Silver Reef Trail | Utah
The Red Cliffs Dinosaur Tracksite is located along the Silver Reef Trail in Red Cliffs Campground. From the trailhead near campsite 7 and the restrooms, this short (0.2 mile), single‑track trail leads past marked dinosaur tracks to a viewpoint over the historic Silver Reef geologic formation. Sweeping views of surrounding redrock cliffs accompany interpretive panels that explain the site’s scientific significance and offer guidelines for protecting these fragile fossils.
The trail and trackway lie where the Kayenta Formation transitions into Navajo Sandstone—river-deposited siltstones and mudstones layered with wind-blown sandstone. Tracks were preserved when dinosaurs walked on soft sediments along stream or lake margins during intermittent wetter climates approximately 190 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period. Identified ichnotaxa include Grallator, Kayentapus, and Eubrontes—likely made by bipedal carnivorous theropods such as Megapnosaurus and Dilophosaurus. Additional dinosaur tracks may be seen along the Red Reef East Trail.
Silver Reef was mined for silver hosted in sandstone – a unique occurrence that is historically notable for being the only known silver ore deposit in sandstone.
Hours and Seasons
Open year‑round. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures for short hikes and viewing the tracks, while summer heat can be extreme.
Features and Services
- Access & Parking: The trailhead is inside Red Cliffs Campground. Day‑use fees apply and parking can be limited during peak seasons.
- Cell Service: Variable to limited—do not rely on a consistent signal.
- Toilets: Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.
- Potable water: Potable water is available in the campground.
- Pets: Allowed on leash (6 ft); keep pets off fossil surfaces and follow posted site etiquette.
- Camping: Camping is available only within designated sites within Red Cliffs Campground.
- Nearby Amenities: Services are available in Leeds, Washington City, and St. George (food, fuel, lodging).
Respect and Protect
Dinosaur tracks are trace fossils and protected; viewing and photography are welcome, but removing, casting, or defacing vertebrate fossils is prohibited. Stay on designated trails, follow signs, and practice responsible outdoor ethics.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
The trail is unimproved and has uneven surfaces, slickrock, and a relatively steep climb to the overlook. It is generally not considered wheelchair accessible.
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Addresses
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Access note: Entry to the Red Cliffs Recreation Area is through two narrow tunnels under I‑15 that restrict vehicle height/width to less than ~12 feet; large RVs or trailers may not fit—plan accordingly.
Northbound from St. George: Take I‑15 Exit 22 (UT‑228/Leeds). Turn right onto Old Highway 91 and continue ~2 miles. Turn right onto West Red Cliffs Campground Road, pass through the tunnels, and follow signs into the campground; the Silver Reef Trail starts near campsite 7 and the restrooms.
Southbound from Cedar City: Take I‑15 Exit 23 toward UT‑228/Leeds. Turn left onto Silver Reef Road, then right onto Main Street. Continue south on Old Highway 91 for ~2 miles, turn right onto West Red Cliffs Campground Road, pass through the tunnels, and follow signs into the campground.
Fees
Free with entry to Red Cliffs Recreation Area.