Anna’s Utah Hiking Guide to Dinosaur National Monument + Vernal + Red Fleet State Park

When you think Utah, you typically think of the big 5; Arches, Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef & Canyonlands. However, there is a lot more to Utah than the National Parks. Dinosaur National Monument is a hidden gem in eastern Utah, in between Vernal and the Colorado Border. It is easily done in 2 days and 1 night when traveling from Salt Lake City. During our short trip, we also visited Vernal for a short hike located just outside the town, and Red Fleet State Park. Below are the highlights from my trip to Dino in May. If you like old things and rocks, this is the place for you.

Moonshine Arch Hike - 2.0 miles RT, 350ft elevation gain, dog friendly, minimal shade; near Vernal

Dinosaur Trackway - 2.0 miles RT, 450ft elevation gain, dog friendly, walk down towards the water to look for the fossilized dinosaur tracks, mostly downhill on the way out; Red Fleet State Park near Vernal

Dinosaur Nation Monument Quarry Exhibit Hall - this is a must see, takes maybe 15 minutes but is well worth it, gives history of the quarry and you can even touch the dinosaur bones!

Free Camping on BLM Land - this spot was located just outside the park, notice the diversity in the goegraphy and geology of the area, dog friendly; Jensen

Dinosaur National Monument Green River Trail - 2.9 miles RT, 350ft elevation gain, dog friendly; Jensen

Refueling for the drive home @ B-Fruity in Vernal - they have a drive through!