Last updated: August 23, 2022
Thing to Do
Hike the River Trail at Dinosaur National Monument
NPS
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip
Elevation Change: Approximately 500 feet (152 m)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Type of Trail: Out and back, not a loop. Can be done as a through hike you make arrangements to be picked up at the opposite trailhead.
Trailheads: Split Mountain Campground or Loop A of the Green River Campground
This 1.5 mile (2.4 km) one-way trail follows the Green River, connecting the Green River and Split Mountain Campgrounds. The trail climbs to a bench above the river and offers dramatic views of Spilt Mountain, the Green River and Cub Creek Valley. Wildlife is often seen along the river, including mule deer and a variety of birds. In the spring, wildflowers may briefly cover the surrounding slopes.
Trail maps of Dinosaur National Monument are available from the park bookstore.
Elevation Change: Approximately 500 feet (152 m)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Type of Trail: Out and back, not a loop. Can be done as a through hike you make arrangements to be picked up at the opposite trailhead.
Trailheads: Split Mountain Campground or Loop A of the Green River Campground
This 1.5 mile (2.4 km) one-way trail follows the Green River, connecting the Green River and Split Mountain Campgrounds. The trail climbs to a bench above the river and offers dramatic views of Spilt Mountain, the Green River and Cub Creek Valley. Wildlife is often seen along the river, including mule deer and a variety of birds. In the spring, wildflowers may briefly cover the surrounding slopes.
Trail maps of Dinosaur National Monument are available from the park bookstore.
Rules and Regulations
- Leashed pets are allowed on this trail. Leashes must be no longer than 6 feet (2 meters) in length. Handlers must clean up and pack out pet waste.
- Carry out all trash.
- Collecting artifacts, fossils, plants, antlers, rocks, 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.
- 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 bear and mountain lion country. Keep small children and pets close.
- All natural areas pose risks. Your safety depends on your own good judgement.
Details
Duration
1-3 Hours
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
Pets Allowed
Yes
This trail is pet-friendly for leashed pets and emotional support animals. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet (2 meters) in length. To avoid dangerous interactions and prevent the spread of disease between species, don’t allow your animals to interact with wildlife or investigate the nests, burrows, remains, or feces of wild animals. Handlers must clean up and pack out all pet waste.
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
Green River and Split Mountain Campgrounds
The River Trail connects the Green River and Split Mountain Campgrounds. In the Green River Campground, the trailhead is located at the northern end of Loop A. In the Split Mountain Campground, the trailhead is located at the southern end of the campground, past the dark sky viewing area, at the back of the loop.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
This narrow gravel and rock trail climbs steeply from each end. The north end includes several rock stairs. The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Leashed pets are allowed on this trail.