Dinosaur National Monument has two identities. It was originally established as a national monument to protect an area that was one of the most productive sources of dinosaur bones in the world. This original area, the Quarry Area, contains a quarry with some 1,600 exposed bones from 11 different dinosaur species.
Near the quarry are a pleasant scenic drive, Indian petroglyphs and the Tour of Tilted Rocks, which takes you to the preserved cabin of a female homesteader, Josie Basset Morris.
Dinosaur National Monument was later expanded to include 300 square miles of great high desert canyon country through which the Green and Yampa Rivers flow. Viewed from the top, you can see the end of the Rockies and the start of the desert. This area, the Canyon Country, offers good scenery and some hiking and whitewater rafting opportunities on the two rivers. You'll want to explore Dinosaur National Monument thoroughly indeed.
Dinosaur National Monument straddles the Utah/Colorado border in the northwest corner of Colorado. The bulk of the canyon country area lies in Colorado. About 25% of the park, including the quarry area, is in Utah. There are a myriad of unpaved and nearly deserted roads available for exploration by car or bike. Rafting the Yampa River is also popular, with numerous outfitters that can simply shuttle you, or guide you on a multiple day trip. Depending on the time of year, the Yampa is a good river for beginners or the more advanced. There are numerous pristine petroglyphs in the area. The visitor's center is open, but the Quarry building is currently closed for construction. There is, however, a temporary display of dinosaur bones. The nearest substantial towns are Rangely, about 25 miles to the south, or Craig, roughly 50 miles east.
