Dinosaur Ridge (Near Morrison), Colorado: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Colorado
Scenic view of Dinosaur Ridge with the Rocky Mountains in the background on a clear sunny day

Did you know that Dinosaur Ridge is home to over 250 dinosaur footprints and is rated by paleontologists as the #1 dinosaur tracksite in the United States? This outdoor museum, just 20 minutes west of Denver along Colorado’s Front Range, offers a rare opportunity to literally walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs that roamed the area 150 million years ago. Unlike traditional museums where fossils are displayed behind glass, here you can place your hand directly in a dinosaur footprint preserved in stone for millennia.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Dinosaur Ridge is conveniently located just 20 minutes west of Denver in Morrison, Colorado. The main visitor center is situated at 16831 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465, making it an easy day trip from the Denver metro area.

Closest Airports

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the primary airport serving the region, located approximately 56 km (35 miles) east of Dinosaur Ridge. From the airport, you can rent a car or use rideshare services to reach the site.

Driving Directions

From Denver: Take I-70 West to C-470 South, then exit at Alameda Parkway and head west. The visitor center will be on your right after about 1.6 km (1 mile).

From Colorado Springs: Take I-25 North to C-470 West, then exit at Alameda Parkway and head west.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Visitors exploring Dinosaur Ridge during fall with colorful foliage in the background

Recommended Months to Visit

The best time to visit Dinosaur Ridge is from late spring through early fall (May through October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant with temperatures ranging from 18-29°C (65-85°F), making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Seasons to Avoid

Winter months (December through February) can be challenging due to snow and ice on the trails, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. While the visitor center remains open year-round, some outdoor activities may be limited during inclement weather.

Weather Considerations

Summer afternoons can get quite hot, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 32°C (90°F). The ridge has limited shade, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if visiting during summer months. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience.

Getting Around Locally

Dinosaur Ridge is primarily explored on foot or via guided bus tours. The main trail is a 2.2 km (1.4 mile) paved road that gains about 91 m (300 feet) in elevation. While not strenuous, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Transportation Options

  • Personal vehicle: Free parking is available at the main visitor center during operating hours
  • Guided bus tours: Available daily from the main visitor center
  • Walking: The entire ridge can be explored on foot via a paved road
  • Cycling: Bicycles are permitted on the main road

For those with mobility concerns, the guided bus tours provide an excellent alternative to walking the entire ridge. The buses make stops at all major fossil sites, allowing everyone to experience the highlights without the uphill trek.

Where to Stay

Cozy lodge accommodation near Dinosaur Ridge with mountain views

While there are no accommodations directly at Dinosaur Ridge, the nearby towns of Morrison and Golden offer several options within a short drive.

Nearby Accommodations

Morrison

  • Cliff House Lodge – Historic bed and breakfast in downtown Morrison
  • Holiday Chalet – Charming vacation rental options
  • Various vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO

Golden (10-15 minutes away)

  • The Golden Hotel – Overlooking Clear Creek
  • Table Mountain Inn – Southwestern-style hotel
  • Origin Red Rocks – Modern hotel with mountain views
  • Several chain hotels including Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott

For families or those planning an extended stay, vacation rentals in the foothills provide a more home-like experience with kitchen facilities and additional space. Many offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and convenient access to both Dinosaur Ridge and Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Restaurant in Morrison, Colorado with outdoor patio dining and mountain views

The town of Morrison, just minutes from Dinosaur Ridge, offers several dining options ranging from casual to upscale.

Recommended Restaurants

  • The Fort – Historic restaurant specializing in game meats and Old West cuisine
  • Morrison Inn – Mexican food and margaritas with a popular outdoor patio
  • Red Rocks Grill – Casual American fare with a family-friendly atmosphere
  • Cafe Prague – European cuisine in a charming setting

Picnic Options

Dinosaur Ridge has picnic tables available near the main visitor center, making it a perfect spot for a packed lunch. The nearby Red Rocks Park also offers scenic picnic areas with stunning views of the rock formations.

For those planning a full day of exploration, consider packing snacks and water, as food options directly at Dinosaur Ridge are limited to vending machines and small snacks available in the gift shop.

