Warner Valley Dinosaur Track Site | Utah

Located in the Warner Valley area near Saint George, Utah, this dinosaur track site is popular with visitors for its easy access and the quality of its trackways. The site was originally thought to contain only 161 tracks, but a detailed investigation in 2010 revealed more than 400 footprints, with new discoveries continuing. These tracks occur in both trackways and as isolated prints, and some are exceptionally well preserved, showing toe pads and claw marks.

It is impossible to know with certainty which dinosaurs made these tracks, but the larger footprints are classified as Eubrontes and the smaller as Grallator. These names represent ichnogenera—groups based on footprint characteristics rather than skeletal remains. The Grallator tracks at this site are attributed to coelophysid dinosaurs such as Megapnosaurus, while the Eubrontes tracks are widely accepted as having been made by a Dilophosaurus-sized theropod.

The tracks are preserved on the Springdale Member of the Kayenta Formation, making them Early Jurassic in age, approximately 190 million years old. The rock is fine-grained reddish-brown and white sandstone, deposited in environments that alternated between river channels and floodplains, creating ideal conditions for preserving these remarkable trace fossils. 

Hours and Seasons

The site is open year-round with short daylight hours in winter. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer visits require sun protection and ample water, while winter may bring colder conditions. 

Features and Services

• Access and Parking: A gravel parking area is available at the trailhead. The access road is a well-maintained dirt road suitable for most passenger vehicles, although high-clearance vehicles are preferred after rain.
• Cell Service: Variable and often limited due to the remote location; do not depend on consistent reception.
• Toilets: None at the site; please plan accordingly.
• Drinking Water: Not available; visitors must bring their own supply.
• Pets: Pets are welcome on a leash. Keep them off the tracks to help preserve the fossils.
• Camping: No developed campgrounds or overnight facilities are provided at the tracksite. Primitive dispersed camping may be allowed in the surrounding area according to BLM regulations.
• Nearby Amenities: Hurricane and Saint George offer services including food, gas, lodging, and medical facilities.

Respect and Protect

These dinosaur footprints are protected trace fossils. Visitors may walk near and view them, but must not remove, cast, or deface the prints. Please stay on designated paths and use responsible outdoor ethics to preserve this important paleontological resource.

Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)

The short trail crosses uneven sandy wash and slickrock. It has minimal elevation change but is not considered wheelchair accessible.