Dinosaur Ridge
A fossil ridge next to Red Rocks, where you can see up to hundreds of dinosaur tracks and Jurassic bone layers up close.
In 1877, geologist Arthur Lakes discovered dinosaur skeletal fossils here, including stegosaurus, and the site became an important location in the history of American paleontology. It is now a National Natural Landmark. Along the roughly 2.4-km ridge trail, the west side reveals Jurassic Morrison Formation bone beds, while the east side features Cretaceous dinosaur tracks preserved in sandstone. The trail is free, and the visitor center offers guided tours on a paid shuttle bus. The site is adjacent to Red Rocks Park, so it's a good stop before a sunset or a concert.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–16:30 (trails open daytime)
Nearby sights
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
- Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave
- Coors Brewery & Downtown Golden
- Meow Wolf Convergence Station
- Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
- Confluence Park
- Larimer Square
- Denver Union Station