Hiking Vernal
Where Every Step is a Discovery of Ancient EarthVernal, Utah, is where the earth tells its own story through exposed canyons and bone beds. Leave the city hustle behind and embrace the untamed wonders of Utah’s Dinoland. At Dinoland Trails, we connect you directly to the best historical and geological hiking routes, making it easy to find your perfect adventure in Vernal.
Welcome to the ultimate resource for hiking in Vernal, Utah! The Uintah Basin, affectionately known as Dinoland, offers a stunning diversity of trails unmatched in the Mountain West. Here, you can literally walk through millions of years, exploring everything from fossil-rich desert badlands to the cool, high-elevation alpine trails of the Ashley National Forest.
The Best Hikes in Vernal
Moonshine Arch
One of Vernal’s most iconic "hidden gems," this massive 85-foot-long sandstone arch is a local favorite. The trail leads you through classic high-desert scenery to a stunning natural bridge that offers incredible photo opportunities and a glimpse into the area's unique geology.
McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs
Home to world-famous Fremont Indian rock art, these panels are among the most well-preserved in the West. Walking along the base of these towering cliffs allows you to see intricate "Big Foot" figures and ancient depictions that date back over 1,000 years.
Dinosaur National Monument: Fossil Discovery Trail
This legendary path acts as a "living" museum where you can see unexcavated dinosaur bones—vertebrae and ribs—still embedded in the Morrison Formation cliff walls. It is the ultimate prehistoric treasure hunt where every step reveals a piece of ancient history.
Red Fleet State Park: Battleship Loop
Navigate a stunning landscape of Navajo Sandstone that looks like a fleet of stone ships set to sea. This 2.5-mile loop offers a moderate climb onto the "deck" of the Battleships, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the Uinta Basin and the deep blue waters of Red Fleet Reservoir
Fantasy Canyon
Experience a landscape that feels like another planet. These intricate, wind-sculpted formations are made of fragile mudstone, offering a surreal glimpse into the unique erosion and "stone laboratory" that has shaped the Uintah Basin for millions of years.
Uinta Highline Trail (Ashley National Forest)
For those seeking a true wilderness experience, this iconic trail leads into the heart of the highest mountains in Utah. As you trek across alpine meadows and past crystal-clear lakes, you are walking the rugged spine of the Uintahs, where the scale of the Earth is felt in every vista.
Find Your Next Dinoland Trail
Find trails for every kind of hiker—from red rock arches and desert canyons to dinosaur fossil paths.
Explore over 100 routes!
