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THE ORIGIN OF

Welcome to Dinosaurland - Vernal, Utah

Utah’s "Dinosaurland" is an exciting destination for outdoor recreation and taking a step back into prehistory. Visitors can enjoy a variety of museums and historical sites, outdoor activities, exploring, and relaxation in rugged nature. Vernal and the rest of Uintah County, Utah has always been a land of adventure, for millions of years! We invite you to come experience your own adventure in Dinosaurland.

What is Dinosaurland?

"Dinosaurland" is the nickname given to this area of northeastern Utah due to the many dinosaur fossils that have been discovered and studied in the area. Vernal is proud of its history and pre-history and hosts tourists all year round who want to come see evidence of the creatures that roamed this land anciently.

But Dinosaurland has much more to offer than just a pile of bones. Uintah County is full of exciting things to do and see! Travelers come from all over to experience some of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in the West. If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll love visiting Vernal and the rest of Dinoland!

Visiting Vernal, Utah - The Origin of Adventure

Interested in learning about the dinosaurs and seeing the evidence that they once roamed the earth? You’ve come to the right place.

Looking to escape the grind for a while and soak up some nature? Dinoland has a forest grove, riverbank, and mountain trail with your name on it.

Or, if you’re seeking something to get your adrenaline pumping, we’ve got that too. Buckle up! It’s time for adventure.

Things to See

Dinosaur National Monument

One of the main draws to Vernal is Dinosaur National Monument. Visitors to this special place get to see an entire rock wall full of real fossils! Some bones are even available for touching. Adults and children alike can have a great time together as they step back in time at this unique monument.

State Parks

Dinosaurland has 3 Utah state parks and a state park museum. Each park offers unique scenery and places to explore. The state parks are great places to go to spot local wildlife too. Learn more about what the state parks have to offer as you plan your trip to Dinosaurland.

Museums

From the time of the dinosaurs to today, the Vernal area is full of history. There are multiple museums available for year-round visiting where you can learn about the life, culture, and events in Utah’s Dinoland.

Ashley National Forest

On the north end of Uintah County is Ashley National Forest, a beautiful and large stretch of wooded area where visitors can hike, ride horses and ATVs, camp, fish, and more. If you know where to look, you can even find some ancient petroglyphs that were left behind by the early inhabitants that called this forest home. Check out one of the most peaceful areas in Dinosaurland that is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!

Click here to check out some of the other popular things to see in the Vernal, Utah area.

Things to Do

Hit the Trails

Criss-crossing all across Uintah County are endless trails for exploring. You’ll never run out of trails for hiking, ATVs, mountain biking, and other activities. Check out this helpful trail guide to choosing where you’ll go for your favorite activities.

River Rafting

Some of the rivers in Dinoland are good for easy-going rafting for when you want to relax and see the landscape from the river. But the Green River also has a stretch of Class III and Class IV whitewater rapids that being thrill-seekers from all around the world! You’ll want to be sure to have an experienced river guide with you if you’re planning to raft the rough water. Learn more about rafting in Uintah County and prepare to get wet!

Scenic Drives

Many visitors enjoy seeing Utah’s incredibly varied landscape from the comfort of their vehicle on the open road. There are multiple routes across Dinosaurland that take you past canyons, lakes, forest and mountains. Along your drive, you’ll come across multiple tourist sites like dinosaur fossil beds and museums. Check out some of the more popular scenic drives that you may want to incorporate into your trip to Utah’s Dinosaurland.

Where to Stay

Depending on which type of visitor you are, you can find a lodging option suited to your travel plans. Throughout Vernal and the rest of Dinoland, visitors can find a variety of hotels, motels, campgrounds, and RV parks. Browse lodging options here.

Where to Eat

Dinosaurland has enough tasty restaurant options to satisfy any dino-sized appetite. There are some local favorites here that you don’t want to miss when you’re in town. Choose one of the great local restaurants in the area and be sure to come hungry!

Plan your Trip to Utah’s Dinosaurland

We like to call Vernal the “Origin of Adventure”, and we take pride in the fact that this destination certainly lives up to its name. Dinosaurland is a unique type of vacation or weekend getaway where anyone can find the type of adventure they are looking for without the crowds of a major city or the prices of an expensive resort.

A trip to Utah’s Dinosaurland will surely be memorable. To help you plan your visit, check out our travel guides and suggested itineraries. There’s something for everyone here. Come make some fun memories in the land where dinosaurs roamed and the adventure never ends!

Don’t forget to check out our children’s
storybook series & app starring Vern & Al!

Meet Vern & Al

This prehistoric duo has been exploring the endless activities in Dinosaurland for 150 million years. Read about their outrageous adventures below!

Download the storybooks!

Download the mobile game!