Unearth the secrets of ancient dinosaurs on the Morrison Dino Pass, a private adventure in Colorado’s rich fossil country. Learn from experts and explore hidden fossil sites on this immersive outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with minimal hiking involved; mostly walking on gentle terrain.
Wildlife
History
Morrison is known for its significant Late Jurassic fossil discoveries dating back over 150 million years, shaping much of what we know about dinosaurs in North America.
Conservation
The museum and local authorities work together to protect fossil sites and educate the public on responsible outdoor behavior to preserve these natural treasures.
Morrison Natural History Museum
Unearth the secrets of ancient dinosaurs on the Morrison Dino Pass, a private adventure in Colorado’s rich fossil country. Learn from experts and explore hidden fossil sites on this immersive outdoor experience.
Morrison Natural History Museum, located in Morrison, Colorado, preserves and interprets local and regional paleontology through exhibits, public programs, and field research. The museum offers general admission access to fossil exhibits and ongoing research displays, with expert guides leading visitors through curated specimens and explaining the scientific context.
General admission includes a complimentary audio tour that guides guests through highlights and research stories, and the museum is approximately 25 minutes from downtown Denver, making it accessible for day visitors. Beyond the museum floor, the institution supports hands‑on fieldwork opportunities. One notable program is the Triceratops Gulch Project, a three‑day fossil expedition based in Wyoming that invites participants to engage in active excavation, learn field techniques, and contribute to real paleontological research under professional supervision.
The project emphasizes safety, practical skills, and scientific methods used in digging and documenting fossil finds. The museum collaborates with trained staff and volunteers to maintain exhibits and to run educational programs aimed at a wide audience, from casual visitors to aspiring paleontologists. Programming focuses on clear, evidence-based interpretation of fossils and the processes that preserve them, ensuring visitors encounter accurate scientific information. Accessibility from Denver and the combination of museum exhibits with active field projects make the Morrison Natural History Museum a practical option for visitors seeking both educational exhibits and immersive fossil dig experiences. Educational resources include interpretive signage, specimen labels, and rotating displays that reflect ongoing discoveries and research collaborations. Programs welcome families, students, and adult learners of all experience levels regularly.
Location
Morrison, CO
About 25 minutes from Denver
Triceratops Project
3 days
Hands-on fossil expedition in Wyoming
Guided Tours
Expert Guides
Leads through exhibits and research
Audio Tour
Complimentary
Included with general admission
Reserve general admission for museum exhibits and the complimentary audio tour, or apply for the Triceratops Gulch Project three-day fossil expedition in Wyoming—details and tickets available online.
Bring sturdy walking shoes
Terrain can be uneven near excavation sites, so proper footwear ensures safety and comfort.
Carry water and sun protection
The Colorado sun can be strong, especially during summer months, so hydrate and apply sunscreen.
Respect excavation areas
Avoid touching or removing fossils to preserve the site’s integrity for scientific study and future visitors.
Check weather forecasts
Weather in Morrison can change quickly, so plan accordingly and bring rain gear if needed.
Comfortable hiking shoes
Protect your feet and provide traction on rocky or uneven ground near fossil sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities, especially in warmer months.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Shield yourself from UV rays when exposed to the sun for extended periods.
summer
Layered clothing
Prepare for variable temperatures by dressing in layers you can add or remove as needed.
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