Planning for Dinosaur's Climate

The climate in Utah is very different now than what it was 150 million years ago. This chilly Stegosaurus greets you as you enter the Historic Quarry Visitor Center in March.

The day-to-day weather conditions are highly variable at Dinosaur National Monument. They change not only with the season, but with time of day and where you are. Elevations within the park vary between 4500 and 9000 feet. Thus, a hot summer day at the Dinosaur Quarry Visitor Center can be pleasantly cool at Harpers Corner, which is at a higher elevation. Storms often cause heavy downpours and localized flooding while failing to dampen parched soils less than a mile away.

Visitors should wear clothing appropriate for the season and activity in which they are participating. A good strategy is to wear clothing in layers. Suitable footwear for hiking in rough terrain is important.

Summer
June to August

Dinosaur's climate is semiarid. Summer afternoons are warm, averaging 95 degrees, but the nights are cool, averaging in the low 50s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. The hot summer climate means you should always carry and drink water.

Packing List

This is a list of items you will want to include as you pack for your warm-weather trip to Dinosaur:

• Hat to keep the sun off

• Water bottles

• Good hiking shoes

• Sunglasses

• Your favorite field guides

• Camera

• Layer clothing

• Sun screen

• Binoculars

• Rain gear

• Day pack or fanny pack to carry water and other items

Fall
September to November

The best climate is in the months of September and October. The days are cool, comfortable, and sunny. The nights are chilly, frost is not uncommon as early as September. The fall foliage is beautiful as the cottonwoods along the Green River turn golden yellow.

Winter
November to March/April

During winter, most moisture falls as snow and temperatures are often cold. Light to moderate snow can be expected with foggy days and subzero nights. Winter daytime temperatures range in the 20s to low 30s. The Harper's Corner Road is usually closed past the Plug Hat Trail by the first major snowstorm, but the Headquarters and Quarry Visitor Centers are open year-round.

Spring
March/April to Early June

In March and April the snow is melting and its what we call the "mud season." May can be tricky, one week it can be nice and the next week snowing. We have had snow as late as June 3rd.

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Planning Your Visit

Last Updated: April 2000