Hike the Gates of Lodore Trail

Flat rocks at the end of the Gates of Lodore Trail provide a place to enjoy the scenery.

NPS Photo

Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) round trip
Elevation Change: Approximately 200 feet (61 meters)
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Type of Trail: Out and back, not a loop
Trailhead: Located at the Gates of Lodore Campground at the north end of the monument, 137 miles (220.4 km) from the Quarry Visitor Center and 101 (162.5 km) miles from the Canyon Visitor Center.

The trail starts up a short incline, then becomes a relatively level walk above the Green River. The trail ends at a dramatic view of the entrance to Lodore Canyon. The trail does not provide access to Lodore Canyon, which is impassable on foot.

A pamphlet for the trail is available at the Visitor Centers. Trail maps of Dinosaur National Monument are available from the park bookstore.

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Rules and Regulations

• Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail.
• To protect fragile resources, off trail hiking is not permitted in this area.
• Carry out all trash.
• Collecting artifacts, fossils, plants, antlers, or other objects is prohibited.
• Do not feed or approach wildlife.
• Biking on trails is not permitted in Dinosaur National Monument.

Your Safety

• There is no shade on this trail. This trail can be extremely slippery when wet. The trail is not stroller-friendly.
• Be prepared for desert hiking. Wear a hat and sunscreen. Take water. A minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water per person is recommended in summer.
• Temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C) in summer. To avoid the heat, hike in the morning or evening. Carry a headlamp if hiking near nightfall.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you are due back.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, such as hiking boots or athletic shoes. Open-toed shoes or sandals are not recommended.
• Watch for wildlife. This is mountain lion and black bear country. Keep small children close.
• All natural areas pose risks. Your safety depends on your own good judgement.

Details

Duration

45-120 Minutes

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets and animals who provide only comfort or emotional support are prohibited on this trail. Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, working service dogs may go wherever their handlers go.

Activity Fee

No

Visitors must pay the park entrance fee or show a valid pass at the Entrance Station or Quarry Visitor Center. There is no separate or additional fee for this activity.

Location

Gates of Lodore Campground

This trailhead is at the Gates of Lodore Campground at the north end of the monument, 135 miles (217 km) from the Quarry Visitor Center and 106 (171 km) miles from the Canyon Visitor Center.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

The trail is primarily a narrow footpath approximately 2 feet (0.6 m) wide. The surface is a mixture of dirt and rock. The trail does climb several rock stairs. While the trail is rugged and may be difficult to traverse for some individuals with mobility disabilities, the terrain would not preclude those who are willing to take on the challenge. The trail is not wheelchair accessible.