Discover Dinosaur Fossils and Enjoy Flaming Gorge Views

Today you will discover dinosaur fossils at the Dinosaur National Monument's Quarry Exhibit Hall. This site features a wall with approximately 1,500 dinosaur bones ranging from Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, Stegosaurus, and many others.
They'll even let you touch some of the actual dinosaur fossils! You can also explore the exhibits that explain how the dinosaurs lived in the local environment more than 149 million years ago.

Just outside the quarry is the Fossil Discovery Trail where you can see numerous dinosaur fossils and bone fragments in the rock layers. This moderate trail is 1.2 miles, one way, from the Quarry Exhibit Hall. The trail goes through several rock layers and features three fossil areas. There is no shade on this trail, so be sure to take a hat, sunscreen, and water.

After your hike, take a short drive to the Swelter Shelter petroglyphs and pictographs of the Fremont culture. To view the petroglyphs, it is an easy 60 meters from the parking area. Do not touch the ancient art as petroglyphs and pictographs are fragile and sacred.

Your visit to Dinosaur National Monument is now complete! Head back into Vernal to grab lunch before you begin your drive back to Salt Lake City. Try out the festive Mexican food at the Plaza Mexicana.

The next two stops will test your fear of heights. The Flaming Gorge Dam stands 502 feet above the Green River. It was built in 1964 for water storage and hydroelectric power. At the visitor center, you can see a 3D model of the dam and interactive displays. You will also be able to stroll outside along a portion of the walkway to enjoy the scenic views.

The views from above continue! Often noted as the most scenic view of Flaming Gorge, the Red Canyon Overlook towers above 1,400 feet from the water. The overlook is open year-round with an interpretive trail and possible sightings of bighorn sheep and mule deer. When you go inside the Red Canyon Visitor Center, you'll find that it was built on the cliff edge and that a portion of the viewing room hangs over the cliff.

You will continue to enjoy the scenic drive as you head to Evanston for dinner. Stop by Bon Rico for traditional American dishes, including steaks, seafood, pasta and sandwiches. This establishment has served patrons in Evanston for over 25 years.