Tours & Activities at Dinosaur Ridge

Tour guide showing dinosaur tracks to a small group of visitors at Dinosaur Ridge

Dinosaur Ridge offers several tour options to suit different interests, physical abilities, and time constraints. All tours provide informative experiences about the site’s remarkable paleontological and geological features.

Guided Bus Tours

The most popular option is the 45-minute guided bus tour with an interpretive guide. These tours run throughout the day and make stops at key fossil sites where you can get out and examine the tracks up close.

  • Cost: $20 for adults (ages 12+), $14 for children (ages 3-11), free for ages 2 and under
  • Spanish language tours are also available
  • No reservations required – tours depart regularly from the main visitor center

Guided Walking Tours

For a more immersive experience, join a small group for a guide-interpreted walking tour covering several fossil sites across Dinosaur Ridge. These tours explore the geology and natural history during a 2.4 km (1.5-mile) paved walking tour.

  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Available weekends only
  • Requires moderate physical fitness

Walk with a Geologist

Geologist explaining rock formations to visitors at Dinosaur Ridge

For the ultimate educational experience, join a small group walking tour led by a local geologist. These specialized tours cover dinosaur tracks, bone fossils, and the fascinating geological changes Colorado has experienced across deep time.

  • Duration: 2-2.5 hours
  • Available certain weekends monthly
  • Perfect for science enthusiasts and those seeking in-depth knowledge

Self-Guided Walk

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, interpretive signs guide you along the 1.8 km (1.1 mile) outdoor walk along a paved road. This option is available from sunrise to sunset, with free parking at the Main Visitor Center during open hours.

  • Field Guides and Audio Tours available for purchase at the visitor center
  • No fee for self-guided exploration (donations appreciated)
  • Allows for photography and personal exploration at your own pace

Museums & Cultural Experiences

Exhibit hall at Dinosaur Ridge visitor center showing fossil displays

Dinosaur Ridge Exhibit Hall

Located at the main visitor center, the Exhibit Hall provides context for your outdoor exploration with displays detailing the geological and ecological evolution of the surrounding landscape. Highlights include:

  • Interactive exhibits about dinosaur species found at the ridge
  • Geological timeline of the area’s formation
  • Fossil replicas and educational displays
  • Kid-friendly activities and learning stations

Morrison Natural History Museum

Just a short drive from Dinosaur Ridge, the Morrison Natural History Museum offers hands-on exhibits about the area’s amazing fossil discoveries. This small but excellent museum complements your Dinosaur Ridge experience perfectly.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

  • Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – Famous concert venue with hiking trails
  • Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum – Extensive mineral collection
  • Golden History Museum – Exhibits on local history and development

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Hikers on Dakota Ridge Trail with scenic mountain views

Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the area surrounding Dinosaur Ridge offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.

Hiking Trails

The Dakota Ridge Hiking Trail connects with Dinosaur Ridge and extends into Matthews/Winters Park, offering 22.5 km (14 miles) of trails with stunning views of the mountains, Red Rocks, and Denver’s cityscape.

Wildlife Viewing

The foothills ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including mule deer, foxes, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Early morning or evening visits provide the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Photography

Dinosaur Ridge offers exceptional photography opportunities, from close-ups of ancient dinosaur tracks to sweeping vistas of the Front Range. The golden hour just after sunrise or before sunset provides dramatic lighting for landscape photography.

Seasonal Activities

  • Spring: Wildflower viewing along the trails
  • Summer: Early morning hikes before the heat of the day
  • Fall: Foliage viewing with the changing colors
  • Winter: Snow-dusted landscapes (weather permitting)

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Preservation Guidelines

Dinosaur Ridge is a protected National Natural Landmark, and the fossil tracks are irreplaceable resources. Visitors should follow these important guidelines:

  • Never touch, step on, or attempt to make impressions of the fossil tracks
  • Stay on designated paths and trails at all times
  • Photography is permitted, but no physical contact with fossils
  • Leave no trace – pack out all trash

Weather Safety

Colorado’s weather can change rapidly. Be prepared with:

  • Sunscreen and hats (the ridge has minimal shade)
  • Water bottles (especially in summer months)
  • Rain jackets (afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer)
  • Appropriate footwear for walking on paved but sometimes steep surfaces

Altitude Considerations

Dinosaur Ridge sits at approximately 1,829 m (6,000 feet) above sea level. Visitors from lower elevations may experience mild altitude symptoms. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and take breaks as needed.

