The Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway is a 480-mile long scenic drive through the western part of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. The byway is named after the rich fossil record of the region and is known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and paleontological significance. The byway passes through several national parks, monuments and state parks, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse array of geological formations, natural landscapes and rich history of the area.
The byway begins in the town of Grand Junction, Colorado, and follows the Colorado River, passing through the Colorado National Monument, which offers spectacular views of the red rock canyons and spires. It continues through the Unaweep Canyon, which is one of the most unique canyons in the world, with two creeks flowing in opposite directions.
As the byway continues through Utah, it passes through the Arches National Park, known for its red rock arches, and the Canyonlands National Park, which offers a diverse array of geological formations and natural landscapes. The byway also passes through the Dinosaur National Monument, which is home to one of the largest concentrations of dinosaur fossils in the world.
The byway continues through the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which offers a variety of recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. It ends in the town of Vernal, Utah, which is known for its rich paleontological history and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the local dinosaur quarry and museum.
The Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities and paleontological significance. Visitors can expect to see a diverse array of geological formations, natural landscapes and rich history of the area. The byway is typically open year-round, but some sections may be closed during the winter or due to inclement weather.