Dinosaur National Monument

Known for its rich fossil beds, but also protects a rugged landscape of canyons, rivers, and mountains. This area supports bighorn sheep, mule deer,...

Dinosaur National Monument at a Glance

Location
Rocky Mountains & Northern Plains, United States, North America
Coordinates
40.480000, -109.000000
Area
853 km²
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Dinosaur National Monument

Nearest airport: 3-I Rocker Ranch Airport, 30 km away.

Nearest international airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), 254 km away.

Weather & Climate in Dinosaur National Monument

The warmest temperatures in Dinosaur National Monument occur in July, averaging 25.9°C (up to 32.2°C). The coolest conditions are in January at -5.9°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 7.4mm. Average humidity: 25.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: -5.9°C (rainfall: 30.3mm)
  • February: -5.5°C (rainfall: 26.0mm)
  • March: -0.6°C (rainfall: 55.9mm)
  • April: 6.2°C (rainfall: 23.6mm)
  • May: 13.9°C (rainfall: 26.9mm)
  • June: 21.5°C (rainfall: 23.0mm)
  • July: 25.9°C (rainfall: 7.4mm)
  • August: 23.9°C (rainfall: 25.7mm)
  • September: 18.9°C (rainfall: 23.9mm)
  • October: 10.4°C (rainfall: 36.2mm)
  • November: 1.2°C (rainfall: 21.6mm)
  • December: -3.6°C (rainfall: 38.4mm)

Best Time to Visit Dinosaur National Monument

The best months to visit Dinosaur National Monument are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature -5.87°C, rainfall 30.3mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 81%
  • February: Good, temperature -5.47°C, rainfall 26mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 72.4%
  • March: Good, temperature -0.55°C, rainfall 55.9mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • April: Great, temperature 6.18°C, rainfall 23.6mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 48%
  • May: Great, temperature 13.89°C, rainfall 26.9mm, sunshine 12.7 hrs, humidity 37.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 21.47°C, rainfall 23mm, sunshine 13.7 hrs, humidity 29%
  • July: Great, temperature 25.9°C, rainfall 7.4mm, sunshine 13.9 hrs, humidity 25.8%
  • August: Great, temperature 23.95°C, rainfall 25.7mm, sunshine 12.8 hrs, humidity 33.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 18.91°C, rainfall 23.9mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 33.8%
  • October: Good, temperature 10.36°C, rainfall 36.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 47.5%
  • November: Good, temperature 1.22°C, rainfall 21.6mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 59%
  • December: Good, temperature -3.59°C, rainfall 38.4mm, sunshine 7.2 hrs, humidity 70.5%

Wildlife in Dinosaur National Monument

Home to 25 recorded species including 13 birds of prey, 7 waterbirds, 2 big herbivores, 2 iconic birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Dinosaur National Monument

Based on average temperature of 8.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 51%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 9°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Dinosaur National Monument

3 safari lodges available.

budget

mid-range

Similar Parks in Rocky Mountains & Northern Plains

Visitor Tips - Dinosaur National Monument

We find Dinosaur National Monument truly unique for its unparalleled window into the Jurassic past, where you can literally touch millions-of-years-old dinosaur bones. Beyond the fossils, the dramatic confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers, carved canyons, and ancient petroglyphs offer a profound sense of geological time and human history that we find deeply moving.

Gate Times

The Quarry Visitor Center in Utah, home to the famous Wall of Bones, typically opens daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, though hours extend in summer and shorten in winter. We always check the official park website for current seasonal variations, especially as the road to the Quarry Exhibit Hall can close due to snow. The Colorado side, offering stunning canyon views and river access, is generally accessible year-round, though some roads may be seasonal. No special permits beyond the standard entrance fee are required for general access.

Tipping

Unlike safari experiences, tipping park rangers or staff at Dinosaur National Monument is not customary or expected. We recommend showing your appreciation by adhering to park rules and leaving no trace.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for United States

Travel advisory for United States

Dinosaur National Monument FAQs

When is the ideal time of year to visit Dinosaur National Monument for both fossil viewing and outdoor activities?

The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild, making it comfortable for hiking, rafting, and exploring the outdoor exhibits. While the Quarry Exhibit Hall is open year-round, these shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather for enjoying the monument's extensive trail system and scenic drives without the intense summer heat or winter snow.

Beyond the famous fossil wall, what unique activities and sights can I experience at Dinosaur National Monument?

In addition to the iconic Quarry Exhibit Hall, you can explore ancient petroglyphs and pictographs along the Cub Creek Road, or embark on scenic drives like the Harpers Corner Road for breathtaking canyon views. The Green and Yampa Rivers offer opportunities for whitewater rafting, and numerous trails cater to various hiking levels, allowing you to discover the monument's diverse ecosystems and rugged beauty.

What are the typical entry fees and other costs associated with visiting Dinosaur National Monument?

A 7-day private vehicle pass for Dinosaur National Monument typically costs around $25-$30, granting access to both the Utah and Colorado sides of the monument. This fee covers entry for all occupants. Backcountry camping permits are also available for a small additional fee, but most other activities like hiking and scenic drives are included with your entrance pass.

What safety precautions should I take when exploring the rugged terrain and observing wildlife at Dinosaur National Monument?

Given the monument's remote and rugged nature, always carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and inform someone of your hiking plans. While wildlife like bighorn sheep and mule deer are present, maintain a safe distance and never feed animals. Be aware of potential hazards such as rattlesnakes, scorpions, and flash floods, especially during monsoon season, and check weather forecasts before venturing out.

How does Dinosaur National Monument's low crowding level enhance the visitor experience compared to other national parks?

With a crowding level of 1/5, Dinosaur National Monument offers a more secluded and intimate experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with its natural and paleontological wonders without large crowds. This means easier access to trailheads, less competition for scenic viewpoints, and a greater chance for quiet contemplation and undisturbed wildlife viewing, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.