Vernal offers prehistoric wonders and paranormal thrills for summer travelers

Dinosaur National Monument, Cub Creek Petroglyphs Overview. Photo: Kirsten Kohlwey

VERNAL, Utah — Summer travelers can explore ancient fossils, stargaze under pristine night skies, and encounter paranormal legends in the rugged landscapes of Vernal.

“There is so much to discover in Vernal’s rugged landscape steeped in rich history,” said Lesha Coltharp, director of Uintah County Tourism & Events.

Signature Sites

Dinosaur National Monument

Discover fragments of a long-ago world where the largest land creatures of all time once roamed and died. Experience the “Wall of Bones” fossil quarry, the only place in the world where visitors can view over 1,500 bones located on one mountainside.

International Dark Sky Park

Astrophiles flock to Steinaker State Park, an official International Dark Sky Park located just seven miles north of Vernal. This premier stargazing destination is also an outdoor playground for camping, boating, fishing, and more.

Red Fleet State Park

Newly opened after a multi-million dollar renovation, Red Flled sets under the large red sandstone cliffs that make it known as Little Lake Powell.  Guests will enjoy camping, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, cliff jumping, and mountain biking. Hiking under 200 million-year-old dinosaur tracks is an added bonus.

Skinwalker Ranch

Recognized as the most scientifically studied paranormal hotspot on the planet, Skinwalker Ranch is a 512-acre secure site that has been monitored for decades with armed security and 24-hour surveillance. Located 35 minutes from Vernal and not open to the public, this remote location was involved with a Pentagon-funded black budget project studying UFO activity and is known for studying other intelligences and possible interdimensional phenomena.

UFO Valley Campground

This homestead features elevated views of what some consider the most paranormally-acte spot in the country, if not the world. The property includes a 10-site campground and trail system permitting limited access atop ‘the mesa,’ which legend says was cursed by the Navajo tribe and has since seen countless strange encounters and unexplained anomalies.

Outdoor Recreation

Hiking

Dinoland Trails curates individual trail experiences across Vernal’s expansive landscape. With hundreds of miles of trails winding through breathtaking scenery, paths of all lengths and difficulty levels cater to beginners, families, and experienced hikers year-round.

Biking

Thrill-seekers and casual riders can find their bliss on a mountain bike trail. Enjoy everything from challenging terrains to leisurely single-track trails, including 35 miles of intermediate riding at McCoy Flats.

Rafting

Forty-four miles of the Green River and 71 miles of the Yampa River meander through the heart of Dinosaur National Monument, offering Class I to Class III rapids and an opportunity to explore the area’s rich geological history and formations.

Off-Roading

Jeep, ATV, and OHV tours and excursions abound for exploring Vernal’s diverse, rugged landscapes, from desert expanses to lush, forested trails.

Key events this season include:

• Vernal Rock Rally, June 5–7
• Dirty Dino Gravel Race, June 14
• Freedom Fest, July 4
• Dinah SOAR Days, Aug. 22–24
• PhenomeCon, Sept. 3–6

The Small Town Comeback YouTube docuseries offers a behind-the-scenes look at Vernal’s community spirit and entrepreneurial drive, adding a personal layer to the area’s promotional efforts.

Travel planning resources, including lodging and dining options, are available at dinoland.com.