Top 5 Things to Do with Kids at Dinosaur National Monument
Updated: Aug 23
Are you planning a family trip to Dinosaur National Monument and wondering what to do with your kids? This hidden gem on the border of Utah and Colorado offers an array of kid-friendly activities that will make your visit unforgettable. From touching real dinosaur fossils to exploring scenic trails, here are the top 5 things to do with kids at Dinosaur National Monument.
1. Explore the Quarry Exhibit Hall – Touch Real Dinosaur Fossils
One of the best things to do with kids at Dinosaur National Monument is visiting the Quarry Exhibit Hall. This incredible exhibit features over 1,500 fossilized bones from dinosaurs like Allosaurus and Stegosaurus. The highlight for many kids is the opportunity to touch real dinosaur fossils! Located just a short shuttle ride from the Quarry Visitor Center, the Quarry Exhibit Hall also offers informative ranger talks that dive into the geological history of the park, making it an educational and engaging stop for the whole family.
2. Join the Junior Ranger Program – Earn a Dinosaur-Themed Badge
Don’t miss the Junior Ranger Program at Dinosaur National Monument, a perfect activity for kids. This program is designed for all ages, including pre-readers, and gives your little ones a chance to earn a unique dinosaur-themed Junior Ranger badge. The program includes a variety of activities, from exploring exhibits to attending ranger-led programs. It’s a fantastic way to get your kids involved in learning about the park’s rich history and prehistoric inhabitants.
3. Drive the Tour of the Tilted Rocks – A Scenic Family Adventure
For a scenic adventure the whole family will enjoy, take the Tour of the Tilted Rocks auto tour. This 10-mile self-guided drive along Cub Creek Road features 17 stops, including breathtaking overlooks, ancient petroglyphs, and unique rock formations like Turtle Rock and Elephant Toes Butte. This scenic drive at Dinosaur National Monument is packed with educational stops and short, family-friendly hikes, making it a must-do activity during your visit.
4. Hike the Fossil Discovery Trail – A Kid-Friendly Hike with Dinosaur Fossils
Looking for a kid-friendly hike at Dinosaur National Monument? The Fossil Discovery Trail is a 1.25-mile trail that’s perfect for families. Starting at the Quarry Exhibit Hall, this trail offers a downhill trek where you can spot fossilized dinosaur remains embedded in the rock formations. Make sure to hike in the morning or early evening to avoid the midday heat, and don’t forget essentials like water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. It’s a fun and educational hike that lets your kids explore the park’s prehistoric past.
5. Visit the Josie Bassett Morris Homestead – Step Back in Time
Another top activity for kids at Dinosaur National Monument is visiting the Josie Bassett Morris Homestead. Located at the end of the Tour of the Tilted Rocks, this historic site offers a glimpse into life in the early 1900s. Your kids will love exploring the rustic cabin and imagining what it was like to live there. It’s an educational stop that adds a historical dimension to your visit, making it one of the best family activities at Dinosaur National Monument.
Download Our Park Pals Guide for Dinosaur National Monument
Want to make the most of your visit? Download our Park Pals Guide to Dinosaur National Monument for a complete, insider’s look at the best activities, hidden gems, and tips for visiting with kids. This guide is packed with everything you need to plan the ultimate family adventure at this incredible national monument. Don’t miss out—get your guide today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!
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