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3-day itinerary

Extended Vernal Experience

3-day tour of Dinosaur National Monument and local trails

Length
3 days · 4 sights
Pace
Moderate
Estimated cost
$150 per person
Based in
Vernal

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Dinosaurs and Desert Canyons

    Explore the world-renowned Dinosaur National Monument and enjoy the scenic drive through the canyon.

    • 08:00

      Dinosaur National Monument: Quarry and Visitor Center

      Visit the in-situ quarry to see 1,500+ dinosaur fossils embedded in the rock. Explore the visitor center for educational exhibits on the geology and paleontology of the region.

      About 2 hours

    • 11:30

      Lunch in Jensen, UT

      Enjoy a casual lunch at a local café in the small town of Dinosaur, taking a break from the heat.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 13:30

      Quarry View and Hike

      Walk the trail along the cliff face to view the exposed fossils. Take time to read the informational plaques about the excavation process and the age of the fossils.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Hotel or local cafe; Lunch at Downtown Dinosaur; Dinner at Dinosaurland Cafe
    Where to stay:
    Stay at the Executive Inn or a local motel in Jensen, UT, for a quiet night close to the monument.
    Getting around:
    A car is essential. The drive from Vernal to Dinosaur is approximately 20 minutes north on US-40.

  2. Day 2: Red Rock Canyons and Petroglyphs

    Hike the scenic trails of Red Fleet State Park and view ancient petroglyphs.

    • 09:00

      Red Fleet State Park Hike

      Hike the well-maintained trails through the red rock canyon. The 1.5-mile trail offers stunning views of the green river valley and unique geological formations.

      About 3 hours

    • 13:00

      Lunch at the Park

      Picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the park, enjoying the shade and views.

      About 60 min

    • 15:00

      McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs

      Visit the nearby McConkie Ranch to view ancient Ancestral Puebloan petroglyphs etched into the rock face. This is a short, easy walk from the main parking area.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Hotel; Lunch at Red Fleet State Park; Dinner at Local Restaurant in Vernal
    Where to stay:
    Return to the same hotel in Vernal or Dinosaur for a second night.
    Getting around:
    Drive to the Red Fleet State Park entrance, located about 12 miles east of Vernal. Parking is available at the trailhead.

  3. Day 3: Flaming Gorge and Geological History

    Explore the dramatic Flaming Gorge and visit the local natural history museum.

    • 09:00

      Flaming Gorge Scenic Drive

      Drive along the scenic byways of the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Stop at overlooks to view the deep red rock canyons and the Green River below.

      About 2 hours

    • 13:00

      Flaming Gorge Dam and Bridge

      Visit the historic Flaming Gorge Dam and bridge. Walk along the bridge for panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding canyon walls.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Utah Field House of Natural History

      Visit the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum in Vernal. Explore the exhibits on local geology, paleontology, and the history of the region, including the famous dinosaur fossils.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Hotel; Lunch at Downtown Vernal; Dinner at Local Restaurant
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Vernal, UT, for the final night to be close to the airport or next day's travel plans.
    Getting around:
    The drive to Flaming Gorge is approximately 45 minutes south. The route is scenic and well-maintained.

Practical information

Vernal, located in northeastern Utah, is best visited between late spring and early fall. While summer offers warm, dry weather ideal for hiking, it can be hot, so early morning starts are recommended. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures, though weather can be unpredictable, requiring preparation for sudden changes. Winter visits are possible but limited by snow, which may restrict access to higher elevations and certain trails. Getting to Vernal is straightforward via I-80 East, which connects to US-40 East. The drive from Salt Lake City takes approximately three hours, passing through Heber City, Duchesne, and Roosevelt. For those arriving by air, SLC is the primary airport, located about 175 miles away. Once in Vernal, the compact nature of the town and its attractions makes it manageable, though a vehicle is essential for reaching outlying sites like Dinosaur National Monument, which is roughly 30 miles away. Accommodation is centered around options like the Executive Inn & Suites, which is conveniently located for spontaneous travelers. The area offers a range of lodging, but booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure affordable rates. Staying in Vernal provides easy access to regional attractions, reducing travel stress and allowing for flexible scheduling. Budget considerations should include costs for lodging, vehicle rental, and activities. Guided tours, such as UTV rides with local operators, are available and often include safety gear, but these are additional expenses. Visitors should budget for meals, souvenirs, and any entrance fees for state parks or monuments. It is advisable to check for current deals and discounts, particularly for last-minute bookings, to manage costs effectively. When packing, bring layers to accommodate changing weather conditions, including warm clothing for cooler evenings. Sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential for outdoor activities. Additionally, consider bringing binoculars for wildlife viewing and a camera to capture the scenic landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, and be prepared for variable conditions, especially in remote areas.

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