This Colorado Spot Is Ranked No. 1 for Dinosaur Footprints in the U.S.

Here in Colorado, you’re never far from hiking trails that showcase our state’s beautiful mountain landscape. I don’t want to say that makes the hikes less enjoyable, but after a while, the scenery does start to lose its luster a bit as it becomes the norm. For this reason, my favorite hiking trails in Colorado have an "X factor" — something truly special that sets them apart. Dinosaur Ridge Trail near Matthews/Winters Park is a prime example of what I mean. This trail in Morrison, Colorado, features over 300 fossilized dinosaur tracks, and it’s ranked as the No. 1 place to see dinosaur footprints in America.

The trail is a paved section of West Alameda Parkway, which opened in 1937. When the road was carved out of the Dakota Hogback, it revealed fossilized dinosaur and crocodile tracks, a discovery that earned it a spot on the National Natural Landmarks list in 1973. It’s a moderate, out-and-back route that measures 3.7 miles in length and has an elevation gain of 700 feet. The path is quite rocky, but as long as you have some hiking experience, a pair of good shoes is all you need. Trekking poles may also prove helpful, but this is nothing like climbing a 14er! 

You’ll explore 15 separate fossil sites, all with dozens of dinosaur footprints from the Cretaceous Period. Seeing the tracks up close is a surreal experience that transports you back to prehistoric times. Picture the massive, ancient creatures walking this very land, their thundering footsteps sending shockwaves across the ground and leaving eternal imprints in the earth. Informative signs provide more information on the area's history, and should give you a greater appreciation.

The Dinosaur Ridge Trail is also home to fossilized dinosaur bones from the Jurassic Period, as well as a bed of volcanic ash that rained down and hardened eons ago. You’ll behold the staggering power of Mother Nature as you admire ripple marks formed by the waves of an ancient sea that once covered the area. As if this hike didn’t already have enough going for it, there’s another perk beyond the history and geology. Red Rocks Park is just a stone’s throw away, and the views from the trail are nothing short of jaw-dropping. 

Just be sure to get an early start if you’re hiking the Dinosaur Ridge Trail in the summer. Shade is minimal, so setting off before it really heats up will make for a much more enjoyable hike. Bring plenty of water, too. 

Visit AllTrails for more information about the Dinosaur Ridge Trail, including current trail conditions and any updates. You can also check out the Dinosaur Ridge website to learn more about the site as a whole. It doesn't matter if you are a dino lover, history buff, or just want someplace new to explore, Colorado's Dinosaur Ridge Trail deserves a spot on your bucket list.