Posted in Massachusetts
September 04, 2016
Most People Have No Idea This Unique Park In Massachusetts Exists
At this Massachusetts park, you can literally follow in the footsteps of dinosaurs. More than 130 dinosaur tracks are embedded in the sandstone of Holyoke’s Dinosaur Footprints reservation, which was among first places in the world where such tracks were discovered and documented in 1836.
Read on to learn more about visiting this cool, lesser-known state park. If you’re inspired to explore more beautiful and fascinating sites, check out our Massachusetts natural wonders road trip.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
There are about 130 footprints scattered throughout the reservation. Follow one of the 20+ dinosaur trackways, which were the basis for the theory that dinosaurs actually traveled in packs, rather than as solitary hunters.
So what kinds of creatures left these footprints? Researchers believe that many of the dinosaurs that once roamed this area were two-legged, carnivorous, and may have been up to 15 feet tall. They prowled in small groups across the Connecticut River Valley landscape around 190 million years ago, which was actually a sub-tropical swamp at the time.
There are larger prints in the stone, too. These are thought to be those of Eubrontes, the ancestors of the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. At nearly 15 feet tall and a staggering 20 feet long, these lizards once dominated the Holyoke area.
The park’s main trail runs parallel to Route 5. The trail makes for easy walking, no matter your ability level or age. Besides being a great family and educational destination, this park is a beautiful way to catch a glimpse of the Connecticut River as it winds past the reservation.
The park is open during daylight hours, and operates between April 1 and November 30. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leash. You’ll need at least a half hour to explore this park, but plan on staying for an hour or so to get the full experience.
Have you visited the Dinosaur Footprints reservation? Do you have any other recommendations for great things to do in Western Mass.? Let us know!
