1 km
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Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar
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The Bindery
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Citizen Rail
18.1 km
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Tavernetta
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jolly Goods
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Ruby Jane Boutique - Denver Highlands
16.0 km
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Agape Grow
16.5 km
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Common Era
17.8 km
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Art Of Beaming
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Patterns & Pops
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MCA Shop
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Mojave + Tejon Dry Goods
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milly rose designs
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Show Pony Vintage - LoDo
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Garage Sale Vintage - Denver
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Two Birds One Stone, LLC
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The Oddemporium
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Fifty Two 80's A Totally Awesome Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Squeeze
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The Nearby Bar
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Lady Jane
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Williams & Graham
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Postino LoHi
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Occidental
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Recess Beer Garden
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Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club
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Upstairs Circus LoDo
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The Wild
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Roosevelt
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The Front Porch
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Ghost Donkey – Denver
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Terminal Bar
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Adrift
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