Visitor Comments About Dinosaur Ridge

“Dinosaur Ridge was the highlight of our Colorado trip! As a geology enthusiast, I was amazed by how accessible these prehistoric treasures are. Placing my hand in a real dinosaur footprint created 150 million years ago was an experience my family will never forget. The guides were knowledgeable and made the science accessible even for my young children.”

G.A., Nakuru

“We visited Dinosaur Ridge during our American road trip and were impressed by both the natural beauty and the educational value. The bus tour was perfect for our schedule, and our guide explained everything in a way that made ancient history come alive. The visitor center exhibits complemented the outdoor experience perfectly. Worth every minute!”

I.P., Chittagong

“As someone who’s visited many natural history museums, seeing dinosaur tracks in their original setting was a completely different experience. The ‘Walk with a Geologist’ tour provided insights I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. The ridge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape too – bring your camera! A must-visit for anyone interested in prehistory.”

I.V., West Yorkshire

Additional Nearby Destinations

Red Rocks Amphitheatre near Dinosaur Ridge with mountain backdrop

While visiting Dinosaur Ridge, consider exploring these nearby attractions to enhance your Colorado experience:

Within 15 Minutes

  • Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – World-famous concert venue with hiking trails
  • Morrison Natural History Museum – Complementary dinosaur exhibits
  • Triceratops Trail in Golden – Another significant dinosaur trackway
  • Fossil Trace Golf Course – Unique golfing experience with visible fossils

Within 30 Minutes

  • Golden, Colorado – Historic mining town with Coors Brewery tours
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science – Extensive dinosaur exhibits
  • Buffalo Bill’s Grave and Museum on Lookout Mountain
  • Clear Creek White Water Park – Kayaking and water recreation

Day Trips

  • Rocky Mountain National Park – About 1.5 hours northwest
  • Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs – About 1 hour south
  • Dinosaur National Monument – For the dedicated dinosaur enthusiast (4-5 hour drive)

Practical Travel Tips

Hours of Operation

Main Visitor Center and Exhibit Hall:

  • Summer (May-September): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
  • Winter (October-April): 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
  • Closed on major holidays

Self-guided trail access is available from sunrise to sunset year-round.

Admission and Fees

  • Visitor Center and Exhibit Hall: $2 suggested donation
  • Self-guided walk: Free (donations appreciated)
  • Guided Bus Tour: $20 adults, $14 children (3-11), free for ages 2 and under
  • Guided Walking Tour: Varies by tour type
  • Morrison Dino Pass (includes bus tour and Morrison Museum): $34 adults, $22 children

Accessibility

The visitor center and exhibit hall are wheelchair accessible. The guided bus tours accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, making stops at key fossil sites that can be viewed from the bus or with minimal walking on paved surfaces.

What to Bring

  • Camera (the tracks photograph best in morning or late afternoon light)
  • Water bottle and snacks
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Light jacket (even summer evenings can be cool)
  • Comfortable walking shoes

Journey Through Time: Your Dinosaur Ridge Adventure Awaits

Sunset view over Dinosaur Ridge with golden light illuminating the rock formations

Dinosaur Ridge offers a rare opportunity to connect with Earth’s ancient past in a tangible, meaningful way. Standing where dinosaurs once roamed, touching the very same rocks that bear their footprints, creates a profound connection across millions of years. Whether you’re a passionate paleontology enthusiast, a family looking for educational fun, or simply a curious traveler, this natural wonder delivers an experience that transcends ordinary tourism.

As you plan your Colorado adventures, make Dinosaur Ridge a priority stop. The combination of scientific significance, natural beauty, and accessible learning makes it a standout destination that appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. In a single afternoon, you can walk through millions of years of Earth’s history, gaining insights into the ancient creatures and geological forces that shaped our world. The dinosaurs may be long gone, but at Dinosaur Ridge, their legacy lives on, waiting for you to discover.

The above is subject to change.

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