Dinosaur tracksite in Colorado home to 1,900 preserved footprints

The Picket Wire Canyonlands are home to the largest dinosaur tracksite in North America, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area.

The site consists of over 1,900 prints in 130 separate trackways across a quarter mile of bedrock along the Purgatoire River, according to the U.S. Forest Service . During the Jurassic period (150 million years ago), the Purgatoire River Valley was part of a shallow lake. Dinosaurs including the Apatosaurus and Allosaurus wandered the area, creating the footprints we see today.

Native Americans also lived in the area and left behind compelling rock art. There are images of deer, elk, humans, and abstract designs along the canyon walls.

The hike to the dinosaur tracks is a long one, at 11.2 miles , and it starts at the Withers Canyon Trailhead. Hikers will descend 250 feet into the canyons and pass the Dolores Mission and Cemetery. The U.S. Forest Service warns hikers and bikers to plan for extreme heat and to leave early with at least one gallon of water per person. And remember, there's ample sun exposure on this hike, too.

That said, hiking is not your only option to see the dinosaur tracks. The Picket Wire Canyonlands Guided Auto Tour is the only authorized motorized access into the canyons. You'll be led by guides who will share "difficult-to-find" dinosaur tracks, rock art, and prehistoric and historic stories. Participants will need their own four-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicles (like trucks or SUVs). All-wheel cars or ATVs are not allowed. The tour lasts from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is offered on Saturdays in May, June, September, and October. Reservations are required.

Find more information about the Picket Wire Canyonlands here .

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