What are the nearest attractions to Dinosaur Ridge?

Attractions near Dinosaur Ridge: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre Lookout Mountain Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

What else should I know about attractions in Colorado?

As well as visiting the Dinosaur Ridge, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: How to Spend 3 Days in Denver 11 Under-the-Radar National Parks in the US How to Spend 1 Day in Durango

Dinosaur Ridge - History, Location & Key Facts 2022

The basics

The highlight of Dinosaur Ridge is a 2-mile (3-kilometer) paved trail featuring more than 300 dinosaur tracks, plus fossilized bones and ripple marks from a prehistoric ocean. Visitors can walk or bike along the trail for free or pay for a 1-hour guided bus tour that stops at the most interesting sections. There's also a hop-on hop-off shuttle for those who want to explore independently without walking the entire way (check the website for shuttle operating hours).

The main visitor center features interactive exhibits that showcase what the area looked like during different prehistoric periods, plus simulated dino-dig boxes for kids.

Things to know before you go

If you're planning to walk the trail, wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers.
Bring sun protection and a water bottle to stay safe amid the high-altitude elements.
Walking the trail round-trip will take 1–2 hours.
Kids age 2 and under go free; ask about active military and veteran discounts.

Trip ideas

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When to get there

The site is open seven days a week year-round except for Thanksgiving (the last Thursday in November), Christmas (December 25), and New Year's Day (January 1). May through October, the visitors center is open daily 9am to 5pm, with shorter hours November through April. Check the website for tour departure times.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

This natural amphitheater and famous concert venue is right next to Dinosaur Ridge, so the two foothills attractions can easily be visited in one day. You can drive to both, or access the Dinosaur Ridge Trail directly from Red Rocks entrance 1. There's even a discovery center on the trail’s west side that's designed just for visitors entering from Red Rocks.

Dinosaur Ridge