Biking, Rafting, and Dino’s, Oh My!
3 Days | Adrenaline-Pumping & Prehistoric | Families and Adventure Seekers
Utah isn’t just famous for its red rocks and arches—it is the "Dinosaur Capital of the World." From the towering sauropods of the Jurassic to the fierce Utahraptor, the Beehive State holds one of the most complete fossil records on Earth.
Whether you're a budding paleontologist or a family looking for your next adventure, here is everything you need to know about the dinosaurs found in Utah and the icons of Dinosaurland you simply can’t miss.
Day 1
Singletrack and Surreal Sunsets
Morning: Hit the Dirt
Roll into Vernal in your mountain bike gear because we kick things off with some adrenaline-pumping fun right away. Kick off your adventure by riding Jazz Chrome Molly, one of the most popular trails in Vernal. Located in the Red Fleet trail system, this trail is less than 6 miles long but is packed with flowing downhills, challenging climbs, and some incredible views of the red rock desert and phosphate-rich white clay. It’s an intermediate technical ride that will definitely get your heart racing.
Afternoon: Check-In & Chill
After your fun on the trails, check-in to one of the many lodging properties available in the area. From hotels to Airbnbs to RV parks, Vernal has what you're looking for. Once you’ve freshened up, pop into Antica Forma on Main Street. Enjoy a delicious handmade, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza—it’s the perfect fuel after a morning of riding.
Evening: Otherworldly Exploration
If you have additional time, we highly recommend taking the 45-minute drive south of town to Fantasy Canyon. This "Devil’s Playground" is a destination that will definitely be a highlight of the trip. Soak in the views and walk through natural stone formations so delicate and intricate they look like they belong on another planet. It’s the perfect spot for sunset photography.
Day 2
Run the River
Full Day: Whitewater Wonders
Rise and shine because today you get to run the river! Vernal is home to premier river rafting on the Green and Yampa rivers. With several professional rafting guides located right in town, you can be sure to get the best experience possible.
Most one-day trips tackle the Split Mountain Gorge, featuring exciting Class II and III rapids with names like "Moonshine" and "S.O.B." Enjoy the thrill of the river and soak in the majestic views of floating through towering canyons. Keep your eyes peeled—you might be lucky enough to see Bighorn sheep or soaring eagles along the cliffs.
Evening: Brews & Bites
Your rafting adventure will most likely include lunch on the river. But when you're back on dry land, cruise back to town and stop in at the Vernal Brewing Company. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy dinner and a craft beer (try the Allosaurus Amber Ale!) while you rest and wind down for the evening.
Day 3
Prehistoric Wonders
Morning: Walk Among Giants No trip to Vernal is complete without a visit to Dinosaur National Monument. Head to the Quarry Exhibit Hall on the Utah side of the park. The "Wall of Bones" is a site to behold—a massive tilted rock layer containing approximately 1,500 fossilized dinosaur bones.
Highlights:
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Get an up-close look at the fossils of Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Diplodocus.
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Touch real 150-million-year-old dinosaur fossils.
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Hike the Fossil Discovery Trail to see even more remains still embedded in the cliffside.
Whether you're a dinosaur enthusiast or a skeptic, standing in front of that wall is a truly powerful experience and the perfect way to wrap up your Vernal adventure!
Ready to Start Planning?
Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit: The best rafting weather is usually May–August.
Permits/Fees: Remind readers that Dinosaur National Monument has an entrance fee (or they can use their America the Beautiful pass)
Check out our Lodging Directory to find your perfect basecamp, from hotels and Airbnbs to scenic RV parks, then head to our Local Travel Guide for more information on the area!
Article By: Jessie Powell
January 6, 2026