Encompassing more than 500 miles of byway, it is no wonder that Dinosaur Diamond is home to a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Along much of the route, you travel through desert; however, arresting mountain ranges are never far away. The mighty Green and Colorado Rivers run through the area of southeastern Utah and western Colorado, providing excellent rapids for rafters or spots for a morning or afternoon of fishing. Hiking, biking, hunting, and other activities are also available. Winter sports such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are popular with visitors. Some anglers seek out Dinosaur Diamond's high country for a bit of ice fishing.
River rafting is one of the most popular recreational pursuits along the byway. Both calm water and whitewater river trips are available through rafting companies based in Vernal, UT, Moab, UT, Green River, UT, and Grand Junction, CO. The whitewater rapids of the Green River in Dinosaur National Monument or the Colorado River in Cataract Canyons challenge and frighten even the most experienced of river runners during the high water levels of spring melt. Some stretched along the Green and the Colorado Rivers have flatwater where visitors can enjoy exploring the river in canoes.
Hiking opportunities abound everywhere along the byway. The terrain varies, giving visitors a taste of many of the aspects of the byway. The Uinta and La Sal Mountains offer visitors a chance for alpine hiking. The Uinta Mountain Range, the largest east to west mountain range in the 48 contiguous United States, includes the 13,525 feet King's Peak, the highest point in Utah. The red slickrock around Moab is perfect for desert hiking, while searching for dinosaur trackways or nature's arches. Each of the national parks and monuments along the corridor are amazing locations for hiking and camping. Outfitters are available all along the byway for those wanting guides, horses, or even llamas to help with heavy loads.
Moab and Fruita are fast becoming world famous for their mountain biking trails that challenge expert riders and tempt beginners. Moab is a mountain biker's paradise with trails traveling many miles. The Slickrock Bike Trail located east of Moab in Sand Flats Recreation Area is a popular biking destination. The Poison Spider Mesa Trail, another popular trail, for both jeeps and bikes, is located on Potash Road. Poison Spider Mesa offers astounding views of the area surrounding Moab and the Colorado River. The recreational diversions surrounding Dinosaur Diamond not only attracts visitors but also entices them to return for more adventures.
Winter's Quiet Escape: Dinosaur Diamond and Grand Mesa
Red Rock Recreation on Utah's Dinosaur Diamond
Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway Overview