Silver Reef Trail and Red Cliffs Dinosaur Tracksite
Near Washington, Utah
Silver Reef Trail and Red Cliffs Dinosaur Tracksite does not offer reservations through Recreation.gov. Please take a look at the area details below for more information about visiting this location. Enjoy your visit!
Overview
The Red Cliffs Dinosaur Tracksite is located along the Silver Reef Trail in Red Cliffs Campground. From the trailhead near campsite 7 and the restrooms, this short (0.2 mile), single‑track trail leads past marked dinosaur tracks to a viewpoint over the historic Silver Reef geologic formation. Sweeping views of surrounding redrock cliffs accompany interpretive panels that explain the site’s scientific significance and offer guidelines for protecting these fragile fossils.
The trail and trackway lie where the Kayenta Formation transitions into Navajo Sandstone—river-deposited siltstones and mudstones layered with wind-blown sandstone. Tracks were preserved when dinosaurs walked on soft sediments along stream or lake margins during intermittent wetter climates approximately 190 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period. Identified ichnotaxa include Grallator, Kayentapus, and Eubrontes—likely made by bipedal carnivorous theropods such as Megapnosaurus and Dilophosaurus. Additional dinosaur tracks may be seen along the Red Reef East Trail.
Silver Reef was mined for silver hosted in sandstone – a unique occurrence that is historically notable for being the only known silver ore deposit in sandstone.
Hours and Seasons
Open year‑round. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures for short hikes and viewing the tracks, while summer heat can be extreme.
Features and Services
- Access & Parking: The trailhead is inside Red Cliffs Campground. Day‑use fees apply and parking can be limited during peak seasons.
- Cell Service: Variable to limited—do not rely on a consistent signal.
- Toilets: Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.
- Potable water: Potable water is available in the campground.
- Pets: Allowed on leash (6 ft); keep pets off fossil surfaces and follow posted site etiquette.
- Camping: Camping is available only within designated sites within Red Cliffs Campground.
- Nearby Amenities: Services are available in Leeds, Washington City, and St. George (food, fuel, lodging).
Respect and Protect
Dinosaur tracks are trace fossils and protected; viewing and photography are welcome, but removing, casting, or defacing vertebrate fossils is prohibited. Stay on designated trails, follow signs, and practice responsible outdoor ethics.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
The trail is unimproved and has uneven surfaces, slickrock, and a relatively steep climb to the overlook. It is generally not considered wheelchair accessible.
