Fossil Point trailhead

Fossil Point trailhead | Utah

Fossil Point offers a rare glimpse into the Jurassic period, with exposed dinosaur bones preserved in the Brushy Basin Member of the Morrison Formation sandstone dating back roughly 145 million years. Visitors can hike informal trails from the parking area to boulders containing visible fossils — vertebrae, limb bones, and other skeletal fragments from large sauropods — naturally displayed and accessible for viewing and gentle touch. 

Beyond Fossil Point, a rough route descends toward the Green River, providing off-road exploration for high-clearance vehicles. This site combines casual hiking, fossil discovery, and opportunities for responsible recreation amid sweeping desert landscapes.

Hours and Seasons

Open year-round. Summer temperatures can be very high with minimal shade; early morning or evening visits are recommended.

Features and Services

  • Access and Parking: Gravel parking area accommodates standard vehicles; high-clearance or 4WD may be useful in wet weather.
  • 4×4 Driving: Beyond Fossil Point, a rough trail descends to the Green River, offering off-road exploration opportunities for high-clearance vehicles. Please tread lightly.
  • Cell Service: Limited and inconsistent; do not count on reliable signal.
  • Toilets: None available on-site.
  • Drinking Water: No water is available on-site; please bring your own.
  • Pets: Pets are allowed on leash.
  • Camping: Overnight camping is prohibited at the trailhead, but primitive, dispersed camping is permitted on adjacent BLM lands. Please check fire restrictions in advance, follow guidance on posted signs, and respect private property. Developed campgrounds are available in the Green River area.
  • Nearby Amenities: Green River (north) provides food, fuel, lodging, and medical services.

Respect and Protect

A protected resource, dinosaur bones are awesome to see and touch but fragile, irreplaceable, and illegal to take. Observe and photograph, but do not disturb or remove them. Practicing responsible outdoor ethics ensures these resources remain for future generations.

Photos

Fossil Point trailhead
Fossil Point trailhead

Fossil Point Flickr Album

Person looking at a fossil

Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)

The site includes uneven terrain, loose rocks, and informal trails; it is generally not considered wheelchair accessible.

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

Activities

Iconograph of a spoked wheel and an arrowhead.
HISTORIC & CULTURAL SITE
Iconograph of two people wearing backpacks and using walking sticks
HIKING
Iconograph of a camera
PHOTOGRAPHY

Geographic Coordinates

38.84075, -110.1990278

Directions

From Green River, head south on Broadway/Green River Ave, then right onto Airport Road. After approximately 2.9 miles, turn left onto a maintained gravel road. Continue past Horse Bench Reservoir and over the dam, then turn left after 11.4 miles onto a dirt road. Follow 1.2 miles to the Fossil Point Trailhead parking area.

Fees

No fees

Stay Limit

14 days