Fossils, Footprints, and Formations
2 Days | Historic & Family-Friendly | Dinosaur Enthusiasts and Explorers
In Vernal, the prehistoric past isn’t just a chapter in a textbook—it’s etched into the very cliffs and streets around you.Known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World, this region offers a rare opportunity to stand in the shadow of giants and touch bones that have been frozen in stone for 150 million years. Whether you're a serious fossil hunter or a family looking for an educational adventure, this 2-day guide is designed to immerse you in the Jurassic. From the world-famous "Wall of Bones" to the 200-million-year-old tracks at the water's edge, prepare for an expedition where history truly comes to life.
Day 1
Ancient Bones and Dinosaur Footprints
Morning: Dinosaur National Monument (Wall of Bones) Start your journey at the heart of Dinosaurland: the Quarry Exhibit Hall. After stopping at the Visitor Center, take the shuttle (or drive, depending on the season) up to the world-renowned Wall of Bones. This massive rock face contains roughly 1,500 fossils embedded exactly where they were found.
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Time: Allow 2–3 hours to fully explore the hall and talk with rangers.
Mid-Day: Tilted Rocks Scenic Drive Continue your exploration within the Monument by driving the Tilted Rocksroute. This scenic drive offers more than just geology; stop to see the ancient Swelter Shelter Petroglyphs and visit the historic Josie Morris Cabin to see how early settlers lived among the ruins of the dinosaurs.
Afternoon: Red Fleet Dino Tracks Head about 20 minutes north of Vernal to Red Fleet State Park. Hike the 1.5-mile trail down to the shoreline to view 200-million-year-old tracks left by the giants that once walked here.
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Pro-Tip: The tracks are easiest to spot when the reservoir water level is low—don't forget your camera!
Evening: Dino-Themed Dinner Head back into town for dinner at the Dinosaur Brew Haus. Enjoy a themed meal with specialty burgers and local craft drinks in an atmosphere that celebrates everything prehistoric.
Day 2
Museums, Murals, and City Dinosaurs
Morning: The Field House Museum Kick off day two at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in downtown Vernal. Explore the extensive indoor fossil exhibits before stepping into the Dinosaur Garden, which features life-sized replicas of T. Rex, Triceratops, and more.
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Time: Allow 2–3 hours for a full walk-through.
Mid-Day: Dinosaur Mural & Downtown Exploration Vernal’s city streets are just as wild as the backcountry. Start at the Downtown Dinosaur Mural for a photo op, then explore the town to find the various painted dinosaur statues. No tour is complete without a visit to Dinah—the iconic 40-foot-tall pink dinosaur.
Lunch: Whimsical Dino Lunch Stop for a bite at the Dinoland Cafe. Located conveniently at the Dinaland Golf Course, this on-theme cafe offers satisfying meals to refuel you for your final afternoon of discovery.
Afternoon: Optional Stops & Souvenirs Before you hit the road, consider a stop at the Uinta County Heritage Museum to learn about the human history of the basin, or browse local shops for unique prehistoric souvenirs to take home.
Ready to Start Planning?
From the Wall of Bones to the city streets, Dinosaurland is ready to prove that the age of the dinosaurs is still alive and roaring. Your expedition doesn't have to end here! After a two-day deep dive into the prehistoric past, stick around Vernal to enjoy a spectacular change of scenery and pace.
Check out our Lodging Directory to find your perfect basecamp, or head to our Local Travel Guide for more information on the area!
Article By: Jessie Powell
January 12, 2026